Climate change is a critical global issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts. Based on recent trends, it’s highly likely that questions related to international cooperation in addressing climate change will continue to be a popular topic in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a sample question and develop model essays to help you prepare for this important subject.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that international cooperation is the only way to tackle global environmental issues such as climate change. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question asks for your opinion on whether international cooperation is the sole solution to global environmental problems, particularly climate change. It’s an agree/disagree type question, which requires you to clearly state your position and support it with well-developed arguments.
Model Essay for Band 8-9
Climate change is undoubtedly one of the most pressing challenges facing our planet today, and its global nature necessitates a coordinated response. While I largely agree that international cooperation is crucial in addressing this issue, I believe it is not the only factor in effectively combating climate change.
International cooperation is undeniably essential in tackling global environmental problems. Firstly, climate change does not respect national boundaries; greenhouse gas emissions from one country affect the entire planet. Therefore, a unified global approach is necessary to reduce emissions and mitigate their impact. Secondly, collaborative efforts allow for the sharing of resources, technology, and expertise. Developed nations can assist developing countries in adopting cleaner technologies and sustainable practices, ensuring a more comprehensive and equitable response to the crisis.
However, it would be an oversimplification to claim that international cooperation alone can solve these complex issues. Local and national initiatives also play a vital role. Individual countries must implement their own policies and regulations to reduce emissions, protect natural resources, and promote sustainable development. For instance, Norway’s successful electric vehicle incentives demonstrate how national policies can significantly impact environmental outcomes. Moreover, grassroots movements and local community actions are essential in driving change from the bottom up, often inspiring larger-scale initiatives.
Furthermore, the private sector’s involvement is crucial in developing and implementing innovative solutions. Companies investing in renewable energy, sustainable technologies, and eco-friendly products contribute significantly to addressing climate change. While international agreements can provide a framework, it is often businesses and entrepreneurs who drive the practical implementation of these solutions.
In conclusion, while I strongly believe that international cooperation is a cornerstone in addressing global environmental issues like climate change, it is not the sole solution. A multi-faceted approach combining global collaboration, national policies, local actions, and private sector innovation is necessary to effectively combat these complex challenges. Only through such a comprehensive strategy can we hope to create a sustainable future for our planet.
(Word count: 309)
Model Essay for Band 6-7
In today’s world, climate change is a big problem that affects everyone. Many people think that countries working together is the only way to solve this issue. I mostly agree with this idea, but I also believe there are other important ways to help the environment.
Working together internationally is very important for dealing with climate change. This is because pollution from one country can affect the whole world. When countries cooperate, they can make big plans to reduce pollution and protect nature. For example, the Paris Agreement shows how many countries can agree to fight climate change together. Also, rich countries can help poorer countries by sharing new technologies that are better for the environment.
However, I don’t think international cooperation is the only answer. Individual countries also need to take action on their own. Each country should make its own rules to protect the environment. For instance, some countries have banned plastic bags, which helps reduce waste. People in each country can also do their part by recycling, using less energy, and choosing eco-friendly products.
Additionally, companies play a big role in helping the environment. Many businesses are now developing new technologies that are better for the planet, like electric cars and solar panels. These innovations can make a real difference in reducing pollution and saving energy.
In conclusion, while I believe international cooperation is very important for solving global environmental problems like climate change, it’s not the only solution. We need a combination of countries working together, individual country actions, and new ideas from businesses to really make a difference. Everyone has a part to play in protecting our planet.
(Word count: 272)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph development and transitions.
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Vocabulary: The higher band essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases, such as “necessitates,” “mitigate,” and “grassroots movements.” The band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively conveys the main ideas.
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Grammar: The band 8-9 essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures, while the band 6-7 essay uses simpler constructions but maintains grammatical accuracy.
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Task Response: Both essays address the question directly, but the band 8-9 essay provides more nuanced arguments and explores the topic in greater depth.
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Cohesion and Coherence: The higher band essay uses more sophisticated linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. The band 6-7 essay is also coherent but with simpler transitions.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
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Climate change (noun) /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/: Long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns.
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International cooperation (noun phrase) /ˌɪntəˈnæʃənəl kəʊˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/: Countries working together towards a common goal.
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Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/: To make less severe or reduce the negative effects of something.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain level without depleting natural resources.
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Emissions (noun) /ɪˈmɪʃənz/: The production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation.
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Grassroots movement (noun phrase) /ˈɡrɑːsruːts ˈmuːvmənt/: A movement that starts at a local level with ordinary people.
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Innovative (adjective) /ˈɪnəvətɪv/: Introducing new ideas or methods.
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Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/: Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.
Conclusion
The topic of international cooperation in addressing climate change is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of individual actions versus government policies in combating climate change
- The impact of economic development on environmental protection
- The responsibility of developed nations in helping developing countries address climate issues
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.