Recent IELTS examination trends show that environmental topics, particularly those concerning urbanization’s impact on wildlife, have appeared frequently in Writing Task 2. This theme has been featured in approximately 15% of environment-related questions over the past two years, making it a crucial topic for IELTS candidates to master.
The effects of urbanization on wildlife habitats represent a significant global challenge that IELTS examiners often use to test candidates’ ability to analyze complex environmental issues. Let’s examine a recent IELTS question on this topic:
Some people believe that the development of cities and towns causes serious problems for wildlife. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Provide reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on urbanization’s impact on wildlife
- Support their argument with specific examples
- Demonstrate understanding of environmental consequences
- Provide potential solutions or recommendations
Urban development affecting natural wildlife habitats in modern cities
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The rapid expansion of urban areas has undeniably led to devastating consequences for wildlife populations worldwide. I strongly agree that urban development poses serious threats to wildlife, and this essay will examine the major impacts and their implications.
Firstly, urbanization directly destroys natural habitats through land conversion. When forests, wetlands, and grasslands are transformed into residential areas and commercial complexes, countless species lose their homes and food sources. For instance, the development of Singapore has resulted in the loss of over 95% of its original forest cover, leading to the local extinction of many native species, including the cream-colored giant squirrel and the green broadbill.
Moreover, urbanization effects on wildlife extend beyond habitat destruction. Urban areas create barriers that fragment remaining natural habitats, preventing animal movement and genetic exchange between populations. The construction of highways and urban sprawl has particularly affected large mammals like tigers in India, where urban expansion has isolated populations and increased human-wildlife conflict.
Deforestation effects and solutions must be considered alongside urban planning. Cities also generate pollution that affects wildlife far beyond their boundaries. Light pollution disrupts nocturnal animals’ behavior patterns, while noise pollution interferes with communication among species. Chemical pollutants from urban areas contaminate water bodies, affecting aquatic ecosystems and the entire food chain.
However, solutions exist through intelligent urban planning. The importance of wildlife conservation programs cannot be overstated, and many cities are now incorporating wildlife corridors and green spaces into their development plans. Singapore, despite its earlier losses, has become a model for urban biodiversity conservation through its “City in a Garden” initiative.
In conclusion, while urban development significantly threatens wildlife, implementing wildlife-friendly urban planning and strict conservation measures can help mitigate these impacts. It is crucial for future urban development to prioritize wildlife conservation alongside human needs.
Wildlife corridor implementation in urban development showing green bridges
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I agree that city development creates many problems for wild animals. This essay will discuss the main problems and some possible solutions.
The biggest problem is that when we build cities, we destroy the places where animals live. For example, when trees are cut down to build houses and roads, birds and other animals lose their homes. This is very bad for them because they have nowhere to go.
Another problem is pollution. Cities make a lot of noise and light that disturb animals. Also, garbage and chemicals from cities can make animals sick. For example, in my country, many rivers near cities are polluted, and this kills fish and other water animals.
Cities also make it hard for animals to move around. When we build roads and buildings, we create barriers that animals cannot cross. This means they cannot find food or meet other animals of their species. This is especially bad for big animals like deer and bears.
However, some cities are trying to help wildlife. They make parks and special paths for animals to move safely. They also make rules to protect natural areas. These things can help animals survive in urban areas.
In conclusion, I think city development is very harmful to wildlife, but we can reduce the problems if we plan our cities better and think about animals’ needs.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Clear position with fully developed ideas
- Coherence & Cohesion: Logical organization with effective paragraphing
- Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary with sophisticated expressions
- Grammar: Various complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Clear position but less developed ideas
- Coherence & Cohesion: Basic organization with some paragraph linking
- Lexical Resource: Adequate vocabulary with some repetition
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex sentences with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- Urbanization (n) /ˌɜːbənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process of making an area more urban
- Biodiversity (n) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – variety of plant and animal life
- Habitat fragmentation (n) /ˈhæbɪtæt ˌfræɡmənˈteɪʃən/ – breaking up of natural areas
- Ecosystem (n) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – community of living things
- Conservation (n) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən/ – protection of natural environment
Continue practicing by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments. Future IELTS tests may feature similar questions about urban wildlife conservation or the importance of wildlife corridors for biodiversity.
