IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays: The Benefits of Organic Farming Practices (With Band 6-9 Examples)

Organic farming has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms across recent test papers. Based on analysis of past exams, questions about sustainable agriculture and organic farming methods have appeared approximately 2-3 times per year since 2019. Let’s examine one frequently tested question format before exploring sample responses.

Question Analysis

Some people believe that organic farming methods should completely replace conventional farming methods. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

This question requires candidates to evaluate the proposition of fully transitioning to organic farming practices. The key aspects to address include:

• The advantages and limitations of organic farming
• The current role of conventional farming
• The feasibility of complete replacement
• The potential impacts on food security and economics

Comparison of organic farming and conventional agricultural practices

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

The debate between organic and conventional farming methods has intensified as environmental concerns grow. While organic farming offers significant benefits, I disagree that it should entirely replace traditional agricultural practices.

Organic farming demonstrates several compelling advantages. For example, it eliminates harmful chemical pesticides and fertilizers, thereby protecting soil health and biodiversity. As discussed in studies about the importance of organic farming for health, organically grown produce contains fewer pesticide residues and potentially higher nutrient levels. Furthermore, organic methods promote sustainable land use and reduce environmental pollution.

However, completely replacing conventional farming with organic methods presents significant challenges. Most critically, organic farming typically yields lower crop volumes per hectare, which could threaten global food security, particularly in developing nations. Additionally, organic products’ higher costs make them inaccessible to many consumers, potentially exacerbating food inequality. The impact of urban farming on food security demonstrates these complex relationships between farming methods and food accessibility.

Instead of complete replacement, I advocate for a balanced approach. Governments should encourage organic farming through incentives and support programs while maintaining conventional farming where necessary. This hybrid system would allow us to maximize the benefits of both methods while ensuring food security and environmental protection. The role of technology in sustainable farming shows how both approaches can be integrated effectively.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

There is much discussion about whether organic farming should replace conventional farming methods completely. In my opinion, while organic farming has many benefits, it should not completely replace traditional farming.

Organic farming has several advantages. Firstly, it is better for the environment because it doesn’t use chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Secondly, organic food is healthier for people to eat. Finally, organic methods help protect wildlife and insects.

However, there are problems with only using organic farming. The main issue is that organic farms produce less food than conventional farms. This means we might not grow enough food for everyone. Also, organic food is more expensive, so many people cannot afford it. Some farmers might lose money if they have to change to organic methods.

I think the best solution is to use both organic and conventional farming. We can use organic methods where possible, but keep conventional farming in places where we need to produce more food. This way, we can protect the environment while still growing enough food for everyone.

Band Score Analysis

Band 8-9 Essay Analysis

• Task Response: Presents clear position with fully developed arguments
• Coherence/Cohesion: Logical organization with effective paragraphing
• Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary (“exacerbating”, “incentives”)
• Grammar: Complex structures used accurately

Band 6-7 Essay Analysis

• Task Response: Clear position but less detailed support
• Coherence/Cohesion: Basic organization with some linking
• Lexical Resource: Adequate but simpler vocabulary
• Grammar: Mix of simple and complex structures

Key Vocabulary

1. sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – capable of being maintained long-term
2. biodiversity (n) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – variety of plant and animal life
3. pesticide residues (n) /ˈpestɪsaɪd ˈrezɪdjuːz/ – remaining traces of chemicals
4. exacerbate (v) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – make worse
5. incentives (n) /ɪnˈsentɪvz/ – motivating factors

Conclusion

The topic of organic farming remains crucial for IELTS candidates. For practice, try writing responses to these related questions:

• Should governments provide more support for organic farmers?
• Do the benefits of organic food justify its higher cost?
• How can developing countries balance traditional and organic farming methods?

Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.