Clean water access is a critical global issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. As an IELTS instructor, I’ve observed this topic’s increasing relevance in recent years, and I predict it will continue to be a common theme in future exams. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this important subject.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that governments should be responsible for ensuring access to clean water for all citizens, while others think it should be the responsibility of individuals and private companies. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question addresses the debate over who should bear the responsibility for providing clean water access. It requires you to:
- Discuss the view that governments should be responsible
- Discuss the view that individuals and private companies should be responsible
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Remember to address all parts of the question and support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations.
Model Essay (Band 8-9)
Access to clean water is a fundamental human right, yet millions of people worldwide still lack this basic necessity. The debate over who should bear the responsibility for ensuring clean water access – governments or private entities – is a complex one with valid arguments on both sides.
Those who advocate for government responsibility argue that clean water is a public good and a basic human right that should not be subject to market forces. Governments have the resources, authority, and obligation to implement large-scale infrastructure projects and regulations necessary to provide and maintain clean water systems. For instance, in Singapore, the government has successfully implemented a comprehensive water management system, including desalination plants and water recycling facilities, ensuring a sustainable water supply for its citizens.
On the other hand, proponents of private sector involvement contend that market-driven solutions can lead to more efficient and innovative water management. Private companies may have the expertise and financial resources to develop advanced water treatment technologies and infrastructure. For example, in Manila, Philippines, the privatization of water services in the late 1990s led to significant improvements in water access and quality for millions of residents.
In my opinion, the most effective approach to ensuring universal access to clean water involves a collaborative effort between governments and the private sector. Governments should establish the regulatory framework and basic infrastructure, while private companies can contribute their expertise and resources to improve efficiency and innovation. This hybrid model has proven successful in countries like Chile, where the government maintains ownership of water resources while private companies manage distribution and treatment under strict regulations.
In conclusion, while both government and private sector involvement have their merits, a balanced approach that leverages the strengths of both is likely to yield the best results in addressing the global challenge of clean water access.
(Word count: 295)
Government and private sector collaboration for clean water access
Model Essay (Band 6-7)
The issue of who should be responsible for providing clean water to people is a topic of much debate. Some believe it should be the government’s job, while others think individuals and private companies should handle it. Both sides have good points to consider.
Those who say the government should be responsible argue that clean water is a basic human need and right. Governments have the power and resources to build big water systems and make sure everyone has access to clean water. They can also make laws to protect water sources from pollution. For example, in many developed countries, the government provides clean tap water to most homes.
On the other hand, people who think individuals and private companies should be responsible say that this can lead to better service and new ideas. Private companies might be able to manage water systems more efficiently and come up with new ways to clean and deliver water. Some countries have had success with private water companies providing services to people.
In my opinion, I think both the government and private sector should work together to provide clean water. The government should make sure there are good laws and basic systems in place, while private companies can help make things work better and bring new ideas. This way, we can use the strengths of both to make sure everyone has access to clean water.
To conclude, while there are good arguments for both government and private responsibility, I believe a mix of both is the best way to solve the problem of clean water access for everyone.
(Word count: 268)
Key Considerations When Writing
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and cohesion.
Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still conveys the main ideas effectively.
Examples: Both essays provide examples to support their arguments, but the Band 8-9 essay offers more specific and diverse examples from different countries.
Opinion: Both essays clearly state the writer’s opinion, but the Band 8-9 essay provides a more nuanced view and explains the reasoning in more detail.
Coherence: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates stronger coherence and cohesion through the use of linking words and phrases, creating a smoother flow of ideas.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Access (noun) /ˈækses/ – the right or opportunity to use or benefit from something
- Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
- Privatization (noun) /ˌpraɪvətaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – the transfer of a business, industry, or service from public to private ownership and control
- Regulatory framework (noun phrase) /ˈreɡjələtɔːri ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – a system of regulations and the means to enforce them, established by a government or other authority
- Collaboration (noun) /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/ – the action of working with someone to produce or create something
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – the action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
- Desalination (noun) /diːˌsælɪˈneɪʃn/ – the process of removing salt from seawater to make it suitable for drinking or irrigation
- Universal (adjective) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl/ – relating to or done by all people or things in the world or in a particular group; applicable to all cases
- Hybrid (adjective) /ˈhaɪbrɪd/ – of mixed character; composed of mixed parts
Conclusion
The topic of government responsibility in ensuring access to clean water is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. As you practice writing essays on this subject, consider exploring related themes such as water conservation efforts and challenges in managing water scarcity. These interconnected issues can provide valuable context and examples for your essays.
To further improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay based on the question provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates. This active practice will help you refine your skills and gain confidence in tackling similar topics in the actual exam.
