Climate change and environmental protection have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam questions. Based on analysis of past papers and current global trends, questions about climate action and intergenerational responsibility are likely to remain significant. Understanding how to effectively address these topics is crucial for achieving a high band score.
The role of education in addressing climate change has emerged as a key focus area in recent IELTS examinations. Let’s examine a frequently appearing question type:
Some people believe that the current generation should take responsibility for protecting the environment for future generations. Others argue that future generations should solve their own environmental problems. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss two contrasting viewpoints about environmental responsibility
- Present balanced arguments for both perspectives
- Provide a clear personal opinion
- Support arguments with relevant examples
Sample Essays
Band 8.5 Essay
Climate change poses an unprecedented threat to our planet, and there is ongoing debate about whether the present generation should bear primary responsibility for environmental protection or if future generations should handle their own ecological challenges. While both perspectives have merit, I strongly believe that our current generation must take immediate action to safeguard the environment.
Those who advocate for deferring environmental responsibility to future generations argue that technological advancement will provide better solutions. They contend that future societies will likely develop more efficient carbon capture technologies and renewable energy systems, making them better equipped to address environmental challenges. The importance of access to clean energy will likely be better understood and implemented by future generations with superior technology.
However, I firmly believe that the current generation has a moral obligation to act now. Firstly, the effects of climate change on marine life and ecosystems are already severe and potentially irreversible. Waiting for future generations to solve these problems could lead to catastrophic consequences, including mass extinction of species and irreparable damage to vital ecosystems. Secondly, our present actions directly impact future environmental conditions. By reducing carbon emissions and implementing sustainable practices now, we can prevent the escalation of environmental problems.
Moreover, the importance of wildlife protection for future generations cannot be overstated. Our current choices regarding conservation and environmental protection will determine what natural heritage remains for future generations. It would be irresponsible and unethical to burden them with problems we created while having the means to address them now.
In conclusion, while future generations may indeed develop better environmental solutions, our immediate action is crucial. We must act as responsible stewards of the environment, implementing sustainable practices and policies that protect our planet for generations to come.
Current generation implementing environmental protection strategies
Band 6.5 Essay
In today’s world, there is a big discussion about who should take care of environmental problems. Some people think we should do it now, while others say future generations should handle it. I think both sides have good points, but I believe we need to act now.
People who think future generations should solve environmental problems say they will have better technology. They think new inventions will help them clean the air and water better than we can now. Also, they might find better ways to make clean energy and stop pollution.
However, I think waiting is dangerous. If we don’t do anything now, the problems will get worse. Climate change is already causing many problems like floods and storms. Animals are dying and forests are disappearing. We can’t wait for future generations to fix these problems because it might be too late.
Also, it’s not fair to make future generations clean up our mess. We are the ones making pollution and cutting down trees. We should take responsibility for our actions. If we start protecting the environment now, future generations will have a better world to live in.
To conclude, even though future generations might have better technology, we need to start protecting the environment now. It’s our responsibility to make sure they have a healthy planet to live on.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Task Response (9): Fully addresses all parts with well-developed arguments
- Coherence and Cohesion (8): Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource (8): Wide vocabulary range used naturally
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (9): Complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Task Response (7): Addresses main points but less developed
- Coherence and Cohesion (6): Basic organization with some progression
- Lexical Resource (6): Adequate vocabulary with some repetition
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (7): Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- unprecedented (adj) /ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/ – never known or done before
- stewardship (n) /ˈstjuːədʃɪp/ – responsible management of resources
- catastrophic (adj) /kætəˈstrɒfɪk/ – involving or causing sudden great damage
- irreversible (adj) /ˌɪrɪˈvɜːsəbl/ – not able to be changed back
- escalation (n) /ˌeskəˈleɪʃn/ – rapid increase
- ecological (adj) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl/ – relating to the environment
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over time without damage
- irresponsible (adj) /ˌɪrɪˈspɒnsəbl/ – not thinking about consequences
Consider practicing with similar topics such as:
- The role of international cooperation in addressing climate change
- Environmental education in schools
- Individual vs. governmental responsibility for environmental protection
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
