The topic of “the role of governments in protecting endangered species” is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam questions and current environmental concerns, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis to help you prepare effectively for your IELTS exam.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s focus on a common question type related to this topic:
Some people believe that governments should spend money protecting endangered species while others think this money should be used for other purposes. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss arguments for government spending on endangered species protection
- Discuss arguments against such spending
- Provide your personal opinion on the issue
Sample Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay
The preservation of endangered species is a critical issue that has sparked debate over government spending priorities. While some argue that funds should be allocated to protect vulnerable wildlife, others contend that these resources could be better used elsewhere. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.
Proponents of government investment in endangered species protection argue that it is our moral obligation to preserve biodiversity. They contend that human activities have led to habitat destruction and climate change, directly threatening countless species. Governments, they assert, have the resources and authority to implement large-scale conservation efforts that individuals or organizations cannot match. Moreover, protecting endangered species often involves preserving entire ecosystems, which can have far-reaching benefits for environmental stability and human well-being.
On the other hand, those who oppose such spending argue that there are more pressing issues demanding government attention and resources. They point to urgent human needs such as healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation as areas where funding could have a more immediate and tangible impact on society. Critics also question the effectiveness of species protection programs, arguing that the high costs of these initiatives do not always yield proportionate results.
In my opinion, while addressing human needs is undoubtedly crucial, the protection of endangered species should remain a priority for government spending. The interconnectedness of ecosystems means that the loss of even a single species can have cascading effects on biodiversity and environmental health. Furthermore, many endangered species play vital roles in their habitats, contributing to ecological balance and providing invaluable ecosystem services that benefit humans indirectly.
A balanced approach that allocates resources to both human welfare and environmental protection is not only possible but necessary for sustainable development. Governments can invest in innovative conservation strategies that also create jobs and stimulate local economies, thereby addressing multiple priorities simultaneously. Additionally, protecting endangered species often involves preserving habitats that offer natural resources and recreational opportunities, contributing to human well-being in the long term.
In conclusion, while the debate over government spending priorities is complex, I believe that the protection of endangered species is a crucial investment in our planet’s future. By safeguarding biodiversity, we not only fulfill our ethical responsibility to other life forms but also secure the ecological foundation upon which human societies depend. Governments must strive to balance immediate human needs with long-term environmental sustainability, recognizing that these goals are ultimately interconnected.
(Word count: 398)
Band 6-7 Essay
The issue of whether governments should spend money on protecting endangered species or use it for other purposes is a complex one. There are valid arguments on both sides, and this essay will discuss these views before giving my own opinion.
Those who support government spending on endangered species protection have several reasons. Firstly, they argue that we have a responsibility to protect animals that are at risk of extinction. Humans have caused many of these problems through activities like deforestation and pollution, so we should try to fix them. Additionally, protecting endangered species often means protecting whole habitats, which can benefit many other plants and animals too.
On the other hand, some people believe that government money should be used for other purposes. They say that there are more important issues like healthcare, education, and poverty that need funding. These problems directly affect human lives and should be prioritized. They might also argue that trying to save every endangered species is too expensive and not always successful.
In my opinion, I think governments should spend money on protecting endangered species, but it needs to be balanced with other priorities. Losing species can have serious effects on ecosystems, which can eventually harm humans too. For example, if bees became extinct, it would greatly impact our food supply. However, I also believe that human needs are important and shouldn’t be ignored.
I think the best approach is to find ways to protect endangered species that also benefit humans. For instance, creating nature reserves can provide jobs and attract tourists, helping local economies. Governments could also invest in research to find more efficient and cost-effective ways of protecting species.
In conclusion, while there are arguments for and against government spending on endangered species protection, I believe it is an important issue that shouldn’t be neglected. However, it’s crucial to balance this with other societal needs and find solutions that can address multiple problems at once.
(Word count: 321)
Band 5-6 Essay
Some people think governments should spend money to protect endangered animals, but others think this money should be used for other things. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
People who want governments to protect endangered species have good reasons. They say we need to save animals from dying out forever. If we don’t help, many animals might disappear, and this is bad for nature. Also, when we protect animals, we often protect the places where they live, which is good for other animals and plants too.
But other people think government money should be used differently. They believe there are more important things to spend money on, like hospitals, schools, and helping poor people. These things help people directly, so they think it’s more important. They also might say that trying to save all endangered animals costs too much money.
I think both sides have good points, but I agree more with protecting endangered species. If we lose too many animals, it can cause big problems for nature, which can also hurt people in the end. For example, if all the bees died, it would be very bad for growing food.
However, I also think it’s important to help people. Maybe governments can find ways to protect animals that also help people, like making parks that create jobs and bring tourists. This way, they can do both things at the same time.
In conclusion, I believe governments should spend money on protecting endangered species, but they should also think about how to help people at the same time. It’s important to find a good balance between these two things.
(Word count: 273)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high band score:
- Clear organization with a well-developed introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
- Sophisticated vocabulary and sentence structures
- In-depth analysis of both viewpoints
- A clear personal opinion with well-supported reasoning
- Coherent ideas with smooth transitions between paragraphs
- Addresses all parts of the task fully
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows features typical of a mid-range band score:
- Good overall organization with clear paragraphs
- Adequate vocabulary with some attempts at more complex expressions
- Covers both viewpoints and presents a personal opinion
- Some development of ideas, though not as in-depth as the Band 8-9 essay
- Generally coherent with some use of linking words
- Addresses all parts of the task, but with less elaboration
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay exhibits characteristics of a lower band score:
- Basic organization with recognizable paragraphs
- Simple vocabulary and sentence structures
- Covers main points but with limited development
- Presents a personal opinion, but with limited support
- Some coherence, but with more basic linking words
- Addresses the task, but in a more simplistic manner
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.
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Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/: The protection of plants and animals, natural areas, and important structures.
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Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/: All the living things in an area and the way they affect each other and the environment.
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Extinction (noun) /ɪkˈstɪŋkʃn/: A situation in which a plant, animal, or way of life stops existing.
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Habitat (noun) /ˈhæbɪtæt/: The natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism.
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Preservation (noun) /ˌprezəˈveɪʃn/: The act of keeping something in its original state or in good condition.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to continue over a period of time without damaging the environment.
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Biodiversity hotspot (noun phrase) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti ˈhɒtspɒt/: A biogeographic region with significant levels of biodiversity that is threatened by human habitation.
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Ecological balance (noun phrase) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈbæləns/: A state of dynamic equilibrium within a community of organisms in which genetic, species and ecosystem diversity remain relatively stable.
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Keystone species (noun phrase) /ˈkiːstəʊn ˈspiːʃiːz/: A species on which other species in an ecosystem largely depend, such that if it were removed the ecosystem would change drastically.
Conclusion
The topic of government’s role in protecting endangered species is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The balance between economic development and environmental protection
- The importance of biodiversity in maintaining ecological balance
- The role of international cooperation in wildlife conservation
- The impact of climate change on endangered species
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.