The topic of replacing zoos with wildlife reserves has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, appearing with moderate frequency over the past few years. Given the ongoing global discussions about animal welfare and conservation, this topic is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Based on our analysis of past IELTS exams, we have identified a question that closely aligns with this theme:
Some people believe that zoos are cruel and should be closed down. Others, however, believe that zoos play an important role in protecting rare animals. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
This question falls under the “discuss both views and give your opinion” category. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that zoos are cruel and should be closed down
- Discuss the opposing view that zoos play an important role in protecting rare animals
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
To achieve a high band score, candidates must address all parts of the question, provide relevant examples, and present a well-structured argument.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
The debate over the role of zoos in modern society has intensified in recent years, with some arguing for their closure due to perceived cruelty, while others champion their importance in wildlife conservation. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint on this complex issue.
Those who advocate for the closure of zoos often cite the confined and unnatural living conditions that many animals endure. Critics argue that keeping wild animals in enclosures that are a fraction of their natural habitat size can lead to physical and psychological distress. For instance, large mammals like elephants and big cats, which typically roam vast territories in the wild, are often restricted to relatively small spaces in zoos. This limitation can result in abnormal behaviors, such as repetitive pacing or self-harm, indicating significant stress and compromised welfare.
On the other hand, proponents of zoos emphasize their crucial role in conservation efforts, particularly for endangered species. Zoos provide a safe haven for animals facing extinction due to habitat loss, poaching, or other human-induced threats. Many zoos participate in breeding programs that have successfully increased populations of critically endangered species, such as the giant panda and the California condor. Moreover, zoos serve as educational centers, raising public awareness about wildlife conservation and inspiring visitors, especially children, to care about environmental issues.
In my opinion, while the concerns about animal welfare in zoos are valid, the solution lies in reform rather than complete abolition. I believe that zoos can evolve to prioritize animal welfare while maintaining their conservation and educational roles. This could involve creating larger, more naturalistic habitats, focusing on species that can thrive in captivity, and placing greater emphasis on rehabilitation and release programs. Additionally, zoos could transition towards becoming wildlife reserves or sanctuaries, where animals have more space and freedom while still benefiting from protection and care.
In conclusion, the debate over zoos reflects the complex relationship between human society and wildlife conservation. While concerns about animal welfare in traditional zoos are legitimate, the potential for zoos to contribute to conservation efforts should not be dismissed. By reimagining the concept of zoos and prioritizing animal welfare alongside conservation and education, we can create institutions that serve both animals and humans more effectively.
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high band score (8-9) for several reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, 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”, “In conclusion”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “confined”, “unnatural living conditions”, “compromised welfare”, “critically endangered species”).
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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).
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
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Balanced Argument: The essay presents a balanced view of the issue before offering a nuanced personal opinion.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Zoos have been a topic of debate for many years. Some people think they are bad for animals and should be closed, while others believe they help protect rare animals. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
People who want to close zoos say that they are cruel to animals. They argue that animals in zoos live in small spaces that are nothing like their natural homes. For example, elephants in the wild can walk many miles each day, but in zoos, they only have a small area. This can make the animals sad and unhealthy. Also, some zoos don’t take good care of their animals, which is very bad for the animals’ well-being.
On the other hand, people who support zoos say they are important for protecting rare animals. Zoos can keep endangered animals safe and help them have babies to increase their numbers. For instance, some types of tigers are almost extinct in the wild, but zoos have helped increase their population. Zoos also teach people about animals and nature, which can make people care more about protecting the environment.
In my opinion, zoos can be good if they are done right. I think we should not close all zoos, but we should make them better for the animals. Zoos should give animals more space and try to make their homes more like the wild. They should also focus more on helping endangered animals and teaching people about protecting nature.
To conclude, while zoos have some problems, they can also do good things for animals and education. The important thing is to make sure that zoos prioritize the well-being of animals and focus on conservation efforts. This way, zoos can continue to help protect rare animals while also being kinder to the animals they keep.
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a Band 6-7 score for the following reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but uses simpler linking words and phrases (e.g., “On the other hand”, “Also”, “To conclude”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but less sophisticated than in the higher band essay. There is some attempt to use less common vocabulary (e.g., “endangered”, “extinct”), but the range is more limited.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, with generally good control. However, the range is not as wide as in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Development of Ideas: Main points are supported with examples, but they are less elaborated compared to the higher band essay.
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Balanced Argument: The essay presents both sides of the argument and offers a personal opinion, but the analysis is less nuanced than in the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Conservation (noun) – /ˌkɒn.səˈveɪ.ʃən/ – The protection of plants and animals, natural areas, and important structures and things from damage or destruction.
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Endangered species (noun phrase) – /ɪnˈdeɪn.dʒərd ˈspiː.ʃiːz/ – A type of animal or plant that may soon not exist because there are very few now alive.
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Habitat (noun) – /ˈhæb.ɪ.tæt/ – The natural environment in which an animal or plant usually lives.
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Welfare (noun) – /ˈwel.feər/ – The health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group.
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Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪ.əʊ.daɪˈvɜː.sə.ti/ – The number and types of plants and animals that exist in a particular area or in the world generally.
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Rehabilitation (noun) – /ˌriː.əˌbɪl.ɪˈteɪ.ʃən/ – The process of returning something to a good condition.
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Sanctuary (noun) – /ˈsæŋk.tʃə.ri/ – A place where wild birds or animals are protected and encouraged to breed.
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Captivity (noun) – /kæpˈtɪv.ə.ti/ – The state of being kept in a confined space.
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Poaching (noun) – /ˈpəʊ.tʃɪŋ/ – The illegal hunting or catching of wild animals.
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Ecosystem (noun) – /ˈiː.kəʊˌsɪs.təm/ – All the living things in an area and the way they affect each other and the environment.
Conclusion
The debate over replacing zoos with wildlife reserves is a complex and ongoing issue in animal welfare and conservation. As seen in our sample essays, this topic allows for discussion of various perspectives, including animal welfare concerns, conservation efforts, and educational value.
To further prepare for potential IELTS Writing Task 2 questions on this theme, consider practicing with these related topics:
- The role of zoos in modern society
- Pros and cons of wildlife tourism
- Balancing human entertainment and animal welfare
- The impact of habitat loss on wildlife
- Alternative approaches to wildlife conservation
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to fully address the question, provide relevant examples, and present a well-structured argument. Practice writing essays on these topics, and don’t hesitate to share your work 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.