The topic of using animals in sports has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past trends and current societal concerns, it’s likely to appear again in future tests. This essay question touches on ethical issues surrounding animal welfare and entertainment, making it a relevant and thought-provoking subject for IELTS candidates.
Let’s examine a sample question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that the use of animals in sports and entertainment is cruel and should be banned. Others believe it is an important tradition that should be preserved. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for banning animal use in sports and entertainment
- Discuss arguments for preserving this tradition
- Provide 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 8-9 level response.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, the ethical implications of using animals in sports and entertainment have come under scrutiny. While some argue that this practice is cruel and should be prohibited, others contend that it is a valuable tradition worth preserving. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Those who advocate for banning animal use in sports and entertainment often cite concerns about animal welfare. They argue that animals are subjected to stress, physical exertion, and potential injury for human amusement. For instance, rodeos and bullfighting have been criticized for putting animals in dangerous situations that can lead to severe injuries or death. Moreover, the training methods used to prepare animals for performances may involve cruel practices, such as food deprivation or physical punishment. From this perspective, using animals for entertainment is seen as an exploitative practice that prioritizes human enjoyment over animal well-being.
On the other hand, proponents of maintaining animal-based sports and entertainment emphasize the cultural significance and economic benefits of these traditions. They argue that many of these practices have deep historical roots and play an important role in preserving cultural heritage. For example, horse racing has been a part of many societies for centuries and is often viewed as an elegant sport that showcases the bond between humans and animals. Additionally, these events can generate substantial revenue for local economies and provide employment opportunities. Supporters also contend that many animals involved in sports and entertainment receive high-quality care and veterinary attention, often leading better lives than their counterparts in the wild.
In my opinion, while I acknowledge the cultural importance of some animal-based traditions, I believe that the ethical considerations should take precedence. The potential for animal suffering and exploitation outweighs the benefits of preserving these practices. However, I propose a nuanced approach rather than an outright ban. We should focus on phasing out the most harmful practices while exploring alternatives that can maintain cultural traditions without compromising animal welfare. For instance, technological advancements could allow for the creation of virtual or robotic substitutes in some cases, preserving the spectacle without endangering live animals.
In conclusion, the use of animals in sports and entertainment is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides. While cultural traditions and economic factors are important considerations, I believe that our evolving understanding of animal cognition and welfare necessitates a reevaluation of these practices. By prioritizing ethical treatment and exploring innovative alternatives, we can work towards a future that respects both cultural heritage and animal rights.
(Word count: 407)
Ethical debate on animal use in sports
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphs are well-linked using a range of cohesive devices.
Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Examples include “ethical implications,” “scrutiny,” “cultural significance,” and “phasing out.”
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It displays a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are used effectively throughout.
Development of Ideas: Each main point is extended and supported with relevant examples and explanations.
This essay would likely score in the Band 8-9 range due to its sophisticated approach to the topic, excellent use of language, and clear, well-developed arguments.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The use of animals in sports and entertainment is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it’s cruel and should be stopped, while others believe it’s an important tradition. This essay will look at both sides of the argument.
People who want to ban animal use in sports say it’s not fair to the animals. They think that animals get hurt or scared when they’re used for human entertainment. For example, in bull fighting, the bulls often get injured or killed. Also, some animals like circus animals might be treated badly during training. These people believe that animals have feelings too and shouldn’t be used just for fun.
On the other hand, some people think using animals in sports is important for culture and tradition. They say that many of these sports have been around for a long time and are part of a country’s history. For instance, horse racing is very popular in many countries and has been for hundreds of years. These events also make money for local businesses and give people jobs. Some argue that the animals used in sports are well cared for and have good lives.
In my opinion, I think we should be more careful about how we use animals in sports and entertainment. While some traditions are important, we shouldn’t continue practices that harm animals. Maybe we can find new ways to keep the traditions alive without using real animals. For example, we could use technology to create shows that don’t need live animals but still entertain people.
To conclude, this is a difficult issue because there are good points on both sides. However, I believe we need to think more about animal welfare in the future and try to find better solutions that don’t hurt animals but still respect traditions.
(Word count: 309)
Balancing animal welfare and sports traditions
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good competence in several areas:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though the treatment of the topic is more general compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, though the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the higher band essay.
Lexical Resource: The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary, though there is less precision and sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: There is a mix of simple and complex sentence forms, with generally good control, though not as flexible as the higher band essay.
Development of Ideas: Main ideas are extended and supported, though not as fully as in the Band 8-9 essay.
This essay would likely score in the Band 6-7 range. It demonstrates a good understanding of the topic and addresses all parts of the task, but lacks the sophistication and depth of a higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary
ethical implications (noun phrase) – /ˈeθɪkəl ˌɪmpləˈkeɪʃənz/ – the potential consequences or effects of an action in terms of morality and ethics
animal welfare (noun phrase) – /ˈænɪməl ˈwelfeə(r)/ – the well-being of animals, especially as it relates to their care and treatment by humans
cultural significance (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl sɪɡˈnɪfɪkəns/ – the importance or meaning that something holds within a particular culture or society
phasing out (phrasal verb) – /ˈfeɪzɪŋ aʊt/ – to gradually stop using or providing something
exploitation (noun) – /ˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃən/ – the action of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work or resources
scrutiny (noun) – /ˈskruːtəni/ – careful and thorough examination or inspection
nuanced approach (noun phrase) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst əˈprəʊtʃ/ – a way of dealing with a situation that shows an appreciation for its complexity
cognition (noun) – /kɒɡˈnɪʃən/ – the mental action or process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experience, and the senses
These vocabulary items can help elevate your essay and demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the topic.
Conclusion
The issue of using animals in sports and entertainment is likely to remain a relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, consider practicing with similar questions, such as:
Some people believe that zoos are cruel and should be closed. Others think they play an important role in education and conservation. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
In some cultures, it is common to keep animals as pets, while in others this is considered unnecessary or even wrong. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Remember to always address all parts of the question, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.