IELTS Writing Task 2: Plastic Pollution - Band 6.5 Sample with Full Breakdown

Related guides:

• IELTS Writing Task 2 Renewable Energy Two Part Question…
• IELTS Writing Task 2 Deforestation Two Part Question Sample…
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Recycling (Discussion) — Band 6/7/8/9…
• IELTS Writing Task 2 Renewable Energy Agree Disagree Sample…
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Plastic Pollution (Advantages…

Full Prompt

Some people believe that the increasing use of plastic is causing serious environmental problems. Others argue that the benefits of plastic outweigh the drawbacks. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6.5 Sample Answer

Plastic pollution has become a significant issue in recent years, with many people arguing that its negative impacts outweigh its benefits. However, others believe that plastic is essential for modern life. This essay will discuss both views before presenting my opinion.

On one hand, plastic pollution is a serious problem. Firstly, plastic waste often ends up in oceans, harming marine life. For example, sea turtles and other animals mistake plastic bags for food, leading to their deaths. Secondly, plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to landfill overflow. Additionally, the production of plastic releases harmful chemicals into the air, contributing to air pollution.

On the other hand, plastic has many benefits. Firstly, it is lightweight and durable, making it ideal for packaging and transportation. This reduces fuel consumption and lowers carbon emissions. Secondly, plastic is used in medical equipment, such as syringes and IV bags, which are essential for saving lives. Without plastic, these medical advancements would not be possible.

In conclusion, while plastic pollution is a serious issue, the benefits of plastic cannot be ignored. However, I believe that the negative impacts outweigh the positive ones. Governments and individuals must take action to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment.

Band 7.0 Sample Answer

The proliferation of plastic in our daily lives has led to significant environmental concerns. While some argue that the advantages of plastic are indispensable, others contend that the environmental damage is too severe to ignore. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting a personal stance.

Proponents of plastic highlight its versatility and durability. Firstly, plastic is lightweight and strong, making it ideal for packaging and transportation. This reduces fuel consumption and lowers carbon emissions. Secondly, plastic is used in medical equipment, such as syringes and IV bags, which are essential for saving lives. Without plastic, these medical advancements would not be possible. Additionally, plastic is used in construction, electronics, and many other industries, contributing to economic growth and technological progress.

However, the environmental impact of plastic cannot be overlooked. Firstly, plastic waste often ends up in oceans, harming marine life. For example, sea turtles and other animals mistake plastic bags for food, leading to their deaths. Secondly, plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to landfill overflow. Additionally, the production of plastic releases harmful chemicals into the air, contributing to air pollution. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a massive collection of plastic waste in the Pacific Ocean, is a stark reminder of the severity of this issue.

In conclusion, while plastic has many benefits, the environmental damage it causes is too severe to ignore. Governments and individuals must take action to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment. This could include implementing stricter regulations on plastic production, promoting recycling programs, and investing in research for biodegradable alternatives.

Band 8.0 Sample Answer

The ubiquity of plastic in contemporary society has sparked a contentious debate regarding its environmental implications. While some advocate for the indispensable role of plastic in modern life, others contend that its ecological footprint is unsustainable. This essay will critically evaluate both viewpoints before presenting a nuanced perspective.

Advocates of plastic highlight its unparalleled utility and cost-effectiveness. Firstly, plastic's lightweight and durable nature makes it an ideal material for packaging and transportation, significantly reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Secondly, plastic is integral to the medical field, with applications ranging from syringes to IV bags, which are crucial for patient care. Moreover, plastic's versatility extends to construction, electronics, and various other industries, driving economic growth and technological innovation. The convenience and affordability of plastic products have also enhanced the quality of life for many people, making it an indispensable part of modern living.

Conversely, the environmental consequences of plastic use are alarming. The proliferation of single-use plastics has led to a global waste crisis, with millions of tons of plastic waste entering our oceans annually. This debris poses a severe threat to marine life, with countless animals succumbing to ingestion or entanglement. Furthermore, the decomposition of plastic can take hundreds of years, leading to the accumulation of microplastics in soil and water, which can enter the food chain and potentially harm human health. The production of plastic also contributes to air and water pollution, exacerbating climate change and other environmental issues. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a vast accumulation of plastic waste in the Pacific Ocean, is a stark testament to the severity of this problem.

In conclusion, while the benefits of plastic are undeniable, the environmental damage it inflicts is untenable. A balanced approach is required, one that acknowledges the utility of plastic while mitigating its environmental impact. Governments should implement stricter regulations on plastic production and promote recycling programs. Additionally, investment in research for biodegradable alternatives and public awareness campaigns can help reduce plastic waste. By taking these steps, we can strike a balance between the benefits of plastic and the need to protect our environment.

Scoring Breakdown

Band 6.5 Answer

Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Presents a clear position but with limited development. The arguments are relevant but not fully extended.

Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Uses some cohesive devices effectively, but there are some issues with organization and progression.

Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Uses a mix of appropriate and less accurate vocabulary. Some attempts at less common vocabulary are made, but there are some errors.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms, but with frequent errors in grammar and punctuation.

Band 7.0 Answer

Task Response (TR): 6.5 - Presents a clear position with some development. The arguments are relevant and extended with some supporting ideas.

Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 7.0 - Uses cohesive devices effectively, but there are some issues with organization and progression.

Lexical Resource (LR): 7.0 - Uses a range of vocabulary appropriately, with some less common vocabulary used effectively. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 7.0 - Uses a range of simple and complex sentence forms, but with some errors in grammar and punctuation.

Band 8.0 Answer

Task Response (TR): 7.5 - Presents a clear position with thorough development. The arguments are relevant, extended, and supported with appropriate examples.

Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Uses cohesive devices effectively, with a clear progression and organization of ideas.

Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary appropriately, with some less common vocabulary used effectively. There are some minor errors, but they do not impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Uses a range of simple and complex sentence forms accurately, with some errors in grammar and punctuation, but they do not impede communication.

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Proliferation (noun): rapid increase in the number or amount of something.

• Example: The proliferation of plastic waste in our oceans is a growing concern.

1. Ubiquity (noun): the fact of being everywhere, especially at the same time; omnipresence.

• Example: The ubiquity of plastic in our daily lives is undeniable.

1. Indispensable (adjective): absolutely necessary.

• Example: Plastic is indispensable in the medical field.

1. Versatility (noun): the quality of being able to adapt to many different functions or activities.

• Example: The versatility of plastic makes it an ideal material for various industries.

1. Durability (noun): the ability to withstand wear, pressure, or damage; durability.

• Example: The durability of plastic makes it a popular choice for packaging.

1. Decomposition (noun): the process of rotting or decomposing.

• Example: The decomposition of plastic can take hundreds of years.

1. Entanglement (noun): the state of being tangled or twisted together.

• Example: Marine animals often suffer from entanglement in plastic waste.

1. Microplastics (noun): very small pieces of plastic that pollute the environment.

• Example: Microplastics can enter the food chain and potentially harm human health.

1. Mitigate (verb): to make less severe, serious, or painful.

• Example: Governments should take steps to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic.

1. Biodegradable (adjective): capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.

• Example: Research into biodegradable alternatives to plastic is crucial.

1. Striking a balance (phrase): achieving a compromise or equilibrium between two opposing forces or desires.

• Example: We need to strike a balance between the benefits of plastic and the need to protect the environment.

1. Economic growth (noun): an increase in the production of goods and services in an economy.

• Example: The use of plastic has contributed to economic growth.

1. Technological innovation (noun): the introduction of new ideas, devices, or methods.

• Example: Plastic has driven technological innovation in various industries.

1. Quality of life (noun): the standard of health, comfort, and happiness experienced by an individual or group.

• Example: The convenience and affordability of plastic products have enhanced the quality of life for many people.

1. Ecological footprint (noun): the overall impact of human activities measured in terms of the area of biologically productive land and water required to produce the goods consumed and to absorb the wastes generated by those activities.

• Example: The ecological footprint of plastic is unsustainable.

1. Contentious (adjective): causing or likely to cause disagreement or conflict.

• Example: The use of plastic is a contentious issue.

1. Stark (adjective): harsh or uncompromising in nature or appearance.

• Example: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is a stark reminder of the severity of plastic pollution.

1. Tenenable (adjective): incapable of being defended or justified.

• Example: The environmental damage caused by plastic is untenable.

1. Nuanced (adjective): characterized by subtle differences or shades of meaning.

• Example: A nuanced perspective on the use of plastic is required.

1. Implementation (noun): the process of putting a decision or plan into effect; execution.

• Example: The implementation of stricter regulations on plastic production is necessary.

Common Mistakes

1. Lack of Clear Position: Many students fail to present a clear position in their essays. It is essential to state your opinion explicitly and support it with relevant arguments.

1. Inadequate Development of Arguments: Some students present relevant arguments but fail to develop them fully. Each argument should be extended with supporting ideas, examples, or evidence.

1. Poor Organization and Cohesion: Many students struggle with organizing their ideas coherently and using cohesive devices effectively. A clear structure and logical progression of ideas are crucial for a high score.

1. Limited Vocabulary: Some students use a limited range of vocabulary, which can make their essays repetitive and less engaging. Using a wide range of appropriate vocabulary can enhance the quality of your writing.

1. Grammatical Errors: Many students make frequent grammatical errors, which can impede communication and lower their scores. Proofreading your essay for grammar and punctuation errors is essential.

Get Your Own Response Scored by AI on English AIdol

Practice makes perfect. Get your own IELTS Writing Task 2 response scored by AI on English AIdol and receive detailed feedback to improve your score.