International organizations play a crucial role in addressing global poverty, making this topic a frequent subject in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on recent trends and historical data from past IELTS exams, questions related to this theme have appeared consistently and are likely to continue doing so. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you tackle this important subject effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that international organizations should focus more on poverty reduction programs in developing countries, while others think they should prioritize environmental protection. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that international organizations should focus on poverty reduction
- Discuss the view that they should prioritize environmental protection
- Provide your own opinion on which approach is more important
Let’s break down the key elements:
- International organizations
- Poverty reduction programs
- Developing countries
- Environmental protection
- Balancing priorities
Sample Essay (Band 8-9)
International organizations face the challenging task of allocating resources between poverty reduction and environmental protection. While both issues are undeniably critical, this essay will argue that a balanced approach is necessary, with a slight emphasis on poverty alleviation as a foundation for sustainable development.
Those who advocate for a focus on poverty reduction argue that eliminating extreme poverty is a moral imperative and a prerequisite for addressing other global challenges. They contend that lifting people out of poverty enables them to participate more fully in education, healthcare, and economic activities, creating a ripple effect that benefits entire communities and nations. Moreover, reducing poverty can indirectly contribute to environmental protection by decreasing reliance on unsustainable practices such as deforestation for subsistence farming.
On the other hand, proponents of prioritizing environmental protection argue that climate change and ecological degradation pose existential threats to humanity, including the world’s poorest populations. They maintain that without immediate action to preserve ecosystems and mitigate climate change, efforts to reduce poverty will be undermined by environmental disasters, resource scarcity, and displacement. Furthermore, they argue that environmental protection often creates new economic opportunities, such as green jobs and sustainable industries, which can contribute to poverty reduction.
In my opinion, while both perspectives have merit, a nuanced approach that prioritizes poverty reduction as a foundation for sustainable development is most effective. By first addressing basic human needs and creating economic stability, international organizations can build the capacity and resilience necessary for communities to engage in long-term environmental stewardship. However, this focus on poverty should not come at the expense of environmental considerations. Integrating environmental awareness and sustainable practices into poverty reduction programs can create synergies that address both issues simultaneously.
In conclusion, international organizations should strive for a balanced approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of poverty and environmental issues. By prioritizing poverty reduction with an embedded focus on sustainability, these organizations can lay the groundwork for lasting improvements in both human well-being and environmental health.
(Word count: 309)
International organizations addressing global poverty
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
International organizations have to decide whether to focus more on reducing poverty or protecting the environment in developing countries. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Some people think that international organizations should concentrate on poverty reduction programs. They believe that helping poor people is the most important thing because it can improve their lives quickly. When people have enough money and food, they can send their children to school and get better healthcare. This can help whole countries to develop and become stronger.
However, others argue that environmental protection should be the main priority. They say that if we don’t take care of the environment now, it will cause big problems in the future, especially for poor countries. Climate change can lead to natural disasters and make it harder for people to grow food. Protecting the environment can also create new jobs in areas like renewable energy.
In my opinion, both poverty reduction and environmental protection are important, but I think poverty reduction should come first. When people are very poor, they can’t think about the environment because they are just trying to survive. If we help them out of poverty first, they will be in a better position to care for the environment later. However, I also think that poverty reduction programs should include some environmental education to make sure people understand why it’s important.
To conclude, while both issues are crucial, I believe international organizations should focus slightly more on poverty reduction, but always keep environmental concerns in mind. This way, we can help people now and also protect the planet for the future.
(Word count: 268)
Key Points to Consider When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.
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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.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates stronger coherence by linking ideas more explicitly and using a wider range of cohesive devices.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more in-depth analysis and a more nuanced opinion.
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Examples: The Band 8-9 essay incorporates more specific examples and explanations to support its arguments.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
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Poverty reduction (noun phrase) – /ˈpɒvəti rɪˈdʌkʃən/ – The act of decreasing the number of people living in poverty.
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Environmental protection (noun phrase) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl prəˈtekʃən/ – Actions taken to safeguard the natural world.
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Sustainable development (noun phrase) – /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – Economic growth that doesn’t deplete natural resources.
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Prioritize (verb) – /praɪˈɒrɪtaɪz/ – To arrange items or tasks in order of importance.
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Allocate resources (verb phrase) – /ˈæləkeɪt rɪˈsɔːsɪz/ – To distribute money or materials for a specific purpose.
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Ecosystem (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – A community of living organisms and their environment.
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Mitigation (noun) – /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/ – The action of reducing the severity or seriousness of something.
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Synergy (noun) – /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – The interaction of elements that, when combined, produce a total effect greater than the sum of individual elements.
Conclusion
The Role Of International Organizations In Combating Global Poverty is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key issues and practicing with sample essays like those provided, you can improve your ability to address this theme effectively in your exam. Remember to balance your discussion of poverty reduction and environmental protection, and always support your arguments with clear examples and explanations.
As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with similar topics that may appear in future tests, such as:
- The effectiveness of international aid in reducing global inequality
- The role of technology in addressing poverty in developing countries
- The impact of globalization on poverty rates in different regions
We encourage you to write your own essay on the topic provided in this article and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, you may find these articles helpful:
Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
