Sustainable agriculture and food production is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam questions. Based on analysis of past papers and current global trends, this topic’s frequency is likely to increase given its relevance to environmental challenges and food security concerns.
Should genetically modified crops be encouraged has become particularly significant as countries worldwide debate agricultural sustainability solutions.
Modern sustainable agriculture techniques showing advanced farming methods
Task Analysis and Sample Question
Some people believe that modern farming methods damage the environment and the quality of food produced. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
Question Analysis
This question requires:
- Clear position on modern farming’s impact
- Discussion of environmental effects
- Analysis of food quality
- Supporting examples
- Balanced argumentation
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The impact of contemporary agricultural practices on environmental health and food quality has become a contentious issue. While I partially agree that some modern farming methods can be harmful, I believe this is not universally true and depends largely on the specific techniques employed.
Modern intensive farming has indeed introduced several environmental challenges. The extensive use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers has led to soil degradation and water pollution in many regions. For instance, the impact of drought on food production has been exacerbated by poor soil management practices. Additionally, industrial-scale monoculture farming has reduced biodiversity and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases.
However, not all modern farming methods are detrimental. Advanced agricultural technologies, such as precision farming and drip irrigation, actually help conserve resources while maintaining high productivity. The role of technology in reducing food waste has been crucial in developing more sustainable practices. Furthermore, innovative techniques like vertical farming and hydroponics demonstrate how modern methods can produce high-quality food while minimizing environmental impact.
Regarding food quality, the situation is similarly nuanced. While mass production methods might prioritize quantity over quality, modern farming has also developed ways to enhance nutritional value and food safety. Controlled environment agriculture, for instance, can produce vegetables with consistent quality year-round, free from environmental contaminants.
In conclusion, while some modern farming practices do pose environmental and quality concerns, the solution lies not in rejecting modern methods entirely but in selecting and improving sustainable approaches that balance productivity with environmental stewardship.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
In my opinion, I agree that some modern farming methods can damage the environment and food quality, but not all methods are bad.
Firstly, modern farming can harm the environment. Chemical pesticides and fertilizers pollute soil and water. Big farms cut down trees and destroy animal homes. Also, machines used in farming make air pollution. For example, in many countries, rivers near farms are very polluted because of chemicals.
However, some new farming methods are good. Farmers now use computers to control water and save resources. Some farms use natural methods to control pests. The importance of local food movements for sustainability shows how modern farming can be environmentally friendly.
About food quality, there are both good and bad effects. Some modern methods make food grow faster but less healthy. But new technology also helps make safer food. For example, greenhouse farming makes clean vegetables without many chemicals.
In conclusion, while some modern farming methods cause problems, others help make food production better. We should use good methods and stop bad ones.
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization and cohesion
- Well-developed arguments
- Relevant examples
- Natural academic style
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Simple but clear language
- Basic organization
- Some development of ideas
- Limited range of structures
- Occasional errors
Key Vocabulary
- Sustainable agriculture (n) /səˈsteɪnəbəl ˈæɡrɪkʌltʃər/ – farming methods that protect the environment
- Monoculture (n) /ˈmɒnəʊkʌltʃə/ – growing single crops over large areas
- Precision farming (n) /prɪˈsɪʒən ˈfɑːmɪŋ/ – using technology to optimize crop management
- Biodiversity (n) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – variety of plant and animal life
- Hydroponics (n) /ˌhaɪdrəˈpɒnɪks/ – growing plants without soil
Future test-takers should practice writing about related topics such as:
- Organic farming versus conventional methods
- Food security challenges
- Agricultural technology innovation
- Climate change impacts on farming
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
