Renewable energy technologies have become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends, we can expect this theme to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past exams and is likely to resurface:
Some people think that the best way to solve global environmental problems is to increase the cost of fuel for cars and other vehicles. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analysis of the Question
This question addresses the intersection of environmental concerns and economic policies, specifically focusing on the role of fuel pricing in combating global environmental issues. It requires candidates to:
- Understand the connection between fuel consumption and environmental problems
- Consider the effectiveness of increasing fuel costs as a solution
- Evaluate potential consequences and alternatives
- Form and express a clear opinion on the proposed strategy
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Climate change and environmental degradation are undoubtedly among the most pressing issues facing our planet today. While some argue that raising fuel prices is the most effective solution to these problems, I believe that this approach, though potentially beneficial, is not sufficient on its own to address the complex challenges we face.
Increasing the cost of fuel for vehicles could indeed have some positive environmental impacts. Higher prices would likely discourage excessive driving, potentially leading to reduced carbon emissions and air pollution. Moreover, it might incentivize the development and adoption of more fuel-efficient vehicles and alternative transportation methods, such as electric cars or public transit systems. These outcomes would undoubtedly contribute to mitigating some environmental concerns.
However, relying solely on fuel price hikes oversimplifies the multifaceted nature of global environmental problems. Firstly, this approach disproportionately affects lower-income individuals who may have limited alternatives for transportation, potentially exacerbating social inequalities. Secondly, it fails to address other significant sources of environmental damage, such as industrial pollution, deforestation, and unsustainable agriculture practices.
A more comprehensive and effective approach would involve a combination of strategies. This could include investing in renewable energy technologies, implementing stricter emissions standards for industries, promoting sustainable urban planning, and educating the public about environmental conservation. Additionally, governments could use revenues from higher fuel taxes to fund these initiatives, creating a more holistic solution.
In conclusion, while increasing fuel costs may play a role in addressing environmental issues, it should not be viewed as the sole or primary solution. A multifaceted approach that considers the complexity of environmental challenges and their socio-economic implications is essential for achieving sustainable, long-term results.
(Word count: 277)
Diverse renewable energy solutions for environmental problems
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Environmental problems are a big concern nowadays, and some people think that making fuel more expensive is the best way to solve these issues. While I agree that this could help to some extent, I don’t think it’s the only solution we should consider.
Increasing fuel prices might have some positive effects on the environment. When fuel costs more, people might drive less or choose to use public transportation more often. This could lead to less pollution from cars and other vehicles. Also, it might encourage car companies to make more fuel-efficient vehicles, which would be good for the environment in the long run.
However, there are some problems with this approach. First, it would make life harder for people who don’t have a lot of money and need to drive for work or other important reasons. It’s not fair to put all the burden on these people. Second, making fuel more expensive doesn’t solve all environmental problems. There are other things that harm the environment, like factories and cutting down forests, which this solution doesn’t address.
I think we need to look at other ways to help the environment too. For example, governments could invest more in renewable energy like solar and wind power. They could also make laws to reduce pollution from factories and encourage people to recycle more. Education is also important – if people understand why protecting the environment is important, they might be more willing to make changes in their daily lives.
In conclusion, while making fuel more expensive might help a little bit with environmental problems, it’s not the only or best solution. We need to think about many different ways to protect our planet and make sure that our solutions are fair for everyone.
(Word count: 276)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Environmental problems are very serious today. Some people think making fuel more expensive is the best way to fix these problems. I partly agree with this idea, but I also think there are other things we should do.
Making fuel cost more might help the environment in some ways. If fuel is expensive, people might not drive as much. This could mean less pollution from cars. Also, people might buy cars that use less fuel, which is good for the environment.
But there are problems with this idea too. It’s not fair for poor people who need to drive for work. They might not be able to afford expensive fuel. Also, making fuel expensive doesn’t fix all environmental problems. There are other things that hurt the environment, like factories and cutting down trees.
I think we need to do other things to help the environment. Governments should use more clean energy like solar power. They should also make rules to stop factories from polluting too much. Teaching people about the environment is important too. If people know more, they might try harder to protect the environment.
In conclusion, making fuel more expensive might help a little bit, but it’s not the only thing we should do. We need to think of many different ways to protect our environment.
(Word count: 211)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Task Achievement: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position throughout. Presents a fully developed position with relevant, extended and supported ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Skillfully manages paragraphing. Uses a wide range of cohesive devices appropriately.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary naturally and flexibly. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Task Achievement: Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others. Presents a relevant position, though conclusions may become unclear or repetitive.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Arranges information and ideas coherently and there is a clear overall progression. Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical.
- Lexical Resource: Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task. Attempts to use less common vocabulary but with some inaccuracy.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Makes some errors in grammar and punctuation but they rarely reduce communication.
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Task Achievement: Addresses the task only partially. The format may be inappropriate in places. Expresses a position but the development is not always clear and there may be no conclusions drawn.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression. Makes inadequate, inaccurate or over-use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task. May make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses only a limited range of structures. Attempts complex sentences but these tend to be less accurate than simple sentences. May make frequent grammatical errors and punctuation may be faulty.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Environmental degradation (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/: The deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources.
Incentivize (verb) /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/: To motivate or encourage someone to do something.
Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/: Having many different aspects or features.
Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsərbeɪt/: To make a problem or situation worse.
Holistic (adjective) /həʊˈlɪstɪk/: Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected and can be explained only by reference to the whole.
Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used.
Carbon emissions (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ɪˈmɪʃnz/: The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Fuel-efficient (adjective) /ˈfjuːəl ɪˈfɪʃnt/: Designed to use fuel economically.
Public transit (noun) /ˈpʌblɪk ˈtrænzɪt/: A system of transport for passengers by group travel systems available for use by the general public.
IELTS Writing Task 2 practice session
In conclusion, the future of renewable energy technologies is likely to remain a significant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government in promoting renewable energy
- The impact of renewable energy on job markets
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection
- The challenges of transitioning to a renewable energy-based economy
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam.
For more information on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- The Role of Renewable Energy in Reducing Air Pollution
- Impact of Renewable Energy on Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
- Should Renewable Energy be Subsidized by Governments?
Remember, consistent practice and familiarization with a wide range of environmental topics will greatly enhance your performance in the IELTS Writing Task 2.