The effects of urbanization on wildlife and natural habitats is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and past exam patterns, this topic has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Its relevance to global environmental concerns makes it a prime candidate for examination. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays for different band scores, focusing on a commonly encountered question type.
Urban sprawl encroaching on wildlife habitat
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that human activities have a negative impact on plant and animal species. Others think that this is a natural occurrence. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that human activities negatively impact plant and animal species
- Discuss the opposing view that this impact is a natural occurrence
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your personal stance.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The relationship between human development and the natural world has long been a subject of debate. While some argue that human activities are detrimental to flora and fauna, others contend that such changes are part of a natural process. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering a personal viewpoint.
Those who believe human actions negatively impact plant and animal species have substantial evidence to support their claim. Urbanization, deforestation, and industrial pollution have led to habitat loss and degradation on an unprecedented scale. For instance, the Amazon rainforest, home to countless species, is being rapidly cleared for agriculture and urban expansion, resulting in the extinction of numerous plant and animal species. Moreover, climate change, largely attributed to human-induced greenhouse gas emissions, is altering ecosystems worldwide, forcing species to adapt or face extinction.
Conversely, proponents of the natural occurrence theory argue that species extinction and environmental changes have been ongoing processes throughout Earth’s history. They point to events like the Ice Age or the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs as examples of natural phenomena causing massive ecological shifts. This perspective suggests that current changes, while influenced by human activities, are part of the Earth’s natural evolutionary cycle.
In my opinion, while natural processes do play a role in shaping ecosystems, the current rate of species loss and habitat destruction is undeniably linked to human activities. The speed and scale of these changes far exceed what would occur naturally, leaving insufficient time for species to adapt. Furthermore, unlike natural disasters, human-induced changes are often sustained and progressive, compounding their impact over time.
In conclusion, while both human activities and natural processes contribute to changes in plant and animal species, the overwhelming evidence points to human actions as the primary driver of current ecological crises. It is crucial that we recognize our role in these changes and take decisive action to mitigate our impact on the natural world. This may involve sustainable urban planning, conservation efforts, and a shift towards more environmentally friendly practices in industry and agriculture.
(Word count: 329)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates key characteristics of a high band score (8-9):
Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion.
Comprehensive answer: All parts of the question are addressed, including both perspectives and a personal opinion.
Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow smoothly with appropriate use of linking words and phrases.
Lexical resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “unprecedented”, “proponents”, “compounding”).
Grammatical range and accuracy: The essay demonstrates a variety of complex structures used accurately.
Task achievement: The essay fully addresses the task, providing a well-developed response with fully extended and well-supported ideas.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Many people think that humans are causing problems for plants and animals, while others believe it’s just a natural thing. This essay will look at both ideas and give my opinion.
Human activities can harm nature in many ways. For example, when we build cities, we cut down forests where animals live. This means they lose their homes. Also, factories and cars create pollution, which can make animals sick and kill plants. Climate change, which is partly caused by humans, is making it hard for some animals to survive in their usual habitats.
On the other hand, some people say that nature has always changed, even without humans. In the past, there were big events like ice ages that changed the environment and caused some animals to die out. They think that what’s happening now is just part of this natural cycle of change.
I think that while nature does change on its own, humans are making things worse and happening too fast. Animals and plants don’t have time to adapt to the changes we’re causing. Also, the problems we create, like pollution, are not natural and wouldn’t happen without us.
In conclusion, I believe that human activities are the main reason for the problems facing plants and animals today. We need to be more careful about how we treat the environment. This could mean using less energy, recycling more, and protecting areas where animals live.
(Word count: 253)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 score:
Structure: The essay has a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
Task response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Cohesion and coherence: There is some use of cohesive devices, but they are less sophisticated than in higher band essays.
Lexical resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but less varied and precise compared to higher band essays.
Grammatical range and accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though there may be some errors.
Development of ideas: Ideas are presented and supported, but with less depth and sophistication than in higher band essays.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Urbanization (noun) /ˌɜːbənaɪˈzeɪʃən/: The process of making an area more urban
- Deforestation (noun) /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃən/: The cutting down of trees in a large area
- Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
- Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
- Habitat loss (noun phrase) /ˈhæbɪtæt lɒs/: The decrease in living space for animals and plants
- Extinction (noun) /ɪkˈstɪŋkʃən/: The state or process of a species ceasing to exist
- Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to maintain at a certain rate or level without depleting resources
- Adaptation (noun) /ˌædæpˈteɪʃən/: The process of change by which an organism becomes better suited to its environment
- Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/: The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something
- Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən/: The protection of plants, animals, and natural areas
Conclusion
The impact of urbanization on wildlife and natural habitats is a critical topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As we’ve seen through these sample essays, the key to success lies in addressing all parts of the question, providing a balanced argument, and supporting your points with relevant examples.
In future exams, you might encounter variations on this theme, such as:
- The role of technology in wildlife conservation
- Balancing economic development with environmental protection
- The effectiveness of international agreements in protecting biodiversity
To improve your writing skills, try crafting your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your approach and gain valuable feedback. Remember, the key to mastering IELTS Writing Task 2 is consistent practice and a deep understanding of the assessment criteria.
For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- Impact of Urbanization on Wildlife Conservation
- How Urbanization is Affecting Global Ecosystems
- The Effect of Climate Change on Biodiversity
Good luck with your IELTS preparation!