The topic of government investment in clean energy research is becoming increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This trend reflects the growing global concern about environmental issues and the need for sustainable energy solutions. Based on recent exam patterns, we can expect to see more questions related to this subject in future IELTS tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past exams and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should invest more money in clean energy research, while others believe that people should take responsibility for reducing energy use and managing pollution. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question asks you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints:
- Governments should invest more in clean energy research
- Individuals should take responsibility for reducing energy use and managing pollution
You are required to discuss both perspectives and provide your own opinion on the matter. This type of question falls under the “discuss both views and give your opinion” category, which is common in IELTS Writing Task 2.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, the debate over how to address environmental concerns has intensified, with some arguing for increased government investment in clean energy research, while others advocate for individual responsibility in reducing energy consumption and pollution. In my opinion, while both approaches have merit, a combination of government-led research and personal accountability is crucial for effective environmental stewardship.
Proponents of government investment in clean energy research argue that this approach can lead to significant breakthroughs in sustainable technology. Large-scale research projects, funded by government resources, have the potential to develop innovative solutions that individuals or private companies might not be able to achieve alone. For instance, government-backed research has been instrumental in advancing solar panel efficiency and developing more cost-effective wind turbines. These advancements not only benefit the environment but also create new industries and job opportunities, stimulating economic growth.
On the other hand, those who emphasize individual responsibility contend that personal actions can collectively make a substantial impact on energy consumption and pollution levels. By adopting energy-efficient practices, such as using public transportation, reducing waste, and choosing eco-friendly products, individuals can significantly decrease their carbon footprint. Moreover, this approach fosters a sense of environmental consciousness that can lead to broader societal changes and influence policy-making from the grassroots level.
In my view, the most effective strategy involves a synergy between government investment and individual action. While government-funded research can provide the tools and technologies needed for a cleaner future, it is ultimately up to individuals to implement and support these innovations in their daily lives. For example, government investment in electric vehicle technology is most effective when coupled with individual willingness to adopt these vehicles and change transportation habits.
In conclusion, addressing environmental challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Government investment in clean energy research is crucial for developing large-scale solutions, but it must be complemented by individual responsibility and action. By combining top-down innovation with bottom-up implementation, we can create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “For example”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “environmental stewardship,” “carbon footprint,” “synergy”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional statements).
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
These days, there is a debate about how to solve environmental problems. Some people think the government should spend more money on clean energy research, while others believe individuals should use less energy and control pollution. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
Those who support government investment in clean energy research say it can help create new technologies. When the government funds big research projects, scientists can work on finding better ways to produce clean energy. This could lead to things like better solar panels or more efficient wind turbines. These new technologies could help reduce pollution and create new jobs.
On the other hand, people who think individuals should take responsibility argue that personal actions are important. If everyone uses less energy at home, drives less, and recycles more, it can make a big difference to the environment. When many people change their habits, it can also influence companies and governments to be more environmentally friendly.
In my opinion, both approaches are necessary to solve environmental problems. Government research is important for developing new technologies, but these technologies won’t be useful if people don’t use them. At the same time, individual actions are crucial, but they may not be enough without new clean energy options.
To conclude, I believe a combination of government investment and individual responsibility is the best way to address environmental issues. Governments should continue to fund clean energy research, while individuals should make efforts to reduce their energy use and pollution. By working together, we can create a cleaner and more sustainable future.
(Word count: 268)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and stating the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses some cohesive devices, but less skillfully than the higher band essay.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a sufficient range of vocabulary, but with less sophistication and precision compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control, but lacks the flexibility and accuracy of the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Environmental stewardship (noun) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːərdʃɪp/ – The responsible use and protection of the natural environment.
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Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.
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Carbon footprint (noun) – /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organization, or community.
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Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment.
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Grassroots (adjective) – /ˈɡrɑːsruːts/ – Of or relating to the common people, especially as contrasted with the leadership of a movement.
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Synergy (noun) – /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
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Multi-faceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features.
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Implement (verb) – /ˈɪmplɪment/ – Put (a decision, plan, agreement, etc.) into effect.
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Innovative (adjective) – /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ – Featuring new methods; advanced and original.
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Collective (adjective) – /kəˈlektɪv/ – Done by people acting as a group.
Conclusion
The topic of government investment in clean energy research versus individual responsibility for environmental protection is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare, consider practicing with similar questions such as:
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“Some people believe that technological advancements are the key to solving environmental problems, while others think changes in human behavior are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
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“To what extent do you agree or disagree that governments should prioritize environmental protection over economic growth?”
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“Some people think that individuals cannot do anything to improve the environment, and only governments and large companies can make a difference. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”
We encourage you to practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.