The topic of universal clean energy challenges has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. As global concerns about climate change and sustainable development grow, this subject is likely to appear more frequently in future tests. To help you prepare effectively, we’ll analyze a relevant question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that the development of clean energy technologies is crucial for solving global energy problems. Others argue that changing human behavior and reducing energy consumption is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents two perspectives on addressing global energy issues:
- Developing clean energy technologies
- Changing human behavior and reducing energy consumption
The task requires you to:
- Discuss both viewpoints
- Provide your own opinion
- Support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The global energy crisis is a pressing concern that demands immediate attention. While some advocate for the advancement of clean energy technologies as the primary solution, others emphasize the importance of modifying human behavior and reducing energy consumption. In my opinion, a combination of both approaches is essential for effectively addressing this complex issue.
Proponents of clean energy technologies argue that innovations in renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, are crucial for meeting the world’s growing energy demands sustainably. These technologies offer the potential to generate electricity without the harmful emissions associated with fossil fuels, thereby mitigating climate change and reducing environmental degradation. For instance, countries like Germany and Denmark have made significant strides in implementing wind energy, demonstrating the feasibility of large-scale renewable energy projects. Moreover, advancements in energy storage solutions, such as improved battery technologies, are addressing the intermittency issues often associated with renewable sources.
On the other hand, those who prioritize changing human behavior and reducing energy consumption argue that technological solutions alone are insufficient without a fundamental shift in our energy usage patterns. They contend that overconsumption and wastefulness are root causes of our energy problems, and that addressing these issues could significantly alleviate the pressure on our energy systems. Initiatives such as energy-efficient building designs, public transportation improvements, and consumer education programs can lead to substantial reductions in energy demand. For example, Japan’s “Cool Biz” campaign, which encourages lighter business attire to reduce air conditioning usage, has resulted in significant energy savings and increased awareness of energy conservation.
In my view, a holistic approach that combines both technological innovation and behavioral change is necessary to tackle our global energy challenges effectively. While clean energy technologies provide the means to generate sustainable power, changes in human behavior ensure that this energy is used efficiently and responsibly. Governments should invest in research and development of renewable energy sources while simultaneously implementing policies that incentivize energy conservation and promote sustainable lifestyles.
In conclusion, the development of clean energy technologies and the modification of human behavior are both integral components of a comprehensive solution to our global energy problems. By embracing both approaches, we can create a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for generations to come.
(Word count: 377)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and fully addresses all parts of the task, warranting a Band 8-9 score:
- Task Response: The essay discusses both viewpoints comprehensively and provides a clear personal opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked using appropriate cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “renewable energy sources” and “energy conservation.”
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly, with only minor errors.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The global energy problem is a big issue today. Some people think that developing clean energy technologies is the best way to solve this problem, while others believe that changing how people use energy is more important. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
Clean energy technologies, like solar and wind power, are important because they can provide energy without polluting the environment. These technologies can help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, which are bad for the planet. For example, many countries are now building more wind farms and solar panels to generate electricity. This is good because it can help fight climate change and create new jobs in the green energy sector.
However, some people argue that changing human behavior is more important. They say that even if we have clean energy, we still need to use less energy overall. This means doing things like turning off lights when we’re not using them, using public transport instead of cars, and buying energy-efficient appliances. These changes can help reduce energy consumption and save money. For instance, some cities have started campaigns to encourage people to save energy, and this has helped reduce electricity use.
In my opinion, both approaches are necessary to solve the global energy problem. We need new clean energy technologies to provide sustainable power, but we also need to change our habits to use energy more wisely. I think governments should invest in developing new clean energy sources and also educate people about how to save energy in their daily lives.
To conclude, developing clean energy technologies and changing human behavior are both important in solving global energy problems. By doing both, we can create a more sustainable future for everyone.
(Word count: 293)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates good writing skills but has some limitations, placing it in the Band 6-7 range:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes repetitive or mechanical.
- Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but more sophisticated and less common words could have been used.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, with some errors that do not impede communication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
-
Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.
-
Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time.
-
Energy efficiency (noun) /ˈenədʒi ɪˈfɪʃənsi/: The use of less energy to perform the same task or produce the same result.
-
Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities of a particular individual, organization, or community.
-
Fossil fuels (noun) /ˈfɒsəl fjuːəlz/: Natural fuels such as coal or gas, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms.
-
Energy conservation (noun) /ˈenədʒi ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən/: The practice of using less energy or using it more efficiently.
-
Intermittency (noun) /ˌɪntəˈmɪtənsi/: The quality of stopping and starting at irregular intervals, often used in reference to renewable energy sources.
-
Sustainable development (noun) /səˌsteɪnəbəl dɪˈveləpmənt/: Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
-
Energy storage (noun) /ˈenədʒi ˈstɔːrɪdʒ/: The capture of energy produced at one time for use at a later time.
-
Grid parity (noun) /ɡrɪd ˈpærəti/: The point at which alternative means of generating electricity is at the same cost or cheaper than grid power.
In conclusion, mastering the topic of universal clean energy challenges is crucial for success in IELTS Writing Task 2. Practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government in promoting clean energy adoption
- The economic impacts of transitioning to renewable energy sources
- Balancing environmental concerns with energy needs in developing countries
- The potential of emerging clean energy technologies
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you refine your writing abilities and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, check out our articles on the role of renewable energy in meeting global energy demands and how renewable energy is powering the global economy.