IELTS Writing Task 2: Expert Sample Essays on Banning Single-Use Plastics (Band 6-9)

The topic of banning single-use plastics globally has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and the growing environmental concerns, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore this important issue through sample essays and in-depth analysis.

Analyzing the Task 2 Question

Some people think that the use of single-use plastics should be banned globally. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

This question requires you to express your opinion on whether single-use plastics should be banned worldwide. It’s crucial to:

1. Clearly state your position
2. Provide reasons and examples to support your argument
3. Consider potential counterarguments
4. Conclude with a well-reasoned summary of your stance

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Level

The proliferation of single-use plastics has become a global environmental crisis, prompting calls for a worldwide ban. I strongly agree with this view, as the detrimental impacts of these materials far outweigh their short-term convenience.

Firstly, single-use plastics pose a severe threat to marine ecosystems. Millions of tons of plastic waste end up in our oceans annually, forming vast garbage patches and harming marine life. Sea creatures often mistake plastic debris for food, leading to starvation and death. A global ban would significantly reduce this pollution, helping to preserve biodiversity and protect vulnerable species.

Moreover, the production and disposal of single-use plastics contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. The petrochemical processes involved in manufacturing these items release substantial amounts of carbon dioxide, exacerbating climate change. By eliminating single-use plastics, we could make considerable progress in reducing our carbon footprint and mitigating global warming.

Critics argue that banning single-use plastics could negatively impact certain industries and convenience in daily life. However, this perspective fails to consider the long-term economic and health benefits of such a ban. The development of sustainable alternatives would stimulate innovation and create new job opportunities in the green economy. Furthermore, reducing plastic pollution would lead to improved public health outcomes, as microplastics have been found in human food chains and drinking water.

In conclusion, the global ban on single-use plastics is not only necessary but also urgently required. While it may present short-term challenges, the long-term benefits to our environment, economy, and health far outweigh these temporary inconveniences. It is imperative that governments, businesses, and individuals work together to implement this ban and transition to more sustainable alternatives.

(Word count: 278)

Essay Analysis:

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 8-9 level response:

1. Clear position: The writer strongly agrees with the ban, stated in the introduction.
2. Well-developed arguments: Each paragraph focuses on a specific point (marine ecosystem, greenhouse gas emissions, counterarguments) with detailed explanations.
3. Cohesive structure: The essay flows logically, using appropriate linking words and phrases.
4. Advanced vocabulary: The writer uses sophisticated vocabulary accurately (e.g., “proliferation,” “detrimental,” “exacerbating”).
5. Complex sentence structures: The essay includes a mix of simple and complex sentences.
6. Addressing counterarguments: The writer acknowledges and refutes opposing viewpoints.
7. Strong conclusion: The conclusion reinforces the writer’s position and provides a call to action.

Global ban on single-use plastics

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Level

In recent years, there has been a growing debate about banning single-use plastics globally. I agree that this is a good idea, but I think it might be difficult to implement completely.

One of the main reasons to ban single-use plastics is their negative impact on the environment. Plastic bags and bottles often end up in oceans and rivers, harming animals and polluting water. For example, many sea turtles die each year because they eat plastic bags thinking they are jellyfish. By banning these plastics, we can help protect wildlife and keep our planet cleaner.

Another advantage of banning single-use plastics is that it would encourage people to use more eco-friendly alternatives. If plastic bags are not available, people will start using reusable bags made from cloth or other materials. This change in behavior can lead to a more sustainable lifestyle overall.

However, there are some challenges to implementing a global ban. Many businesses rely on single-use plastics for packaging and might struggle to find affordable alternatives. Also, in some developing countries, access to clean water depends on plastic bottles. These issues need to be considered when planning a ban.

In conclusion, while banning single-use plastics globally is a good idea for environmental reasons, it may be difficult to achieve immediately. I believe a gradual approach, combined with education about the harmful effects of plastic, would be more effective in the long run.

(Word count: 249)

Essay Analysis:

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 level response:

1. Clear position: The writer agrees with the ban but acknowledges implementation challenges.
2. Adequate arguments: The essay provides reasons for supporting the ban and mentions potential difficulties.
3. Basic structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
4. Appropriate vocabulary: The writer uses relevant vocabulary, though less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay.
5. Mix of sentence structures: The essay includes both simple and compound sentences.
6. Examples: The writer provides a specific example (sea turtles) to support their argument.
7. Conclusion: The conclusion restates the writer’s position and suggests a possible solution.

While this essay effectively communicates the writer’s ideas, it could be improved by:

• Providing more detailed explanations and examples
• Using more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures
• Developing a more nuanced argument that explores multiple perspectives in greater depth

Key Vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2 on Single-Use Plastics

1. Proliferation (noun) /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/: Rapid increase or spread
   Example: The proliferation of single-use plastics has led to severe environmental issues.

2. Detrimental (adjective) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/: Causing harm or damage
   Example: Single-use plastics have a detrimental effect on marine ecosystems.

3. Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/: Make a problem or situation worse
   Example: The continued use of plastic bags exacerbates the pollution problem.

4. Biodegradable (adjective) /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/: Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms
   Example: Many companies are now producing biodegradable alternatives to plastic packaging.

5. Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time
   Example: Banning single-use plastics is crucial for environmental sustainability.

6. Microplastics (noun) /ˌmaɪkrəʊˈplæstɪks/: Extremely small pieces of plastic debris in the environment
   Example: Microplastics have been found in many marine animals and even in human food chains.

7. Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˌiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/: Not harmful to the environment
   Example: Many consumers are now opting for eco-friendly products to reduce their environmental impact.

8. Transition (noun) /trænˈzɪʃn/: The process of changing from one state or condition to another
   Example: The transition from single-use plastics to sustainable alternatives will require significant effort and innovation.

9. Implement (verb) /ˈɪmplɪment/: Put into effect or action
   Example: Governments worldwide are trying to implement policies to reduce plastic waste.

10. Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/: The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something
    Example: The mitigation of plastic pollution requires global cooperation and individual action.

Conclusion

The topic of banning single-use plastics globally is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

1. The role of governments in reducing plastic waste
2. Individual responsibility in combating plastic pollution
3. The economic impact of transitioning away from single-use plastics
4. Balancing environmental concerns with business interests in plastic production

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.