Climate change and its impact on the global economy is a topic of increasing importance in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared frequently in recent years and is likely to continue being a popular subject for examination. Let’s explore a relevant question that mirrors the style and complexity of actual IELTS prompts.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that climate change will have severe economic consequences for all countries, while others think it will only affect developing nations. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that climate change will severely impact all economies
- Explore the perspective that only developing nations will be affected
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter
Let’s examine two sample essays addressing this prompt, one aiming for a Band 8-9 score and another targeting a Band 6-7 score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Climate change is undeniably one of the most pressing issues of our time, with far-reaching implications for the global economy. While some argue that its economic consequences will be universal, others contend that developing nations will bear the brunt of the impact. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Those who believe climate change will affect all countries economically have compelling arguments. Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts, are becoming more frequent and intense worldwide, causing significant damage to infrastructure and disrupting business operations in both developed and developing nations. Moreover, rising sea levels threaten coastal cities globally, potentially displacing millions and necessitating costly adaptation measures. These factors could lead to reduced productivity, increased insurance costs, and diverted resources for all nations, regardless of their economic status.
Conversely, the view that developing countries will be disproportionately affected also holds merit. These nations often lack the financial resources and technological capabilities to implement effective climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. Additionally, many developing economies rely heavily on climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture and tourism, making them more vulnerable to environmental shifts. Limited access to healthcare and social safety nets in these countries further exacerbates the economic impact of climate-related disasters on their populations.
In my opinion, while climate change will undoubtedly have economic repercussions for all nations, the severity of its impact will vary significantly. Developed countries, with their greater financial resources and advanced technologies, are better equipped to adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. However, this does not mean they will be immune to its consequences. The interconnected nature of the global economy means that economic disruptions in developing nations will inevitably ripple through to more advanced economies.
In conclusion, climate change presents a complex economic challenge that transcends national boundaries. While its effects will be felt globally, the intensity of the impact will likely be uneven, with developing nations facing more severe consequences. This underscores the need for global cooperation and support to address this shared threat effectively.
(Word count: 329)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Climate change is a big problem for the world economy. Some people think it will hurt all countries badly, while others believe only poor countries will suffer. I will discuss both ideas and share my thoughts.
Those who say climate change will affect everyone have good reasons. Natural disasters like floods and storms are happening more often everywhere, damaging buildings and businesses in rich and poor countries. Also, rising seas threaten many cities around the world, which could cost a lot of money to fix. These problems could make life harder and more expensive for people in all countries.
On the other hand, some think poor countries will suffer more. These countries often don’t have enough money or technology to protect themselves from climate change. Many poor countries depend on farming and tourism, which can be easily damaged by changing weather. Also, people in these countries might not have good healthcare or government help when disasters happen.
I think climate change will affect all countries, but not in the same way. Rich countries have more money and better technology to deal with the problems. However, they won’t be completely safe because the world’s economies are connected. If poor countries have trouble, it will probably affect rich countries too.
In conclusion, climate change is a problem for everyone, but it will likely hurt poor countries more than rich ones. This shows that all countries need to work together to fight climate change and help each other.
(Word count: 252)
Key Writing Tips
-
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and transitions.
-
Vocabulary: The higher band essay uses more advanced vocabulary and collocations (e.g., “far-reaching implications,” “compelling arguments,” “disproportionately affected”). The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
-
Grammar: The Band 8-9 essay showcases a wider range of complex structures, while the Band 6-7 essay relies more on simpler constructions. Both avoid major errors that would impede understanding.
-
Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the prompt, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed and nuanced arguments.
-
Cohesion and Coherence: The higher band essay demonstrates smoother transitions between ideas and more sophisticated linking words.
Important Vocabulary
-
Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/: The action of reducing the severity or seriousness of something.
-
Adaptation (noun) /ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/: The process of changing to suit different conditions.
-
Disproportionately (adverb) /ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃənətli/: To a degree that is too large or too small in comparison with something else.
-
Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/: The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
-
Repercussions (noun) /ˌriːpərˈkʌʃnz/: An unintended consequence of an event or action, especially an unwelcome one.
-
Interconnected (adjective) /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/: Having all parts or elements logically or appropriately connected or related.
-
Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsərbeɪt/: To make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse.
Conclusion
The effects of climate change on the global economy is a complex and multifaceted topic that requires careful consideration in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments and mastering the necessary vocabulary and structures, you can craft a well-rounded and persuasive essay on this subject.
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:
- The role of international cooperation in addressing climate change
- The economic benefits and challenges of transitioning to renewable energy
- The impact of climate change on global food security
Remember to practice regularly and focus on developing your ideas coherently while using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion!