The topic of banning single-use plastics has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past exams and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that governments should ban single-use plastics to reduce waste. Others believe there are better ways to deal with this problem. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to discuss two contrasting views on addressing the issue of plastic waste:
- Governments should ban single-use plastics
- There are better alternatives to tackle the problem
Candidates must explore both perspectives and provide their own stance on the matter. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Environmental conservation has become a pressing global concern, with plastic pollution at the forefront of many discussions. While some advocate for government intervention through banning single-use plastics, others argue for alternative solutions. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective.
Proponents of government bans on single-use plastics argue that such measures are necessary to curb the devastating environmental impact of these products. They contend that should single-use plastic be banned worldwide, it would force industries to develop more sustainable alternatives and encourage consumers to adopt eco-friendly habits. For instance, countries like Kenya and Rwanda have successfully implemented plastic bag bans, significantly reducing plastic waste and promoting the use of reusable bags.
On the other hand, critics of outright bans suggest that there are more effective ways to address the plastic waste problem. They argue that bans may lead to unintended consequences, such as the increased production of alternative materials that could have their own environmental drawbacks. Instead, they propose solutions like improved recycling infrastructure, incentives for eco-friendly packaging, and public education campaigns to raise awareness about responsible consumption. These measures, they claim, would foster a more sustainable approach without disrupting economic activities dependent on plastic production.
In my opinion, while government bans on single-use plastics can be effective in certain contexts, a comprehensive approach that combines various strategies would be more beneficial. I believe that global initiatives to ban single-use plastics should be implemented gradually, alongside investments in recycling technology, research into biodegradable materials, and extensive public education programs. This multi-faceted approach would address the root causes of plastic pollution while allowing for a smoother transition to more sustainable practices.
In conclusion, the debate over banning single-use plastics highlights the complexity of environmental issues. While government intervention through bans can yield quick results, a balanced strategy that incorporates alternative solutions is likely to be more effective and sustainable in the long run. Ultimately, tackling plastic pollution requires a collaborative effort from governments, industries, and individuals to create lasting change.
(Word count: 345)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay achieves a high band score for several reasons:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s own opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively.
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Lexical Resource: The essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “environmental conservation,” “devastating environmental impact,” “unintended consequences”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately, with only minor errors that do not impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
The issue of plastic waste has become a big problem in many countries. Some people think the government should ban single-use plastics, while others believe there are better ways to solve this problem. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support banning single-use plastics say it’s necessary to protect the environment. They argue that should governments ban single-use plastics, it would force companies to find better alternatives and make people use more eco-friendly products. For example, some countries have already banned plastic bags, which has helped reduce plastic waste in those places.
However, other people think there are better solutions than banning plastics. They say that bans might cause problems for businesses and could lead to the use of other materials that might be just as bad for the environment. Instead, they suggest improving recycling systems, encouraging companies to use less packaging, and teaching people about the importance of reducing waste. These methods, they believe, would be more effective in the long run.
In my opinion, I think a combination of both approaches would work best. While banning some single-use plastics might be necessary, it’s also important to focus on other solutions like better recycling and education. This way, we can reduce plastic waste without causing too many problems for businesses and people.
To conclude, the problem of plastic waste is complex and requires different solutions. While banning single-use plastics can help, it’s important to also consider other methods to create a more sustainable future.
(Word count: 275)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay achieves a band score of 6-7 for the following reasons:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and presenting the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be developed further.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated compared to the band 8-9 essay.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary, but lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some errors that do not impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly but could be elaborated on more fully with additional examples or explanations.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Single-use plastics (noun): Plastic items intended to be used only once before being thrown away.
Pronunciation: /ˈsɪŋɡəl juːz ˈplæstɪks/ -
Environmental conservation (noun phrase): The protection and preservation of the natural environment.
Pronunciation: /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ -
Sustainable (adjective): Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.
Pronunciation: /səˈsteɪnəbl/ -
Eco-friendly (adjective): Not harmful to the environment.
Pronunciation: /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ -
Biodegradable (adjective): Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.
Pronunciation: /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ -
Recycling infrastructure (noun phrase): The systems and facilities needed for collecting and processing materials for reuse.
Pronunciation: /riːˈsaɪklɪŋ ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ -
Unintended consequences (noun phrase): Unforeseen outcomes that occur as a result of a particular action or policy.
Pronunciation: /ˌʌnɪnˈtendɪd ˈkɒnsɪkwənsɪz/ -
Public education campaigns (noun phrase): Organized efforts to inform and educate the general public about a specific issue.
Pronunciation: /ˈpʌblɪk ˌedjʊˈkeɪʃn kæmˈpeɪnz/ -
Multi-faceted approach (noun phrase): A strategy that considers multiple aspects or perspectives of an issue.
Pronunciation: /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd əˈprəʊtʃ/ -
Collaborative effort (noun phrase): Work done by multiple parties working together towards a common goal.
Pronunciation: /kəˈlæbərətɪv ˈefət/
Conclusion
The topic of banning single-use plastics is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Why countries should ban single-use plastics is a complex issue that allows for diverse perspectives, making it an ideal subject for testing candidates’ ability to analyze, discuss, and present arguments.
To prepare for similar questions, consider practicing with these potential topics:
- The effectiveness of plastic bag taxes versus outright bans
- The role of individual responsibility in reducing plastic waste
- The impact of plastic bans on developing countries’ economies
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about having strong opinions, but being able to express them clearly, coherently, and with well-developed arguments. Practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS aspirants.