Renewable energy technologies have become a hot topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. The question of whether governments should invest in these technologies frequently appears in exams, reflecting its relevance in today’s world. Based on past trends and current global focus on sustainable development, we can expect this theme to continue featuring prominently in future IELTS tests.
Let’s examine a typical question on this subject:
Some people think that governments should invest in developing renewable energy technologies. Others believe that the money should be spent on other priorities. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents a balanced argument, asking candidates to discuss two opposing viewpoints:
- Governments should invest in renewable energy technologies
- Governments should prioritize spending on other areas
The task requires you to:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Provide your own opinion
- Support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-band response.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, the debate over government investment in renewable energy technologies has intensified. While some argue that such investments are crucial for a sustainable future, others contend that public funds should be allocated to more immediate concerns. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.
Proponents of government investment in renewable energy argue that it is essential for combating climate change and ensuring long-term energy security. They contend that public funding can accelerate the development and adoption of clean energy technologies, making them more affordable and accessible to the general population. For instance, Germany’s substantial investment in solar and wind power has significantly reduced its reliance on fossil fuels and positioned it as a global leader in renewable energy. Moreover, such investments can create new jobs and stimulate economic growth in the green technology sector.
On the other hand, critics argue that governments have more pressing priorities that require immediate attention and financial resources. They point to issues such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure as areas that demand urgent investment to improve citizens’ quality of life. For example, in developing countries, allocating funds to build hospitals and schools may have a more immediate and tangible impact on people’s lives than investing in renewable energy research. Additionally, some argue that the private sector is better equipped to drive innovation in energy technologies and that government intervention may distort market forces.
In my opinion, while other priorities are undoubtedly important, government investment in renewable energy technologies is crucial for ensuring a sustainable future. The long-term benefits of transitioning to clean energy sources far outweigh the short-term costs. Governments can strike a balance by gradually increasing investments in renewable energy while maintaining funding for other essential services. Moreover, public-private partnerships can be leveraged to maximize the efficiency of these investments and foster innovation.
In conclusion, while the debate over government spending priorities is complex, I believe that investing in renewable energy technologies is not only environmentally responsible but also economically prudent in the long run. By taking a balanced approach and collaborating with the private sector, governments can address immediate societal needs while simultaneously laying the groundwork for a sustainable energy future.
(Word count: 345)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that align with Band 8-9 criteria:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. It uses cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “In conclusion”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control (e.g., “intensified,” “contend,” “accelerate,” “tangible impact”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are handled with confidence.
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Examples and Support: The essay provides specific, relevant examples to support arguments (e.g., Germany’s investment in renewable energy).
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Critical Thinking: The writer demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the issue, acknowledging the complexity of the debate and suggesting a balanced approach.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
These days, there is a lot of discussion about whether governments should spend money on renewable energy technologies or focus on other important areas. This essay will look at both sides of this argument and give my opinion.
Some people think that governments should invest in renewable energy. They say that this is important for protecting the environment and reducing pollution. For example, if we use more solar and wind power, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels that cause air pollution. Also, investing in these technologies can create new jobs and help the economy grow in the long term.
However, others believe that there are more important things that need government money. They argue that issues like healthcare, education, and poverty are more urgent. For instance, in some countries, many people don’t have access to good hospitals or schools, and the government should focus on these problems first. They also say that private companies can develop renewable energy without government help.
In my opinion, I think governments should invest in renewable energy, but they should also balance this with other important needs. Renewable energy is crucial for our future, but we can’t ignore immediate problems that affect people’s lives. Governments could start with small investments in renewable energy and gradually increase them over time.
To conclude, while there are different views on this topic, I believe that investing in renewable energy is important, but it should be done carefully alongside other priorities. Governments need to find a way to support renewable energy without neglecting other essential areas.
(Word count: 263)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates qualities that align with Band 6-7 criteria:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both viewpoints and the writer’s opinion. However, the development of ideas is less thorough compared to 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 “also” and “however”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but lacks the sophistication and precision of higher band scores. Some attempts at less common vocabulary are present (e.g., “dependence,” “crucial”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are fewer complex structures compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Examples and Support: The essay provides some examples, but they are more general and less specific compared to the higher band essay.
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Critical Thinking: The writer presents a balanced view but with less nuance and depth compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
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Investment (noun) /ɪnˈvestmənt/: The action of investing money for profit or material result.
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Climate change (noun) /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/: Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns.
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Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/: The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: The action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
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Prioritize (verb) /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/: Designate or treat (something) as more important than other things.
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Transition (noun) /trænˈzɪʃn/: The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.
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Public-private partnership (noun) /ˌpʌblɪk ˈpraɪvət ˈpɑːtnəʃɪp/: A cooperation between government and private sector companies.
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Fossil fuels (noun) /ˈfɒsl fjuːəlz/: A natural fuel such as coal or gas, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms.
Conclusion
The topic of government investment in renewable energy technologies is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of individuals vs. governments in addressing climate change
- The economic impact of transitioning to renewable energy sources
- Balancing environmental concerns with economic growth
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about memorizing sample essays, but understanding how to structure your arguments, use appropriate vocabulary, and express your ideas clearly and coherently. Practice writing your own essays and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.