The topic of zoo conservation is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on historical data from reputable IELTS preparation websites, this subject has appeared frequently in past tests and is likely to continue as a popular topic in future exams. To help you prepare effectively, we’ll analyze a relevant question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Let’s examine the following question that closely resembles those encountered in actual IELTS exams:
Some people believe that zoos should primarily focus on species conservation rather than entertainment. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on the role of zoos in species conservation versus entertainment. It’s crucial to:
- Clearly state your position
- Provide reasons and examples to support your argument
- Consider counterarguments
- Conclude by restating your main points
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-scoring response.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, there has been growing debate about the primary purpose of zoos. While some argue that these facilities should prioritize species conservation, others believe that their main function should remain entertainment. In my opinion, zoos should indeed shift their focus towards conservation efforts, as this approach is crucial for protecting endangered species and maintaining biodiversity.
The preservation of endangered species is arguably the most important role that zoos can play in today’s world. Many animals face extinction due to habitat loss, climate change, and human activities. Zoos have the resources and expertise to implement breeding programs, conduct research, and develop conservation strategies that can help save these species from disappearing forever. For instance, the San Diego Zoo’s successful breeding program for the California condor has been instrumental in bringing this species back from the brink of extinction.
Moreover, by focusing on conservation, zoos can contribute significantly to role of animal conservation in biodiversity. They can serve as genetic reservoirs for rare species and participate in international efforts to maintain healthy, diverse populations of animals. This approach not only helps preserve individual species but also contributes to the overall health of ecosystems worldwide.
While entertainment has traditionally been a key aspect of zoos, it is possible to balance conservation efforts with educational experiences for visitors. By showcasing conservation work and providing informative exhibits, zoos can engage and educate the public about the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats. This approach can foster a sense of environmental responsibility among visitors, particularly children, who may be inspired to become future conservationists.
However, it is important to acknowledge that some argue for should zoos be replaced by wildlife reserves, claiming that they provide a more natural environment for animals. While this is a valid point, well-managed zoos with a strong conservation focus can play a crucial role in protecting species that might not survive in the wild due to various threats.
In conclusion, I strongly believe that zoos should prioritize species conservation over entertainment. By doing so, they can make a significant contribution to protecting endangered species, maintaining biodiversity, and educating the public about the importance of wildlife conservation. While entertainment can still be a component of the zoo experience, it should be secondary to the vital work of preserving our planet’s diverse fauna for future generations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, many people think zoos should focus more on protecting animals instead of just entertaining visitors. I agree with this idea because it’s important to save endangered animals and teach people about nature.
Firstly, zoos can help save animals that might disappear forever. Many animals are in danger because of things like cutting down forests and climate change. Zoos can breed these animals and keep them safe. For example, some zoos have helped increase the number of pandas, which are very rare.
Secondly, when zoos focus on conservation, they can teach visitors about animals and nature. People can learn why it’s important to protect animals and their homes. This is especially good for children, who might want to help animals when they grow up.
However, some people might say that zoos should still be fun places to visit. I think zoos can do both things. They can have interesting exhibits about saving animals that are also fun to see. This way, people can enjoy their visit and learn something important at the same time.
On the other hand, some argue that Should zoos be banned for ethical reasons? because they think animals should live in the wild. While this is a good point, many animals might not survive in the wild now because of dangers like hunting or loss of their homes.
In conclusion, I believe zoos should focus more on protecting animals than just entertaining people. This can help save endangered species and teach people about nature. Zoos can still be fun places to visit, but their main job should be to help animals and the environment.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
I think zoos should focus on saving animals more than just being fun places. This is important because many animals are in danger of dying out.
Zoos can help save animals that might disappear. They can keep animals safe and make more of them. This is good because some animals have no safe place to live in nature anymore.
Also, when zoos try to save animals, they can teach people about it. Visitors can learn why animals are important and how to help them. This is good for everyone, especially kids.
But some people think zoos should still be fun. I think zoos can do both. They can make saving animals interesting for visitors to see.
Some people say animals should only live in the wild. But sometimes the wild is not safe for animals anymore because of humans.
In the end, I think zoos should try harder to save animals. They can still be fun, but helping animals should be the most important thing they do.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Clear position and well-developed arguments
- Excellent use of vocabulary and grammar
- Coherent structure with clear paragraphing
- Relevant examples and counterarguments addressed
- Sophisticated language use (e.g., “genetic reservoirs,” “foster a sense of environmental responsibility”)
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Clear position with some development of ideas
- Good vocabulary and grammar with some errors
- Coherent structure but less sophisticated than Band 8-9
- Some examples provided, but less specific
- Simpler language use, but still effective
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Basic position stated with limited development
- Simple vocabulary and grammar with noticeable errors
- Basic paragraph structure
- Limited examples and explanation
- Simple language throughout
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Species conservation (noun) – /ˈspiːʃiːz ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən/ – The protection and preservation of different types of animals and plants
- Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or on Earth as a whole
- Endangered species (noun) – /ɪnˈdeɪndʒəd ˈspiːʃiːz/ – A type of animal or plant that may soon no longer exist
- Habitat loss (noun) – /ˈhæbɪtæt lɒs/ – The destruction or alteration of natural environments where species live
- Breeding program (noun) – /ˈbriːdɪŋ ˈprəʊɡræm/ – A planned effort to reproduce and increase the population of a specific species
- Genetic reservoir (noun) – /dʒəˈnetɪk ˈrezəvwɑː/ – A source of genetic diversity for a species or population
- Environmental responsibility (noun) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – The duty to care for and protect the natural world
- Wildlife conservation (noun) – /ˈwaɪldlaɪf ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən/ – The practice of protecting wild animal species and their habitats
In conclusion, the topic of zoo conservation is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as the role of wildlife reserves, the ethics of keeping animals in captivity, and the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered species. Remember to clearly state your position, provide well-developed arguments, and use appropriate vocabulary and grammar.
We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare you for success in the exam.