The topic of banning single-use plastics has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on an analysis of past papers and current environmental trends, this issue is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that governments should ban the use of disposable (single-use) plastic items to reduce waste. Others think there are better ways to deal with this issue. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question addresses a critical environmental concern while also testing candidates’ ability to discuss multiple perspectives and form a coherent argument. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
The question presents two contrasting views on addressing the issue of plastic waste:
- Governments should ban single-use plastic items
- There are better alternatives to dealing with plastic waste
Candidates are required to:
- Discuss both viewpoints
- Provide their own opinion
- Support their arguments with relevant examples and explanations
Key points to consider:
- Environmental impact of single-use plastics
- Effectiveness of government bans
- Alternative solutions to reduce plastic waste
- Balanced approach to discussing both sides
- Clear statement of personal opinion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Plastic pollution has become a global crisis, prompting debates on the most effective ways to address this issue. While some advocate for government bans on disposable plastic items, others argue that alternative solutions may be more beneficial. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government bans argue that legislative action is necessary to curb the overwhelming amount of plastic waste generated by single-use items. By prohibiting the production and distribution of disposable plastics, governments can significantly reduce environmental pollution and protect marine ecosystems. Countries like Kenya and Rwanda have already implemented such bans, resulting in cleaner cities and reduced plastic waste in waterways. Moreover, bans can encourage innovation in sustainable packaging alternatives, fostering the growth of eco-friendly industries.
On the other hand, critics of outright bans contend that there are more effective ways to tackle plastic pollution. They argue that bans may lead to unintended consequences, such as the increased production of alternative materials that could have a higher carbon footprint. Instead, they propose a multifaceted approach that includes improved recycling infrastructure, consumer education, and incentives for businesses to adopt sustainable practices. For instance, implementing deposit return schemes for plastic bottles has proven highly effective in countries like Germany, achieving recycling rates of over 90%.
In my opinion, while government bans on single-use plastics can be a powerful tool in combating plastic pollution, they should be part of a comprehensive strategy rather than a standalone solution. I believe that a combination of targeted bans, improved recycling systems, and incentives for sustainable alternatives would be most effective in addressing this complex issue. Governments should focus on banning the most harmful and unnecessary single-use plastics, such as straws and plastic bags, while simultaneously investing in recycling infrastructure and supporting research into biodegradable materials.
In conclusion, addressing plastic pollution requires a nuanced approach that considers both immediate action and long-term sustainability. By combining strategic bans with other environmentally conscious initiatives, we can work towards a future free from the detrimental effects of single-use plastics.
(Word count: 329)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent coherence, cohesion, and lexical resource, warranting a high band score:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-structured, and cohesive devices are used effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “In conclusion”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay showcases a wide range of vocabulary used with flexibility and precision (e.g., “multifaceted approach,” “unintended consequences,” “biodegradable materials”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used accurately and effectively. There is a good mix of simple and compound-complex sentences.
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Critical Thinking: The essay demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the issue, acknowledging the complexity of the problem and proposing a balanced solution.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, the problem of plastic waste has become a big concern for many countries. Some people think governments should ban single-use plastics, while others believe there are better ways to solve this issue. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support banning single-use plastics argue that it’s an effective way to reduce waste quickly. When governments make laws against using disposable plastic items like bags and straws, it forces people and businesses to find alternatives. This can lead to less plastic pollution in our oceans and on land. For example, some countries have already banned plastic bags, and this has helped to reduce litter in their cities.
However, others think there are better solutions to the plastic waste problem. They say that banning plastics might cause other problems, like using more paper, which can also harm the environment. Instead, they suggest improving recycling systems and teaching people how to use less plastic. Another idea is to make companies responsible for the waste their products create, which could encourage them to use more eco-friendly packaging.
Should governments ban the use of single-use plastics? This is a complex question with no easy answer. In my opinion, a combination of different approaches would work best. I think governments should ban some of the most harmful single-use plastics, like plastic bags and straws. But they should also invest in better recycling systems and educate people about reducing plastic use. This way, we can address the problem from multiple angles.
In conclusion, while banning single-use plastics can be helpful, it’s not the only solution to the plastic waste problem. A mix of bans, better recycling, and education is needed to really make a difference in protecting our environment from plastic pollution.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good control of language and addresses the task, placing it in the Band 6-7 range:
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Task Achievement: The essay covers both viewpoints and includes the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be developed more fully with more specific examples.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Some cohesive devices are used, but they could be more varied.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with some attempts at less common words (e.g., “eco-friendly packaging”). However, there is some repetition and the range could be broader.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. There are some minor errors, but they do not impede communication.
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Critical Thinking: The essay shows an understanding of the issue and attempts to provide a balanced view, though the analysis could be deeper.
Key Vocabulary
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Single-use plastics (noun phrase) – /ˈsɪŋɡl juːs ˈplæstɪks/ – Plastic items designed to be used only once before being thrown away or recycled.
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Disposable (adjective) – /dɪˈspəʊzəbl/ – Intended to be used once, or only for a short period of time, before being thrown away.
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Environmental pollution (noun phrase) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl pəˈluːʃn/ – The introduction of harmful materials into the environment.
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Ecosystem (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
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Biodegradable (adjective) – /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.
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Recycling infrastructure (noun phrase) – /riːˈsaɪklɪŋ ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for recycling operations.
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Sustainable practices (noun phrase) – /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈpræktɪsɪz/ – Methods of using a resource so that it is not depleted or permanently damaged.
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Carbon footprint (noun phrase) – /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds emitted due to the consumption of fossil fuels by a particular person, group, or activity.
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Multifaceted approach (noun phrase) – /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd əˈprəʊtʃ/ – A strategy that considers many different aspects or features of a situation or problem.
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Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment.
Should governments enforce a global plastic ban to protect marine life? This question explores a related aspect of the plastic waste issue, focusing specifically on marine ecosystems.
In conclusion, the topic of banning single-use plastics is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Candidates should be prepared to discuss various aspects of this issue, including government interventions, alternative solutions, and the environmental impact of plastic waste. To practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related questions such as:
- Do you think individual actions or government policies are more effective in reducing plastic waste?
- How can developing countries balance economic growth with environmental protection in regards to plastic use?
- Should there be a global ban on plastic products?
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.