As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often encounter the question, “Why do people litter?” in speaking practice. It’s a common IELTS topic because it delves into social responsibility, environmental awareness, and individual behavior – all relevant issues for global citizens. Understanding the reasons behind littering can help you formulate strong arguments and demonstrate vocabulary range in your IELTS Speaking test.
Understanding the Issue of Littering
Before diving into the “why,” let’s define littering. It’s the act of discarding waste, such as paper, cans, or food packaging, in an inappropriate place, like streets, parks, or waterways.
Now, why do people do it? There’s no single answer, but here are some contributing factors:
1. Lack of Awareness and Education:
Some individuals might not fully grasp the environmental consequences of littering. They may not understand the harm it causes to wildlife, ecosystems, and even human health.
2. Indifference and Apathy:
Apathy can be a significant contributor. Some people simply don’t care about the impact of their actions on the environment or their community.
3. Convenience and Laziness:
Finding a trash can takes effort. Some people might litter out of sheer convenience, choosing to discard their waste improperly instead of holding onto it or seeking a designated disposal area.
4. Social Norms and Peer Pressure:
In some environments, littering might be sadly commonplace. If everyone else is doing it, individuals might feel less inclined to deviate from the norm.
5. Lack of Enforcement and Infrastructure:
A visible lack of trash cans or infrequent garbage collection can contribute to a littering problem. When there’s no easy or obvious way to dispose of waste properly, people might resort to littering.
Discussing Littering in Your IELTS Speaking Test
Part 1:
If asked about your opinion on littering in Part 1, be clear and concise. You could say:
- “I find littering completely unacceptable. It damages our environment and reflects poorly on our community.”
- “It’s disappointing to see people litter. It shows a lack of respect for our surroundings.”
Part 2:
You might be asked to describe a time you saw someone litter or to discuss the problem of littering in your community. Use this opportunity to demonstrate your vocabulary:
- Instead of “bad,” use: detrimental, harmful, detrimental, irresponsible.
- Instead of “problem,” use: issue, challenge, concern.
- Use examples: “For instance, plastic bottles can end up in our oceans, harming marine life.”
Part 3:
Part 3 often involves a broader discussion. Be prepared to talk about:
- Solutions to littering (e.g., education campaigns, stricter enforcement, community cleanups).
- The role of government and individuals in tackling this issue.
- Your personal efforts to protect the environment.
Tips for Success
- Stay informed: Read about environmental issues to support your answers with real-world examples.
- Practice speaking: Regularly practice discussing this topic with a study partner or tutor.
- Vary your language: Avoid repeating the same words. Use synonyms and descriptive language.
Remember, the IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. By understanding the reasons behind littering and expressing your ideas clearly and fluently, you can demonstrate your language proficiency and achieve a higher band score.