Environmental protection has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 over the years. One specific aspect that has gained increased attention is the role of governments in safeguarding endangered species. This topic not only tests candidates’ writing skills but also their awareness of global environmental issues. Based on past exam trends and current environmental concerns, it’s highly likely that questions related to government policies on endangered species protection will continue to appear in future IELTS tests.

Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:

Some people believe that governments should focus on protecting endangered animal species. Others think that there are more important priorities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analysis of the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss arguments supporting government focus on protecting endangered species
2. Present opposing viewpoints that suggest other priorities are more important
3. Provide a personal opinion on the issue

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores to understand how to approach this task effectively.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Environmental conservation has become a pressing global concern, with the protection of endangered species at the forefront of many debates. While some argue that governments should prioritize this issue, others contend that there are more urgent matters to address. In my opinion, while other challenges certainly exist, the preservation of endangered species should be a key focus for governments due to its far-reaching implications.

Those who support government intervention in protecting endangered species often highlight the ecological importance of maintaining biodiversity. Every species plays a crucial role in its ecosystem, and the loss of even one can trigger a domino effect, disrupting entire food chains and habitats. Moreover, many endangered species have potential scientific and medical value that remains undiscovered. By safeguarding these species, we preserve opportunities for future breakthroughs in fields such as medicine and biotechnology.

On the other hand, critics argue that governments face more immediate challenges that demand attention and resources. Issues such as poverty, healthcare, and education are often cited as areas requiring urgent action. These proponents contend that improving human welfare should take precedence over animal conservation efforts. Additionally, some argue that the substantial costs associated with protecting endangered species could be better allocated to address pressing socio-economic issues.

While I acknowledge the importance of addressing immediate human needs, I believe that governments should prioritize the protection of endangered species. This stance is rooted in the understanding that environmental health is inextricably linked to human welfare. Healthy ecosystems provide essential services such as clean air, water purification, and climate regulation, which are fundamental to human survival and prosperity. Furthermore, many communities, particularly in developing countries, rely directly on biodiversity for their livelihoods through activities like ecotourism or sustainable harvesting.

Governments can and should adopt a balanced approach that addresses both human needs and environmental conservation. By implementing stricter policies to protect endangered species, such as harsher penalties for poaching and increased funding for conservation efforts, governments can safeguard biodiversity while also creating jobs in the environmental sector. Moreover, investing in education about the importance of biodiversity can foster a sense of environmental stewardship among citizens, leading to more sustainable practices in the long term.

In conclusion, while there are undoubtedly many pressing issues that governments must address, the protection of endangered species should be a top priority. The far-reaching benefits of preserving biodiversity extend beyond mere animal welfare, impacting human health, economic stability, and the planet’s overall well-being. By taking decisive action now, governments can ensure a more sustainable and prosperous future for both wildlife and humanity.

(Word count: 420)

Government policy on endangered species protection

Explanation of Band 8-9 Score

This essay demonstrates several key qualities that contribute to a high band score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and providing a clear personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Transitions between ideas are smooth, and paragraphs are logically connected.

3. Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “biodiversity,” “ecosystem,” and “environmental stewardship.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors, showcasing advanced grammar usage.

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the topic.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Many people think that governments should focus on protecting endangered animals, while others believe there are more important things to deal with. In my opinion, both views have some truth, but I think protecting endangered species should be a priority for governments.

People who support protecting endangered animals often say it’s important for the environment. When animals become extinct, it can cause problems for other plants and animals in nature. Also, some endangered animals might have special qualities that could be useful for medicine or science in the future. If we don’t protect them now, we might lose these benefits forever.

On the other hand, some people think governments should focus on other issues first. They say problems like poverty, healthcare, and education are more urgent because they affect people’s lives directly. These issues need a lot of money and attention from the government, and some people think it’s more important to help humans than animals.

I understand both sides, but I believe protecting endangered species is very important. Even though helping people is crucial, we need to remember that humans are part of nature too. If we don’t take care of the environment and animals, it will eventually harm us as well. Many people depend on nature for their jobs and food, so protecting animals can also help protect people’s livelihoods.

Governments can try to balance both human needs and animal protection. They can make stricter laws against hunting endangered animals and give more money to protect natural habitats. At the same time, they can work on solving other problems like poverty and healthcare. By educating people about why animals are important, governments can help everyone understand why we need to protect endangered species.

In conclusion, while there are many important issues for governments to address, I believe protecting endangered species should be a high priority. It’s not just about saving animals, but about maintaining a healthy planet for everyone. If we take action now to protect endangered species, it will benefit both animals and humans in the long run.

(Word count: 339)

Conservation efforts for endangered species

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates qualities that would typically earn a Band 6-7 score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the question, presenting both viewpoints and offering a personal opinion. However, the development of ideas is less comprehensive than in the Band 8-9 essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. However, the transitions between ideas could be smoother, and some paragraphs could be more fully developed.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is generally appropriate and related to the topic. However, it lacks the sophistication and range seen in higher band scores.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.

5. Development of Ideas: While the main points are presented, they could be elaborated on more fully with more specific examples or deeper analysis.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat
2. Ecosystem (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
3. Conservation (noun) – /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – the protection of plants, animals, and natural areas
4. Extinction (noun) – /ɪkˈstɪŋkʃn/ – the state or process of a species ceasing to exist
5. Habitat (noun) – /ˈhæbɪtæt/ – the natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism
6. Poaching (noun) – /ˈpəʊtʃɪŋ/ – the illegal practice of hunting or catching wild animals
7. Stewardship (noun) – /ˈstjuːədʃɪp/ – the job of supervising or taking care of something, such as an organization or property
8. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
9. Ecotourism (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊˌtʊərɪzəm/ – tourism directed toward exotic, often threatened, natural environments to support conservation efforts and observe wildlife
10. Biodegradable (adjective) – /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms

Should governments impose stricter penalties for environmental pollution is another related topic that often appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. Understanding the connection between species protection and pollution control can help you develop more comprehensive arguments in your essays.

Conclusion

The protection of endangered species is a critical issue that is likely to continue appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on this topic, focusing on developing well-structured arguments, using appropriate vocabulary, and providing relevant examples. Remember to always address all parts of the question and provide a clear personal opinion.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The role of international cooperation in protecting endangered species
2. The impact of climate change on biodiversity
3. Balancing economic development with environmental conservation

We encourage you to write your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section. This practice will help you improve your writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.