IELTS Writing Task 2: Carbon Footprint — Band 6.5 Sample with Full Breakdown

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Prompt

Some people believe that reducing carbon footprint is an individual responsibility, while others think it's the government's duty. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Band 6.5 Sample Answer

In many countries, the issue of carbon footprint has become a hot topic. Some people argue that each person should be responsible for reducing their own carbon footprint, while others believe that it is the government's duty to enforce regulations. I agree that both individuals and governments play crucial roles in this matter.

On one hand, individuals can make a significant impact by changing their daily habits. For example, using public transportation instead of driving cars can reduce carbon emissions. Moreover, reducing the use of plastic bags and recycling can also help decrease waste. In my opinion, these are simple steps that everyone can take to contribute to a healthier environment. However, some people might find it difficult to change their lifestyle, especially if they are used to convenience.

On the other hand, governments have the power to implement policies that can have a broader impact. For instance, they can invest in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Additionally, they can impose stricter regulations on industries that produce high levels of pollution. In my country, the government has recently introduced a carbon tax, which has encouraged many companies to adopt greener practices. Therefore, I believe that governments should take the lead in addressing this issue.

In conclusion, while individuals can make a difference by changing their habits, governments have a greater responsibility to enact policies that can significantly reduce carbon footprints. Both parties must work together to combat this global problem effectively.

Scoring Breakdown

Task Response (Band 6):

• Addresses all parts of the task but may not always fully extend or support ideas.
• Presents a clear position but with some limitations in depth and development.

Coherence & Cohesion (Band 6):

• Arranges information and ideas coherently but with some inconsistencies in coherence.
• Uses cohesive devices effectively but may occasionally overuse certain devices or make inaccurate connections.

Lexical Resource (Band 7):

• Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey ideas but with some less precise word choices.
• Makes occasional errors in word choice and collocation.

Grammar (Band 7):

• Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms but with frequent errors in sentence formation.
• Makes some errors in grammar and punctuation but generally maintains clarity.

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Carbon footprint (noun): The total amount of greenhouse gases produced by human activities.

• Example: Reducing our carbon footprint is essential for combating climate change.

1. Enforce (verb): To make sure that people obey a law or rule.

• Example: The government needs to enforce stricter regulations on pollution.

1. Renewable energy sources (noun): Energy sources that are naturally replenished, such as solar and wind power.

• Example: Investing in renewable energy sources is crucial for a sustainable future.

1. Impose (verb): To introduce a rule, law, or tax.

• Example: The government imposed a carbon tax to reduce emissions.

1. Greener practices (noun): Methods or activities that are more environmentally friendly.

• Example: Many companies are adopting greener practices to reduce their carbon footprint.

1. Stricter regulations (noun): Rules that are more strict and enforceable.

• Example: Stricter regulations on industries can help reduce pollution.

1. Broader impact (noun): A wider or more significant effect.

• Example: Governments can have a broader impact through policy changes.

1. Daily habits (noun): Regular activities or behaviors.

• Example: Changing daily habits can help reduce carbon emissions.

1. Convenience (noun): The state of being able to do something easily and quickly.

• Example: Some people find it difficult to change their lifestyle due to convenience.

1. Healthier environment (noun): An environment that is better for living things.

• Example: Simple steps can contribute to a healthier environment.

1. Pollution (noun): The introduction of harmful substances into the environment.

• Example: Industries produce high levels of pollution.

1. Combating (verb): To take action against something harmful.

• Example: Both parties must work together to combat this global problem.

1. Greenhouse gases (noun): Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming.

• Example: Reducing greenhouse gases is essential for climate change mitigation.

1. Recycling (noun): The process of converting waste into reusable material.

• Example: Recycling can help decrease waste and reduce carbon footprint.

1. Public transportation (noun): Transport services available to the general public, such as buses and trains.

• Example: Using public transportation can reduce carbon emissions.

Common Mistakes

1. Lack of Depth: Many students provide surface-level arguments without exploring the topic in depth.
2. Inconsistent Coherence: Some responses may have logical flow but lack consistent coherence throughout.
3. Overuse of Cohesive Devices: Students often repeat the same cohesive devices, making the writing less varied.
4. Less Precise Vocabulary: Using words that are not specific enough can reduce the clarity and impact of the argument.
5. Grammar Errors: Frequent errors in sentence formation and punctuation can detract from the overall quality of the response.

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