The topic of renewable energy versus fossil fuels is a highly relevant and frequently occurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject is likely to appear in future tests due to its global significance. Let’s examine a specific question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that the government should invest more money in renewable energy sources as an alternative to fossil fuels, while others think that this money can be spent on other things. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for investing in renewable energy
- Present reasons why the money could be spent elsewhere
- Provide a personal opinion on the issue
Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, followed by detailed analyses.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Renewable energy has become a pressing concern in recent years, with many advocating for increased government investment in this sector. While there are valid arguments for both sides, I firmly believe that prioritizing renewable energy sources is crucial for our future.
Proponents of renewable energy investment argue that it is essential for combating climate change and ensuring long-term energy security. By shifting away from fossil fuels, we can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the devastating effects of global warming. Moreover, renewable sources like solar and wind power are inexhaustible, unlike finite fossil fuel reserves. This transition would not only benefit the environment but also create new jobs and stimulate economic growth in the green energy sector.
Renewable Energy Sources
On the other hand, critics contend that government funds could be better allocated to more immediate concerns such as healthcare, education, or infrastructure development. They argue that renewable energy technology is still developing and may not be cost-effective in the short term. Additionally, some believe that the private sector should drive innovation in this field, rather than relying on government subsidies.
In my opinion, while other areas of public spending are undoubtedly important, the urgency of addressing climate change cannot be overstated. The long-term benefits of investing in renewable energy far outweigh the short-term costs. Governments have a responsibility to lead the transition to sustainable energy sources, as the private sector may not have sufficient incentives to do so rapidly enough. Furthermore, investments in renewable energy can complement other areas of development, such as creating green jobs and improving public health through reduced pollution.
In conclusion, while there are valid arguments for alternative spending priorities, I strongly believe that government investment in renewable energy is crucial for our planet’s future. The potential benefits in terms of environmental protection, energy security, and economic growth make it a worthwhile and necessary investment.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis for Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that warrant a high band score:
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating a personal opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “greenhouse gas emissions” and “energy security.”
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors.
Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Many people think the government should spend more money on renewable energy instead of fossil fuels, but others believe this money can be used for other things. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, investing in renewable energy is important because it can help protect the environment. Fossil fuels cause pollution and contribute to global warming, so using more renewable energy like solar and wind power can reduce these problems. Also, renewable energy sources will not run out, unlike oil and coal. This investment could create new jobs in the green energy industry too.
Fossil Fuel Pollution
On the other hand, some people think the government should spend money on other things that are more important right now. For example, improving healthcare and education might be seen as more urgent. They might also say that renewable energy technology is still expensive and not ready to replace fossil fuels completely.
In my opinion, I think the government should invest more in renewable energy. Even though other issues are important, climate change is a big problem that affects everyone. If we don’t act now, it might be too late in the future. Also, investing in renewable energy can help solve other problems too, like creating jobs and reducing air pollution which is good for people’s health.
In conclusion, while there are arguments for spending money on other things, I believe investing in renewable energy is very important for our future. It can help protect the environment and create new opportunities for people.
(Word count: 262)
Analysis for Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates qualities that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the discussion of views and personal opinion could be more developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited.
Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but it lacks the sophistication seen in higher band scores.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with some errors that do not impede communication.
Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly but could be elaborated upon further with more specific examples or details.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Renewable energy (n.) – /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used
- Fossil fuels (n.) – /ˈfɒsəl fjuːəlz/ – Fuels formed by natural processes like anaerobic decomposition of buried dead organisms
- Climate change (n.) – /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/ – Long-term alteration in Earth’s climate and weather patterns
- Greenhouse gas emissions (n.) – /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ɡæs ɪˈmɪʃənz/ – Release of gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect
- Energy security (n.) – /ˈenədʒi sɪˈkjʊərəti/ – Assured access to reliable energy sources
- Sustainable (adj.) – /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Infrastructure (n.) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – Basic physical and organizational structures needed for operation of a society
- Mitigation (n.) – /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/ – The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something
- Innovation (n.) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The action or process of innovating, introducing new ideas or methods
- Inexhaustible (adj.) – /ˌɪnɪɡˈzɔːstəbəl/ – Unable to be used up or emptied; not able to be exhausted
Conclusion
The topic of renewable energy versus fossil fuels is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Other potential questions might include:
- Discussing the role of individuals versus governments in promoting renewable energy use
- Examining the economic impacts of transitioning to renewable energy sources
- Analyzing the challenges and benefits of implementing renewable energy in developing countries
To practice, try writing your own essay on one of these topics or the main question discussed in this article. Share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills.
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