The topic of banning plastic bags has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past exam trends and current environmental concerns, it’s highly likely that this topic will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore this issue through sample essays for different band scores, focusing on the question:
Some people think that the use of plastic bags should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on banning plastic bags. Key points to consider:
- The phrase “to what extent” invites a nuanced response.
- You need to clearly state your position and support it with reasons and examples.
- Consider both sides of the argument before reaching a conclusion.
Sample Essay for Band 6
Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6 range:
Plastic bags have become a big problem for our environment. Many people think we should stop using them completely. I agree that plastic bags are harmful, but I don’t think a total ban is the best solution.
Firstly, plastic bags are bad for the environment. They take hundreds of years to break down and often end up in oceans, hurting animals. Also, making plastic bags uses oil, which is not good for the planet.
However, banning plastic bags completely might cause problems. Many people rely on them for shopping and storing food. If we ban them suddenly, it could be difficult for people to adjust. Also, some alternatives to plastic bags, like paper bags, can also harm the environment if overused.
I think a better solution is to slowly reduce plastic bag use. We can charge money for plastic bags in shops to encourage people to bring their own bags. We can also teach people about the problems with plastic and show them how to use reusable bags.
In conclusion, while plastic bags are a serious problem, I believe a complete ban is too extreme. Instead, we should work on reducing their use gradually and finding better alternatives.
(Word count: 213)
Analysis of Band 6 Essay
This essay demonstrates:
- A clear position, though not strongly argued
- Basic organization with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
- Some use of linking words, though not always sophisticated
- A range of simple vocabulary with a few topic-specific words
- Mostly simple sentences with some attempts at complex structures
- A few grammatical errors that don’t impede understanding
Sample Essay for Band 7
Now, let’s look at a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 7 range:
The proliferation of plastic bags has become a significant environmental concern in recent years, prompting calls for their outright ban. While I acknowledge the severe environmental impact of plastic bags, I believe that a complete ban may be too drastic a measure. Instead, I argue for a more nuanced approach that combines regulation, education, and gradual reduction.
Undoubtedly, plastic bags pose a serious threat to our ecosystem. Their non-biodegradable nature means they persist in the environment for centuries, clogging waterways, harming marine life, and contributing to the ever-growing problem of microplastics in our oceans. Moreover, the production of plastic bags relies heavily on fossil fuels, exacerbating climate change concerns.
However, an immediate and total ban on plastic bags could have unintended consequences. Many households and businesses rely on these bags for various purposes, from food storage to waste management. A sudden ban could lead to economic disruptions and might even result in the adoption of alternatives that have their own environmental costs, such as paper bags, which require more energy to produce and transport.
Instead of an outright ban, I propose a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, governments should implement a graduated tax on plastic bags, making them progressively more expensive to discourage casual use. Secondly, there should be investment in public education campaigns to raise awareness about the environmental impact of plastic and promote reusable alternatives. Lastly, research and development into truly biodegradable materials should be prioritized to provide eco-friendly options for situations where disposable bags are necessary.
In conclusion, while the environmental damage caused by plastic bags is undeniable, a more measured response than an outright ban is needed. By combining economic disincentives, public education, and technological innovation, we can work towards a significant reduction in plastic bag use without causing undue disruption to daily life.
(Word count: 298)
Analysis of Band 7 Essay
This essay demonstrates:
- A clear position with a nuanced argument
- Logical organization with clear progression of ideas
- Good use of cohesive devices
- A wide range of vocabulary used accurately
- A mix of simple and complex sentence structures
- Few grammatical errors
Eco-friendly alternatives to plastic bags
Sample Essay for Band 8
Finally, let’s examine a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8 range:
The ubiquity of plastic bags in modern society has led to mounting environmental concerns, prompting a vigorous debate about the merits of an outright ban. While the detrimental impact of plastic bags on our ecosystem is undeniable, I contend that a nuanced, multi-pronged approach would be more effective than an absolute prohibition.
The case against plastic bags is compelling and multifaceted. Their persistence in the environment, often taking centuries to decompose, has resulted in widespread pollution of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Marine life, in particular, suffers greatly, with countless creatures falling victim to ingestion or entanglement. Furthermore, the production of plastic bags contributes to the depletion of finite fossil fuel resources and exacerbates greenhouse gas emissions. These factors collectively present a strong argument for stringent measures to curtail their use.
However, an outright ban on plastic bags could potentially engender a host of unintended consequences. Many industries and households have come to rely on these versatile tools for various purposes, from food preservation to waste management. A sudden prohibition could lead to economic disruptions and might inadvertently promote the adoption of alternatives that carry their own environmental costs. For instance, paper bags, often touted as a more eco-friendly option, require significantly more energy to produce and transport, potentially resulting in increased carbon emissions.
Instead of an absolute ban, I propose a comprehensive strategy that addresses the issue from multiple angles. Firstly, implementing a progressively increasing tax on plastic bags would create a strong economic disincentive for their use while allowing time for adaptation. This approach has proven successful in countries like Ireland, where plastic bag consumption dropped by over 90% following the introduction of a levy.
Secondly, substantial investment in public education campaigns is crucial. By raising awareness about the environmental impact of plastic and promoting reusable alternatives, we can foster a culture of sustainability that extends beyond the issue of plastic bags. Schools, media, and community organizations should be leveraged to disseminate information and encourage behavior change.
Thirdly, governments and private sector entities should allocate resources to research and develop truly biodegradable materials. These innovations could provide eco-friendly options for situations where disposable bags are necessary, such as in medical settings or for certain food storage applications.
Lastly, legislation should be enacted to mandate the use of recycled content in plastic bags that remain in circulation. This would help to create a circular economy for plastics and reduce the demand for virgin materials.
In conclusion, while the environmental havoc wreaked by plastic bags necessitates urgent action, a more measured and comprehensive response than an outright ban is required. By combining economic instruments, public education, technological innovation, and smart regulation, we can work towards a significant reduction in plastic bag use and its associated environmental impact. This multi-faceted approach not only addresses the immediate issue but also fosters a broader shift towards sustainable consumption patterns, paving the way for a more environmentally conscious society.
(Word count: 478)
Analysis of Band 8 Essay
This essay demonstrates:
- A sophisticated argument with a clear position
- Excellent organization with a logical flow of ideas
- Skillful use of a wide range of cohesive devices
- An extensive vocabulary used with full flexibility and precision
- A wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately
- Very few errors, if any
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Ubiquity (noun) – /juːˈbɪkwɪti/ – the state of being everywhere
- Detrimental (adjective) – /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – causing harm or damage
- Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
- Engender (verb) – /ɪnˈdʒendə(r)/ – cause or give rise to
- Versatile (adjective) – /ˈvɜːsətaɪl/ – able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities
- Disseminate (verb) – /dɪˈsemɪneɪt/ – spread widely
- Biodegradable (adjective) – /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms
- Circular economy (noun phrase) – /ˈsɜːkjələ(r) iˈkɒnəmi/ – an economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources
- Havoc (noun) – /ˈhævək/ – widespread destruction
- Multi-pronged (adjective) – /ˌmʌltiˈprɒŋd/ – having or using several different approaches or methods
Conclusion
The topic of banning plastic bags is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams due to ongoing environmental concerns. When addressing this issue, consider various perspectives, including environmental impact, economic consequences, and potential alternatives.
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:
- The role of government regulation in reducing plastic waste
- The effectiveness of individual actions versus systemic changes in environmental protection
- The balance between environmental concerns and economic development
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
