The topic of renewable energy and its impact on reducing carbon emissions is increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared in various forms in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject due to its global significance. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and detailed analysis, focusing on a specific question that exemplifies this theme.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people believe that the development of renewable energy sources is crucial for reducing carbon emissions, while others argue that it is not a practical solution. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that renewable energy is crucial for reducing carbon emissions
- Discuss the opposing view that renewable energy is not a practical solution
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
Now, let’s examine sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high band score essay.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The global push towards renewable energy sources as a means to combat climate change has gained significant momentum in recent years. While many advocate for the rapid development of these technologies to reduce carbon emissions, others contend that this approach is impractical. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of renewable energy argue that its development is essential for mitigating climate change. Solar, wind, and hydroelectric power generate electricity without producing greenhouse gases, unlike fossil fuels. As these technologies become more efficient and widespread, they have the potential to significantly reduce a nation’s carbon footprint. Moreover, the renewable energy sector creates jobs and stimulates economic growth, offering a sustainable path for development.
On the other hand, critics argue that renewable energy is not a practical solution for several reasons. The intermittent nature of solar and wind power poses challenges for grid stability and reliability. Additionally, the initial costs of transitioning to renewable infrastructure are substantial, potentially straining government budgets and increasing energy prices for consumers. Some also point out that the production of renewable energy equipment, such as solar panels and wind turbines, involves processes that generate carbon emissions.
In my opinion, while the challenges associated with renewable energy are valid, they are outweighed by the long-term benefits and necessity of reducing carbon emissions. The technology for renewable energy is rapidly advancing, addressing issues of intermittency and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, the environmental cost of continuing to rely on fossil fuels far exceeds the temporary challenges of transitioning to renewables. Governments and industries must invest in research and development to overcome current limitations and accelerate the adoption of clean energy solutions.
In conclusion, the development of renewable energy sources is indeed crucial for reducing carbon emissions. While there are practical challenges to overcome, the potential benefits for the environment and future generations make it an essential path forward. A balanced approach that acknowledges the current limitations while actively working to overcome them is necessary to ensure a sustainable and low-carbon future.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Response: 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. Ideas flow logically, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. For example, “mitigating climate change,” “carbon footprint,” and “grid stability.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately. Complex sentences are handled with confidence.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, many people think that developing renewable energy is very important to reduce carbon emissions. However, others believe it is not a good solution. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, renewable energy can help reduce carbon emissions. Solar panels and wind turbines don’t produce CO2 when they generate electricity. This is much better for the environment than burning coal or oil. Also, as technology improves, renewable energy is becoming cheaper and more efficient. Many countries are now investing in renewable energy projects to help fight climate change.
On the other hand, some people think renewable energy is not practical. One problem is that it can be expensive to set up wind farms or solar panel fields. Some governments and companies might not have enough money for this. Another issue is that renewable energy sources like wind and solar don’t always produce power consistently. This can make it difficult to rely on them completely.
In my opinion, I think renewable energy is very important for reducing carbon emissions, even though there are some challenges. The problems with renewable energy can be solved with more research and investment. The long-term benefits of clean energy are more important than the short-term difficulties. If we don’t reduce carbon emissions, climate change will cause many serious problems in the future.
To conclude, while there are some practical issues with renewable energy, I believe it is crucial for reducing carbon emissions. Governments and companies should work together to overcome the challenges and develop more renewable energy sources. This will help protect our environment for future generations.
(Word count: 270)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates competence in several areas but has room for improvement:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the discussion of each viewpoint could be more developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is organized with clear paragraphing, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes repetitive (e.g., frequent use of “also” and “another”).
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Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but more sophisticated lexical items could be used. Some good uses include “consistently” and “investment.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major grammatical errors.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but they could be elaborated on further with more specific examples or data.
Key Vocabulary
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Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used
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Carbon emissions (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ɪˈmɪʃnz/ – The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
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Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – Make less severe, serious, or painful
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Intermittent (adjective) /ˌɪntəˈmɪtənt/ – Occurring at irregular intervals; not continuous or steady
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Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
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Transition (noun) /trænˈzɪʃn/ – The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another
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Grid stability (noun phrase) /ɡrɪd stəˈbɪləti/ – The ability of an electrical system to return to a state of equilibrium after a disturbance
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Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – 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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Fossil fuels (noun) /ˈfɒsl fjuːəlz/ – A natural fuel such as coal or gas, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms
Conclusion
The impact of renewable energy on reducing carbon emissions is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As demonstrated in the sample essays, this subject allows candidates to showcase their ability to discuss complex issues, present balanced arguments, and express personal opinions.
To prepare for similar topics, consider practicing with these related questions:
- Do you think governments should provide more incentives for individuals and businesses to adopt renewable energy technologies?
- Some people argue that nuclear energy, rather than renewable sources, is the best solution for reducing carbon emissions. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches.
- To what extent do you agree that international cooperation is necessary to effectively combat climate change and reduce global carbon emissions?
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about knowledge of the topic, but also about how well you can structure your ideas, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and develop your arguments. Practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.