Urbanization and its impact on natural ecosystems is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject due to its relevance in today’s rapidly developing world. Let’s explore this theme through sample essays for different band scores, focusing on a common question type related to urbanization’s effects on natural ecosystems.
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
As cities continue to grow, they increasingly encroach on natural habitats. Some people argue that urban expansion is necessary for economic growth, while others believe preserving ecosystems should be the priority. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a classic IELTS dilemma, asking candidates to discuss two opposing viewpoints and provide their own perspective. The key aspects to address are:
- The expansion of cities and its impact on natural habitats
- Arguments for urban expansion as a necessity for economic growth
- Arguments for prioritizing ecosystem preservation
- Your personal opinion on the issue
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-scoring example.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9
The rapid growth of urban areas worldwide has led to an ongoing debate about the balance between development and environmental conservation. While some argue that urban expansion is crucial for economic progress, others contend that protecting natural ecosystems should take precedence. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on this complex issue.
Proponents of urban expansion often cite economic growth as a primary justification. They argue that cities are engines of innovation, job creation, and wealth generation. As populations increase, the need for housing, infrastructure, and commercial spaces grows, necessitating the expansion of urban boundaries. This growth can lead to improved living standards, better access to education and healthcare, and increased opportunities for residents. Furthermore, concentrated urban development can potentially reduce overall land use compared to sprawling suburban areas, making it a more efficient use of space.
On the other hand, advocates for ecosystem preservation emphasize the irreplaceable value of natural habitats. They argue that urban encroachment destroys biodiversity, disrupts ecological balance, and contributes to climate change. Natural ecosystems provide essential services such as air and water purification, carbon sequestration, and flood control. Moreover, preserving these areas is crucial for maintaining wildlife populations and genetic diversity, which are vital for the planet’s long-term health. The loss of these ecosystems can have far-reaching consequences that may outweigh short-term economic gains.
In my opinion, while urban development is necessary to accommodate growing populations and drive economic progress, it must be balanced with strong environmental protections. I believe that sustainable urban planning is the key to reconciling these competing interests. Cities can be designed to incorporate green spaces, utilize brownfield sites for development, and implement strict regulations to protect surrounding natural areas. Additionally, innovative technologies and architectural designs can help reduce the environmental footprint of urban areas, allowing for growth without excessive habitat destruction.
In conclusion, the challenge lies in finding a middle ground that allows for urban expansion while safeguarding critical ecosystems. By adopting sustainable practices and prioritizing environmental conservation alongside development, we can work towards a future where economic growth and ecological preservation coexist harmoniously.
(Word count: 345)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
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Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points and offers a balanced perspective.
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Coherent arguments: Each paragraph presents well-developed ideas with relevant examples and explanations.
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Sophisticated vocabulary: The essay uses a range of advanced vocabulary accurately, such as “encroachment,” “biodiversity,” and “carbon sequestration.”
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Complex sentence structures: The writer employs a mix of simple and complex sentences, demonstrating a high level of grammatical control.
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Cohesive devices: Appropriate linking words and phrases are used throughout the essay to ensure smooth transitions between ideas.
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Clear position: The writer’s own opinion is clearly stated and well-supported in the fourth paragraph.
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Task response: All parts of the question are fully addressed, with a thorough discussion of both viewpoints and a well-reasoned personal opinion.
Now, let’s examine a sample essay for a lower band score.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7
Cities are getting bigger and bigger these days, and this is causing problems for nature. Some people think we need to keep building cities for the economy, but others say we should protect the environment first. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one hand, making cities bigger helps the economy grow. When cities expand, they create more jobs and opportunities for people. New buildings and roads are constructed, which gives work to many people. Also, bigger cities can attract more businesses and tourists, which brings in more money. This economic growth can improve people’s lives by providing better services and facilities.
However, expanding cities can harm natural habitats. When we build on natural areas, we destroy the homes of many animals and plants. This can cause some species to become endangered or even extinct. Forests and wetlands are important for cleaning the air and water, and they help prevent flooding. If we lose these natural areas, it can lead to environmental problems that affect everyone.
In my opinion, we need to find a balance between urban growth and protecting nature. I think it’s possible to have economic development without destroying all our natural habitats. Cities can be designed in smarter ways, like building taller buildings instead of spreading out. We can also create parks and green spaces within cities to help wildlife and make cities more livable for people.
To conclude, while urban expansion is important for economic reasons, we shouldn’t ignore the value of natural ecosystems. By using clever planning and sustainable development, we can have both thriving cities and healthy natural environments. This approach will benefit both people and nature in the long run.
(Word count: 292)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates several characteristics that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
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Adequate structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs addressing both views, and a conclusion. However, the development of ideas is less sophisticated than in the higher band essay.
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Relevant ideas: The main points are relevant to the topic, but they lack the depth and specificity of a higher band essay.
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Vocabulary: The essay uses some topic-specific vocabulary, but the range is more limited compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Grammar: There is a mix of simple and complex sentences, with generally good control of grammar. However, there is less variety in sentence structures.
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Cohesion: Basic linking words are used to connect ideas, but the essay could benefit from more sophisticated cohesive devices.
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Task response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a personal opinion. However, the arguments could be more fully developed.
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Tone: The essay maintains an appropriate academic tone throughout.
Key Vocabulary for Urbanization and Ecosystems
To improve your essays on this topic, consider incorporating the following vocabulary:
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
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Ecosystem services (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm ˈsɜːvɪsɪz/: The benefits provided by ecosystems to humans.
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Urban sprawl (noun) /ˈɜːbən sprɔːl/: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas.
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Habitat fragmentation (noun) /ˈhæbɪtæt ˌfræɡmənˈteɪʃən/: The process by which habitat loss results in the division of large, continuous habitats into smaller, more isolated remnants.
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Sustainable development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/: Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
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Green infrastructure (noun) /ɡriːn ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/: A network of green spaces and other environmental features designed and managed to deliver a wide range of ecosystem services.
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Urban heat island (noun) /ˈɜːbən hiːt ˈaɪlənd/: An urban area that is significantly warmer than its surrounding rural areas due to human activities.
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Ecological footprint (noun) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The impact of human activities measured in terms of the area of biologically productive land and water required to produce the goods consumed and to assimilate the wastes generated.
Conclusion
The topic of urbanization’s effects on natural ecosystems is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays that discuss different viewpoints and incorporate relevant vocabulary. Consider exploring related themes such as sustainable city planning, the balance between development and conservation, or innovative solutions for urban environmental challenges.
We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS exam. Remember to focus on clear structure, relevant arguments, and appropriate use of vocabulary and grammar to achieve a higher band score.