As an IELTS Writing Task 2 expert, I’m here to guide you through crafting compelling essays on the role of public policy in promoting renewable energy. This topic has been increasingly prevalent in recent IELTS exams and is likely to appear more frequently in the future due to its global relevance. Let’s dive into a sample question and explore how to approach it effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that the government should take measures to encourage the use of alternative sources of energy. Others think that people should be free to choose the type of energy they want to use. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a classic IELTS dilemma, asking you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints and provide your own perspective. The topic focuses on the government’s role in promoting alternative energy sources versus individual freedom of choice in energy consumption.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
In recent years, the debate over government intervention in promoting renewable energy has intensified. While some argue for strong governmental measures to encourage alternative energy adoption, others advocate for individual freedom in energy choices. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government intervention argue that the shift towards renewable energy is crucial for environmental sustainability and requires decisive action from authorities. They contend that without significant policy measures, such as subsidies for solar panels or tax incentives for electric vehicles, the transition to cleaner energy sources would be too slow to address pressing environmental concerns. Furthermore, they believe that government regulations can create a level playing field for renewable energy companies, fostering innovation and reducing costs over time.
On the other hand, those favoring individual choice argue that energy decisions should be left to consumers and the free market. They maintain that government intervention can lead to inefficiencies and higher costs for consumers. Additionally, they argue that technological advancements and market forces will naturally drive the adoption of cleaner energy sources as they become more cost-effective and accessible.
In my opinion, while individual choice is important, the urgency of addressing climate change necessitates a balanced approach with significant government involvement. I believe that well-designed policies can accelerate the transition to renewable energy without unduly infringing on personal freedoms. For instance, governments could implement carbon pricing mechanisms that internalize the environmental costs of fossil fuels, allowing consumers to make more informed choices while incentivizing cleaner alternatives.
In conclusion, while the debate between government intervention and individual choice in energy matters is complex, I believe that a nuanced approach combining policy measures with market incentives is the most effective way to promote renewable energy adoption. This balanced strategy can help achieve environmental goals while respecting consumer preferences and driving innovation in the energy sector.
(Word count: 298)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Now, let’s look at an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
Nowadays, there is a big discussion about how to use more clean energy. Some people think the government should make rules to help this, but others say people should choose their own energy. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
First, many people believe the government should do more to support clean energy. They think that if the government doesn’t help, not enough people will use things like solar panels or electric cars. The government can make laws to help companies that make clean energy and give money to people who use it. This could make more people use clean energy faster.
However, other people think it’s not good for the government to control energy choices. They say that people should be free to choose what kind of energy they want to use. They also think that if clean energy is really good, people will start using it without the government telling them to. They worry that government rules might make energy more expensive for everyone.
In my opinion, I think the government should help a little bit, but not control everything. The government can give information about clean energy and maybe some money to help people buy it. But they shouldn’t force people to use only one type of energy. This way, people can still choose, but they might choose clean energy more often.
To conclude, I believe that the government and people should work together to use more clean energy. The government can help make it easier to use, but people should still have the freedom to choose what’s best for them.
(Word count: 263)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, 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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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases like “environmental sustainability,” “decisive action,” and “carbon pricing mechanisms.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively communicates the main ideas.
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Grammar: The higher-band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler constructions but still maintains clarity.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words and phrases, but the Band 8-9 essay shows more sophisticated connections between ideas.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more nuanced opinion.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
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Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.
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Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time.
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Incentive (noun) /ɪnˈsentɪv/: Something that motivates or encourages someone to do something.
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Carbon pricing (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈpraɪsɪŋ/: A method of charging for carbon emissions to reduce their production.
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Subsidy (noun) /ˈsʌbsədi/: Money given by a government or organization to support an activity or business.
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: The introduction of new ideas, methods, or products.
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Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/: The action of becoming involved in a situation to improve it or prevent it from getting worse.
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Efficiency (noun) /ɪˈfɪʃnsi/: The state or quality of being efficient, of working productively with minimum wasted effort or expense.
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Fossil fuels (noun) /ˈfɒsl fjuːəlz/: Fuels such as coal or oil, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms.
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Alternative energy (noun) /ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv ˈenədʒi/: Energy derived from sources other than fossil fuels.
In conclusion, mastering essays on public policy and renewable energy requires a good understanding of the topic, strong language skills, and the ability to present balanced arguments. Practice writing essays on similar topics, such as government roles in environmental protection or the economic impacts of renewable energy adoption. Remember to post your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and to enhance your learning experience!