IELTS Writing Task 2: Plastic Pollution – Band 9.0 Sample with Full Breakdown

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Prompt

Some people believe that the government should take action to reduce plastic pollution, while others argue that individuals should be responsible for this issue. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a position but lacks development and clarity.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are somewhat organized but lack logical flow.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Limited range of vocabulary with some errors.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Frequent grammatical errors and simple sentence structures.

Answer

Plastic pollution is a big problem. Some people think the government should do something about it. Others say it is the responsibility of individuals. I think both should do something.

The government can make laws to stop plastic pollution. For example, they can ban plastic bags. This will make people use paper bags instead. Also, the government can make recycling easier. If people can recycle more, there will be less plastic waste.

But individuals can also do things. They can use less plastic. For example, they can buy things that are not in plastic. They can also recycle more. If everyone does this, it will help a lot.

In conclusion, both the government and individuals should do something about plastic pollution. If they work together, it will be better for the environment.

Band 7.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with some development and examples.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Adequate range of vocabulary with some errors.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Some grammatical errors but generally accurate.

Answer

Plastic pollution is a significant environmental issue that requires immediate attention. While some argue that governments should take the lead in addressing this problem, others believe that individuals should be held accountable. In my opinion, both parties share responsibility.

Governments have the power to implement policies that can significantly reduce plastic pollution. For instance, they can enforce stricter regulations on plastic production and disposal. Additionally, governments can invest in better waste management systems and promote recycling programs. These measures can have a substantial impact on reducing plastic waste.

On the other hand, individuals also play a crucial role in combating plastic pollution. Simple actions like using reusable bags, bottles, and containers can make a difference. Moreover, individuals can participate in community clean-up events and support organizations that advocate for environmental protection. By taking personal responsibility, individuals can contribute to a cleaner and healthier planet.

In conclusion, both governments and individuals must take action to reduce plastic pollution. Only through collective effort can we hope to mitigate the adverse effects of plastic waste on our environment.

Band 8.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with well-developed arguments and examples.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and effective use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Adequate range of vocabulary with few errors.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Generally accurate with a mix of simple and complex sentence structures.

Answer

The proliferation of plastic pollution has become a pressing global issue, necessitating urgent action from both governments and individuals. While some contend that governmental intervention is paramount, others assert that personal responsibility is key. I firmly believe that both entities must collaborate to effectively address this environmental crisis.

Governments possess the authority and resources to enact sweeping changes that can significantly curtail plastic pollution. For example, they can legislate bans on single-use plastics and impose stricter regulations on plastic production. Furthermore, governments can allocate funds for research and development of biodegradable alternatives to plastic. These measures can set a precedent for sustainable practices and encourage public compliance.

Conversely, individuals are not absolved from responsibility. Personal choices and actions can cumulatively lead to substantial reductions in plastic waste. For instance, opting for reusable products, participating in local recycling initiatives, and minimizing plastic consumption can make a tangible difference. Additionally, individuals can influence others by advocating for eco-friendly practices and supporting environmental causes.

In conclusion, the onus of reducing plastic pollution lies with both governments and individuals. A synergistic approach, where policies and personal actions align, is essential for achieving a sustainable and plastic-free future.

Band 9.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear, informed, and supported position with extensive development and examples.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and effective use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Sophisticated vocabulary with precise usage and minimal errors.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Accurate use of a wide range of sentence structures.

Answer

The ubiquitous presence of plastic pollution has reached alarming proportions, necessitating a concerted effort from both governmental bodies and individual citizens. While proponents of governmental action argue for top-down solutions, advocates of personal responsibility emphasize the role of individual actions. I contend that a multifaceted approach, encompassing both governmental policies and personal commitments, is indispensable for mitigating the deleterious effects of plastic pollution.

Governments, as the primary architects of societal frameworks, are uniquely positioned to enact sweeping changes that can significantly ameliorate the plastic pollution crisis. For instance, the implementation of stringent regulations on plastic production and disposal can curtail the rampant use of single-use plastics. Moreover, governments can invest in innovative waste management technologies and promote public awareness campaigns to foster a culture of sustainability. These measures not only address the root causes of plastic pollution but also set a precedent for global environmental stewardship.

However, the responsibility of individuals cannot be overlooked. Personal actions, though seemingly inconsequential, can cumulatively lead to substantial reductions in plastic waste. For example, the adoption of reusable products, participation in community recycling programs, and mindful consumption habits can significantly diminish one's plastic footprint. Furthermore, individuals can serve as catalysts for change by advocating for eco-friendly practices and supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation.

In conclusion, the mitigation of plastic pollution necessitates a synergistic approach, where governmental policies and personal actions converge to create a sustainable and plastic-free future. Only through collective effort and unwavering commitment can we hope to preserve our planet for future generations.

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Ubiquitous: Present, appearing, or found everywhere.

• Example: The ubiquitous presence of plastic pollution is a global concern.

1. Deleterious: Harmful or damaging.

• Example: The deleterious effects of plastic pollution on marine life are well-documented.

1. Ameliorate: Make something bad or unsatisfactory better.

• Example: The government aims to ameliorate the plastic pollution crisis through new regulations.

1. Rampant: Flourishing or spreading unchecked.

• Example: The rampant use of single-use plastics is a major environmental issue.

1. Curtail: Reduce in extent or quantity; impose a restriction on.

• Example: The new policy aims to curtail the use of plastic bags.

1. Stewardship: The responsible planning and management of resources.

• Example: Environmental stewardship is essential for preserving our planet.

1. Catalyst: A person or event that quickly precipitates a particular event or series of events.

• Example: Individuals can serve as catalysts for change in environmental conservation.

1. Conservation: The careful preservation and protection of something, especially from loss or waste.

• Example: Supporting organizations dedicated to environmental conservation is crucial.

1. Sustainability: The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.

• Example: A culture of sustainability is essential for a plastic-free future.

1. Footprint: The impact of human activity on the environment, arising from resource extraction, manufacturing, transportation, and disposal.

• Example: Mindful consumption habits can significantly diminish one's plastic footprint.

1. Precipitates: Cause something to happen suddenly or unexpectedly.

• Example: The new policy precipitates a significant reduction in plastic waste.

1. Architects: People who plan, design, or direct something.

• Example: Governments, as the primary architects of societal frameworks, can enact sweeping changes.

1. Innovative: Introducing new ideas; original and creative in thinking.

• Example: Governments can invest in innovative waste management technologies.

1. Awareness: Knowledge or perception of a situation or fact.

• Example: Public awareness campaigns can foster a culture of sustainability.

1. Mindful: Careful or attentive.

• Example: Mindful consumption habits can significantly diminish one's plastic footprint.

Common Mistakes

1. Lack of Clear Position: Failing to present a clear stance on the issue.
2. Inadequate Development: Not providing sufficient examples or explanations to support arguments.
3. Poor Organization: Ideas are not logically organized, leading to a disjointed response.
4. Limited Vocabulary: Using a narrow range of vocabulary, often repeating the same words.
5. Grammatical Errors: Frequent grammatical mistakes that detract from the overall quality of the response.

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