The topic of prohibiting single-use plastics globally has gained significant attention in recent years due to growing environmental concerns. This issue has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, reflecting its relevance in contemporary debates. Based on past exam trends and current global discussions, it’s highly likely that this topic will continue to feature in future IELTS tests.

Let’s examine a sample question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams:

Some people believe that single-use plastics should be banned worldwide to protect the environment. Others argue that such a ban would be impractical and economically damaging. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss arguments for banning single-use plastics globally
2. Explore reasons against such a ban
3. Present their own 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, starting with a Band 8 essay.

Band 8 Essay Sample

The global proliferation of single-use plastics has become a pressing environmental concern, prompting debates about whether these items should be prohibited worldwide. While some argue for a complete ban to protect the environment, others contend that such a measure would be impractical and economically detrimental. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Proponents of a global ban on single-use plastics argue that such a measure is necessary to combat the devastating environmental impact of these products. Plastic pollution has reached alarming levels in our oceans, harming marine life and ecosystems. Moreover, the production and disposal of single-use plastics contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change. A worldwide prohibition could dramatically reduce plastic waste and encourage the development of more sustainable alternatives, ultimately benefiting the planet’s health.

On the other hand, opponents of a blanket ban highlight the practical challenges and potential economic repercussions. Many industries rely heavily on single-use plastics for packaging, hygiene, and convenience. A sudden, global ban could disrupt supply chains, increase costs for businesses and consumers, and potentially lead to job losses in plastic-related industries. Furthermore, in some contexts, such as medical settings, single-use plastics play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of infections.

In my opinion, while the environmental benefits of banning single-use plastics are undeniable, an immediate, global prohibition may indeed be impractical. Instead, I believe a more nuanced approach is necessary. Governments should implement phased reduction plans, gradually tightening regulations on single-use plastics while simultaneously investing in research and development of eco-friendly alternatives. This approach would allow industries time to adapt, mitigate economic impacts, and ensure that suitable replacements are available for essential uses.

In conclusion, addressing the issue of single-use plastics requires a balanced approach that considers both environmental imperatives and practical realities. By combining gradual restrictions with innovation and public education, we can work towards significantly reducing plastic pollution without causing undue economic disruption.

IELTS Writing Task 2 essay on single-use plastics

Band 8 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates several key features of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:

1. Clear structure: The essay has a well-defined introduction, body paragraphs addressing both views, and a conclusion with the writer’s opinion.

2. Balanced argument: It presents both sides of the debate fairly before offering a nuanced personal view.

3. Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow logically, with effective use of linking words and phrases.

4. Lexical resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary accurately (e.g., “proliferation,” “exacerbating,” “nuanced approach”).

5. Grammatical range and accuracy: It uses a variety of complex structures correctly.

6. Task response: All parts of the question are fully addressed, including the writer’s opinion.

Band 7 Essay Sample

The use of single-use plastics has become a contentious issue worldwide due to its environmental impact. While some advocate for a global ban to protect our planet, others argue that such a measure would be impractical and economically harmful. This essay will discuss both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective.

Those in favor of prohibiting single-use plastics globally argue that this action is necessary to combat pollution and protect wildlife. Plastic waste has become a significant problem in our oceans, harming marine animals and ecosystems. Additionally, the production of these plastics contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, worsening climate change. Supporters believe that a worldwide ban would force industries to develop more environmentally friendly alternatives, leading to a cleaner planet.

On the other hand, opponents of a global ban point out the practical difficulties and potential economic consequences. Many industries rely heavily on single-use plastics for packaging and hygiene purposes. A sudden ban could lead to increased costs for businesses and consumers, potentially causing job losses in plastic-related sectors. Moreover, in some areas, such as healthcare, single-use plastics play a crucial role in maintaining sterility and preventing infections.

In my opinion, while the environmental benefits of reducing single-use plastics are clear, an immediate global ban may be too drastic. I believe a gradual approach would be more effective. Governments should implement step-by-step plans to reduce plastic use, while also investing in research for sustainable alternatives. This would allow industries time to adapt and minimize economic disruption.

To conclude, addressing the issue of single-use plastics requires a balanced approach that considers both environmental needs and economic realities. By combining gradual restrictions with innovation and public awareness campaigns, we can work towards reducing plastic pollution without causing unnecessary economic hardship.

Band 7 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates several qualities of a Band 7 response:

1. Task achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and offering a personal opinion.

2. Coherence and cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay.

3. Lexical resource: There is a good range of vocabulary, though not as sophisticated as the Band 8 essay (e.g., “contentious,” “advocate,” “perspective”).

4. Grammatical range and accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control.

5. Structure: The essay follows a clear four-paragraph structure, which is appropriate for IELTS Writing Task 2.

While this essay is well-written, it lacks some of the nuance and depth found in the Band 8 essay. The arguments, while valid, are not as fully developed, and the language, while good, is not as varied or precise.

Band 6 Essay Sample

Nowadays, there is a big debate about whether single-use plastics should be banned all over the world. Some people think this is necessary to save the environment, but others say it would cause too many problems. In this essay, I will look at both sides and give my opinion.

People who want to ban single-use plastics say it’s important for protecting nature. There is a lot of plastic waste in the oceans, which is bad for fish and other sea animals. Also, making plastic creates pollution that contributes to global warming. They believe that if we stop using these plastics, companies will have to make better products that don’t harm the environment.

However, people against the ban say it would be very difficult to do and could hurt the economy. Many businesses use single-use plastics for packaging and other things. If we suddenly ban them, it could make products more expensive and some people might lose their jobs. Also, in some places like hospitals, single-use plastics are important for keeping things clean and safe.

In my opinion, I think banning all single-use plastics right away might be too difficult. Instead, I believe we should slowly reduce their use over time. Governments should make rules to use less plastic bit by bit, and also help companies find new ways to package things that are better for the environment. This way, we can help the planet without causing too many problems for businesses and people.

To sum up, the issue of single-use plastics is complicated. While it’s important to protect the environment, we also need to think about the practical problems of banning these plastics. By making changes slowly and finding new solutions, we can reduce plastic pollution without causing too much trouble for the economy.

Band 6 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates several characteristics of a Band 6 response:

1. Task achievement: The essay addresses the task, presenting both views and offering an opinion. However, the ideas are not as fully developed as in higher band scores.

2. Coherence and cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the linking of ideas is not as smooth as in higher band essays.

3. Lexical resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but lacks the range and precision seen in Band 7 and 8 essays. There is some repetition (e.g., frequent use of “plastic” and “ban”).

4. Grammatical range and accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and some complex sentences, but with less variety and control than higher band essays.

5. Paragraph structure: The essay follows a basic four-paragraph structure, which is appropriate for the task.

This essay presents relevant ideas but lacks the depth and sophistication of higher band essays. The language is simpler and more repetitive, and the arguments are not as nuanced or well-developed.

Key Vocabulary for this Topic

1. Single-use plastics (noun phrase): Plastic items designed to be used once and then discarded.
   Pronunciation: /ˈsɪŋɡəl juːs ˈplæstɪks/

2. Prohibition (noun): The act of forbidding something by law.
   Pronunciation: /ˌprəʊɪˈbɪʃən/

3. Environmental impact (noun phrase): The effect of human activities on the natural world.
   Pronunciation: /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈɪmpækt/

4. Sustainable alternatives (noun phrase): Products or practices that can be maintained without depleting natural resources.
   Pronunciation: /səˈsteɪnəbl ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪvz/

5. Phased reduction (noun phrase): A gradual decrease implemented in stages.
   Pronunciation: /feɪzd rɪˈdʌkʃən/

6. Economic repercussions (noun phrase): The financial or economic consequences of an action.
   Pronunciation: /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˌriːpəˈkʌʃənz/

7. Ecosystem (noun): A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
   Pronunciation: /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/

8. Biodegradable (adjective): Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.
   Pronunciation: /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/

9. Circular economy (noun phrase): An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and continual use of resources.
   Pronunciation: /ˈsɜːkjʊlər ɪˈkɒnəmi/

10. Waste management (noun phrase): The collection, transportation, and disposal of garbage, sewage, and other waste products.
    Pronunciation: /weɪst ˈmænɪdʒmənt/

In conclusion, the topic of prohibiting single-use plastics globally is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. The sample essays provided demonstrate how to approach this topic at different band levels, highlighting the importance of balanced arguments, clear structure, and appropriate use of language.

To practice further, consider writing your own essay on this topic or related themes such as:

• The role of government regulations in reducing plastic pollution
• The effectiveness of individual actions versus corporate responsibility in addressing environmental issues
• The challenges of implementing global environmental policies in diverse economic contexts

Remember to post your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.