Climate change and its impact on biodiversity have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared in various forms over the past few years, and its relevance is likely to grow as environmental concerns continue to be at the forefront of global discussions. Based on recent trends, we can expect to see more questions related to this subject in future IELTS exams.
Let’s examine a typical question that has appeared in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams:
Climate change is having a significant impact on global biodiversity. Some people believe that nothing can be done to stop this, while others argue that there are actions we can take to mitigate its effects. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that nothing can be done to stop climate change’s impact on biodiversity
- Discuss the opposing view that actions can be taken to mitigate the effects
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores to understand how to approach this topic effectively.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Climate change’s profound impact on global biodiversity is undeniable, and opinions on our ability to address this issue are divided. While some argue that the situation is beyond our control, others maintain that we can take meaningful steps to mitigate the effects. In my view, while the challenge is formidable, there are indeed actions we can and must take to protect biodiversity from the ravages of climate change.
Those who believe nothing can be done often point to the scale and complexity of the problem. Climate change is a global phenomenon driven by numerous factors, many of which are deeply entrenched in our economic systems and way of life. The sheer magnitude of greenhouse gas emissions, coupled with the inertia of political systems and the resistance to change from powerful industries, can make the task seem insurmountable. Moreover, some argue that many effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels and changing weather patterns, are already set in motion and cannot be reversed in time to save many threatened species and ecosystems.
However, the opposing view, which I support, argues that while the challenge is significant, it is not insurmountable. There are numerous actions we can take, both individually and collectively, to mitigate the impact of climate change on biodiversity. At the individual level, adopting more sustainable lifestyles, reducing our carbon footprint, and making environmentally conscious choices can contribute to the solution. On a larger scale, governments and organizations can implement policies to protect vulnerable habitats, create wildlife corridors to facilitate species migration, and invest in conservation efforts. Furthermore, technological advancements in renewable energy, carbon capture, and sustainable agriculture offer promising avenues for reducing our impact on the climate and, by extension, on biodiversity.
It is crucial to recognize that even small actions can have a cumulative effect. While we may not be able to completely halt or reverse climate change immediately, we can slow its progression and give ecosystems and species time to adapt. Conservation efforts have already shown success in protecting and even reviving endangered species. By combining these efforts with broader climate action, we can create a more resilient natural world.
In conclusion, while the impact of climate change on biodiversity is severe and the challenge of addressing it is daunting, I firmly believe that there are effective actions we can take. The key lies in a multifaceted approach combining individual responsibility, governmental action, technological innovation, and global cooperation. By acknowledging the urgency of the situation and committing to sustained effort, we can make significant strides in protecting the rich tapestry of life on our planet.
(Word count: 420)
Essay Analysis
This essay would likely score in the Band 8-9 range for the following reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, 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., “However”, “Moreover”, “Furthermore”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “formidable”, “insurmountable”, “cumulative effect”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a wide range of grammatical structures accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional structures).
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Climate change is a big problem that is affecting plants and animals all over the world. Some people think we can’t do anything to stop it, but others believe we can take action to help. I think both sides have some good points, but I agree more with the second view.
People who say we can’t do anything about climate change and biodiversity loss have some reasons. Climate change is a very big problem that is happening all over the world. It’s caused by many things like factories, cars, and cutting down trees. These things are hard to change because many countries and businesses depend on them. Also, some effects of climate change, like melting ice and rising seas, are already happening and can’t be stopped quickly.
However, I think there are things we can do to help. We can change the way we live to be more environmentally friendly. For example, we can use less energy, recycle more, and choose products that don’t harm the environment. Governments can also help by making laws to protect nature and reduce pollution. Scientists are working on new technologies to help too, like clean energy from the sun and wind.
It’s true that we might not be able to stop all the effects of climate change right away, but even small actions can make a difference. If many people and countries work together, we can slow down climate change and give animals and plants a better chance to survive. Some endangered animals have already been saved by conservation efforts, so we know it’s possible to help.
In conclusion, while climate change is a very serious problem for biodiversity, I believe we can and should take action to help. It won’t be easy, and we need everyone to work together, but it’s important to try our best to protect the plants and animals on our planet.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis
This essay would likely score in the Band 6-7 range for the following reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses the task, discussing both viewpoints and expressing an opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the higher band essay.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores. There is some attempt at using less common vocabulary (e.g., “conservation efforts”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control, though there is less variety than in the higher band essay.
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Development of Ideas: The main points are relevant, but could be expanded upon and supported with more specific examples.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.
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Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/: Make (something bad) less severe, serious, or painful.
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Insurmountable (adjective) /ˌɪnsəˈmaʊntəbl/: Too great to be overcome.
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Cumulative (adjective) /ˈkjuːmjələtɪv/: Increasing or growing by accumulation or successive additions.
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Resilient (adjective) /rɪˈzɪliənt/: Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
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Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
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Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/: The protection of plants, animals, and natural areas.
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Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˌfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organization, or community.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
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Vulnerable (adjective) /ˈvʌlnərəbl/: Exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally.
Conclusion
The impact of climate change on biodiversity is a critical topic that is likely to continue appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of individual actions versus government policies in addressing climate change
- The economic impacts of biodiversity loss
- The relationship between urbanization and biodiversity
- The importance of preserving endangered species
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to fully address the question, organize your ideas clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures accurately, and develop your arguments with relevant examples and explanations.
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the topic discussed in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and to engage in productive discussion with other learners. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam.