The topic of encouraging people to use electric vehicles has become increasingly relevant in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. As environmental concerns grow globally, this subject is likely to appear more frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a real IELTS question on this topic and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Electric vehicles in a modern city

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that governments should encourage people to use electric vehicles to reduce pollution. Others think there are better ways to combat pollution. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that governments should encourage electric vehicle use
2. Explore alternative methods to combat pollution
3. Provide your personal opinion on the matter

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.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In recent years, the debate over how to effectively reduce pollution has intensified, with some advocating for government promotion of electric vehicles while others argue for alternative solutions. This essay will examine both perspectives and argue that while electric vehicles are a significant part of the solution, a multi-faceted approach is necessary for meaningful pollution reduction.

Proponents of electric vehicle encouragement argue that widespread adoption of these vehicles could dramatically decrease air pollution in urban areas. Electric vehicles produce zero direct emissions, potentially leading to cleaner air and improved public health in cities plagued by smog and particulate matter. Furthermore, as electricity grids increasingly incorporate renewable energy sources, the overall carbon footprint of electric vehicles continues to decrease. Government incentives such as tax breaks or subsidies could accelerate this transition, making electric vehicles more accessible to the general public.

However, critics contend that there are more effective ways to combat pollution. They argue that focusing solely on personal vehicles ignores other significant sources of pollution, such as industry and agriculture. Instead, they propose comprehensive strategies such as improving public transportation systems, implementing stricter industrial emissions regulations, and investing in green technologies across all sectors. These approaches, they claim, would address pollution more holistically and potentially yield faster results.

In my opinion, the most effective strategy lies in combining these approaches. While encouraging electric vehicle adoption is undoubtedly beneficial, it should be part of a broader, multi-pronged effort to reduce pollution. Governments should indeed offer incentives for electric vehicles, but simultaneously invest in public transportation, enforce stricter emissions standards for industries, and promote renewable energy sources. This comprehensive approach would address pollution from multiple angles, maximizing the potential for significant environmental improvements.

In conclusion, while encouraging electric vehicle use is a valuable step towards reducing pollution, it should not be viewed as a panacea. A truly effective strategy must encompass a wide range of measures, targeting various sources of pollution. By adopting this holistic approach, societies can work towards cleaner, healthier environments for future generations.

(Word count: 309)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. Ideas flow logically, and cohesive devices are used effectively.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Examples include “multi-faceted approach,” “zero direct emissions,” and “comprehensive strategies.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. Sentences are well-formed and error-free.

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Nowadays, pollution is a big problem in many countries. Some people think governments should encourage people to use electric cars to reduce pollution. Others believe there are better ways to solve this issue. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Those who support electric cars say they are good for the environment because they don’t produce harmful gases. When many people use electric cars, the air in cities can become cleaner. Governments can help by giving people money to buy electric cars or making special parking spaces for them. This could make more people want to buy electric cars.

On the other hand, some people think there are better ways to fight pollution. They say that electric cars are expensive and not everyone can afford them. Instead, they suggest improving public transport like buses and trains. This could help more people and reduce the number of cars on the roads. They also think factories should be made to follow stricter rules about pollution.

In my opinion, both ideas are important for reducing pollution. I think governments should encourage electric cars, but also work on other solutions at the same time. Improving public transport and making stricter rules for factories are also good ideas. By doing all of these things together, we can make a bigger difference in reducing pollution.

To conclude, while electric cars are helpful in reducing pollution, they are not the only solution. A combination of different methods, including better public transport and stricter rules for factories, along with encouraging electric cars, is the best way to tackle pollution problems.

(Word count: 270)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates competence but has some limitations:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is organized with clear paragraphing, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with generally good control of grammar.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant but less fully extended and supported compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Electric vehicles (noun) – /ɪˈlektrɪk ˈviːəkəlz/ – Cars powered by electricity
2. Pollution (noun) – /pəˈluːʃən/ – The presence of harmful substances in the environment
3. Emissions (noun) – /ɪˈmɪʃənz/ – The production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation
4. Incentives (noun) – /ɪnˈsentɪvz/ – Things that motivate or encourage someone to do something
5. Multi-faceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features
6. Holistic (adjective) – /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected
7. Comprehensive (adjective) – /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something
8. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
9. Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
10. Renewable energy (noun phrase) – /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power

Conclusion

The topic of encouraging electric vehicle use to combat pollution is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The role of public transportation in reducing air pollution
2. Government policies to promote sustainable living in urban areas
3. The impact of individual actions on environmental conservation

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and fully address all parts of the question. Practice by writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare you for success in the exam.