The topic of government plastic bans has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. As environmental concerns continue to grow globally, this subject is likely to appear more frequently in future tests. To help you prepare, let’s analyze a relevant question and explore sample essays across different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people think that governments should ban the use of disposable plastic products to reduce waste. Others believe that people should have the freedom to choose what products they use. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss arguments for government bans on disposable plastic products
- Discuss arguments against such bans (in favor of consumer choice)
- Provide your own opinion on the issue
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-scoring example.
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
The proliferation of plastic waste has become a global environmental crisis, prompting debates on whether governments should intervene by banning disposable plastic products. While some argue for such bans to curb pollution, others contend that consumer choice should be preserved. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government bans on disposable plastics argue that such measures are necessary to address the urgent environmental challenges posed by plastic pollution. They contend that voluntary efforts have proven insufficient, and only stringent regulations can effectively reduce plastic waste. For instance, countries like Kenya and Rwanda have implemented comprehensive plastic bag bans, resulting in significant reductions in plastic litter and improvements in environmental quality. Furthermore, advocates argue that bans can stimulate innovation in eco-friendly alternatives, fostering a more sustainable economy.
On the other hand, opponents of plastic bans emphasize the importance of individual freedom and consumer choice. They argue that people should have the right to decide which products to use based on their preferences and needs. Critics also point out that plastic products often serve important functions, such as preserving food and reducing food waste, which could be compromised by blanket bans. Additionally, they contend that education and incentives for responsible consumption and recycling might be more effective and less disruptive than outright prohibitions.
In my opinion, while I acknowledge the value of consumer choice, the severity of the plastic pollution crisis necessitates strong government action, including targeted bans on the most harmful disposable plastic products. However, I believe that such bans should be implemented gradually and in conjunction with public education campaigns and support for sustainable alternatives. This balanced approach would allow for a transition period, minimizing disruption while still addressing the urgent need to reduce plastic waste.
In conclusion, the debate over government bans on disposable plastics highlights the tension between environmental protection and individual freedom. While both sides present valid arguments, I believe that carefully crafted and phased plastic bans, combined with educational initiatives, offer the most promising path forward in tackling this critical environmental issue.
(Word count: 329)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a high band score:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s own opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Furthermore,” “In conclusion”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “proliferation,” “stringent regulations,” “comprehensive,” “fostering”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional structures).
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Plastic pollution is a big problem in the world today. Some people think governments should ban disposable plastic products to reduce waste, while others believe people should be free to choose what they use. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
There are good reasons why governments might want to ban disposable plastics. Firstly, plastic waste is causing a lot of damage to the environment, especially in oceans and rivers. Banning these products could help reduce this pollution quickly. Secondly, bans can encourage companies to develop more environmentally friendly alternatives. For example, when some countries banned plastic bags, many shops started offering reusable bags made from cloth or other materials.
However, some people argue that banning plastics takes away people’s freedom to choose. They say that individuals should be able to decide for themselves what products to use. Also, plastic products can be very useful in some situations, like keeping food fresh for longer. Some people worry that banning plastics might cause problems in these areas.
In my opinion, I think governments should take some action to reduce plastic waste, but complete bans might be too extreme. Instead, they could start by banning the most harmful types of plastic, like single-use bags and straws. At the same time, they should educate people about the problems of plastic waste and encourage recycling. This way, we can reduce plastic pollution while still giving people some choice.
To conclude, while plastic bans can help reduce pollution, they also limit personal freedom. I believe a balanced approach, combining some restrictions with education and encouragement of alternatives, is the best way to address this problem.
(Word count: 283)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a mid-range band score:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the development of ideas is less thorough than in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (e.g., frequent use of “Firstly,” “Secondly,” “However”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay (e.g., “big problem,” “good reasons,” “take some action”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences but with less flexibility and range than the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Proliferation (noun) – /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/ – rapid increase in the number or amount of something
- Stringent (adjective) – /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – strict, severe, or restrictive
- Comprehensive (adjective) – /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete; including all or nearly all elements or aspects of something
- Foster (verb) – /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – encourage or promote the development of something
- Incentive (noun) – /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – a thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something
- Blanket (adjective) – /ˈblæŋkɪt/ – covering all cases or instances; total and inclusive
- Necessitate (verb) – /nəˈsesɪteɪt/ – make necessary as a result or consequence
- Phased (adjective) – /feɪzd/ – carried out in gradual stages
- Disruptive (adjective) – /dɪsˈrʌptɪv/ – causing disturbance or problems
- Crucial (adjective) – /ˈkruːʃl/ – decisive or critical, especially in the success or failure of something
Conclusion
The topic of government plastic bans is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare, practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The effectiveness of plastic taxes versus plastic bans
- The role of individuals versus governments in reducing plastic pollution
- The impact of plastic bans on developing countries
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and fully address all parts of the question. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.