The topic of electric cars and their role in reducing pollution has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and the growing global focus on environmental issues, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has been featured in past IELTS exams:
Some people believe that the use of electric cars will help reduce pollution levels in cities. Others, however, argue that electric cars are not a solution to pollution and may even cause more environmental problems. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that electric cars help reduce pollution in cities
- Discuss the opposing view that electric cars are not a solution and may cause more problems
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The debate over the effectiveness of electric vehicles in combating urban pollution has gained significant traction in recent years. While proponents argue that these cars offer a cleaner alternative to traditional combustion engines, critics contend that they may not be the panacea we seek and could potentially exacerbate environmental issues. In my opinion, while electric cars are not without their drawbacks, they represent a crucial step towards reducing pollution in our cities.
Advocates of electric cars point to their zero tailpipe emissions as a primary benefit. Unlike conventional vehicles, electric cars do not emit harmful pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter directly into the urban environment. This reduction in local emissions can lead to improved air quality, particularly in densely populated areas where traffic congestion is a major contributor to pollution. Moreover, as electricity grids increasingly incorporate renewable energy sources, the overall carbon footprint of electric vehicles continues to decrease, further enhancing their environmental credentials.
However, critics raise valid concerns about the environmental impact of electric car production and electricity generation. The manufacturing process of electric vehicle batteries is energy-intensive and requires the extraction of rare earth metals, which can have significant environmental consequences. Additionally, if the electricity used to charge these vehicles comes from fossil fuel-based power plants, it merely shifts the source of pollution rather than eliminating it entirely. There are also concerns about the disposal of spent batteries and the potential for creating new environmental hazards.
Despite these challenges, I believe that electric cars represent a net positive for urban environments. The immediate reduction in local air pollution can have substantial health benefits for city dwellers, potentially decreasing respiratory illnesses and improving overall quality of life. Furthermore, the technology behind electric vehicles and battery production is rapidly evolving, with advancements in recycling techniques and more sustainable manufacturing processes on the horizon. As renewable energy sources become more prevalent in power grids, the environmental benefits of electric cars will only increase.
In conclusion, while electric vehicles are not a perfect solution to urban pollution, they offer a significant improvement over traditional combustion engines. The challenges associated with their production and energy sources should be viewed as opportunities for further innovation rather than insurmountable obstacles. By embracing electric cars as part of a broader strategy to combat pollution, including improved public transportation and urban planning, we can work towards cleaner, healthier cities for future generations.
(Word count: 394)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Complex phrases like “exacerbate environmental issues” and “panacea” showcase advanced vocabulary.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly. Complex sentences are used effectively without errors that impede communication.
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant supporting ideas and examples.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, there has been a big debate about whether electric cars can help reduce pollution in cities. Some people think they are a good solution, while others believe they might cause more problems. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support electric cars say they are much cleaner than normal cars. Electric cars don’t produce exhaust fumes, which means they don’t put harmful gases into the air in cities. This can help improve air quality and make it easier for people to breathe, especially in busy city centers where there is a lot of traffic. Also, as we use more renewable energy like solar and wind power, electric cars will become even cleaner.
However, some people argue that electric cars are not as green as they seem. Making the batteries for electric cars can be bad for the environment because it uses a lot of energy and rare materials. There are also worries about what happens to old batteries when they can’t be used anymore. Another problem is that if the electricity used to charge these cars comes from power plants that burn coal or oil, it’s still causing pollution, just in a different place.
In my opinion, even though electric cars are not perfect, they are still better for reducing pollution in cities than normal cars. The immediate benefit of having cleaner air in urban areas is very important for people’s health. I also think that as technology improves, we will find better ways to make and recycle batteries, and more of our electricity will come from clean sources.
To conclude, while electric cars have some problems, I believe they are a step in the right direction for reducing pollution in cities. We should continue to improve the technology and also look at other ways to make our cities cleaner, like better public transport and more cycling lanes.
(Word count: 309)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both viewpoints and the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are organized logically, with some use of cohesive devices. However, the paragraphing could be more clearly marked.
Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, with some attempts at less common words. However, the language is less sophisticated compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with generally good control. There are fewer complex structures compared to the higher band essay.
Development of Ideas: Main ideas are present and supported, but the development is less thorough than in the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Zero tailpipe emissions (noun phrase): The absence of exhaust gases from a vehicle.
Pronunciation: /ˈziːrəʊ ˈteɪlpaɪp ɪˈmɪʃənz/Carbon footprint (noun): The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities.
Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/Renewable energy sources (noun phrase): Energy sources that are naturally replenished, such as wind or solar power.
Pronunciation: /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi ˈsɔːsɪz/Environmental credentials (noun phrase): Qualities or achievements related to being environmentally friendly.
Pronunciation: /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl krɪˈdenʃəlz/Exacerbate (verb): To make a problem or situation worse.
Pronunciation: /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/Panacea (noun): A solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases.
Pronunciation: /ˌpænəˈsiːə/Combustion engine (noun phrase): An engine that generates mechanical power by burning fuel.
Pronunciation: /kəmˈbʌstʃən ˈendʒɪn/Air quality (noun phrase): The degree to which the air is clean, clear, and free from pollutants.
Pronunciation: /eə ˈkwɒlɪti/
In conclusion, the topic of electric cars and their role in reducing pollution is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of government in promoting electric vehicle adoption
- The impact of electric cars on urban infrastructure
- Comparing electric cars to other eco-friendly transportation options
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and fully address all parts of the question. For additional practice, try writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
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