Electronic waste and environmental protection have become increasingly common topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam questions. This trend reflects the growing global concern about The challenges of managing electronic waste. Let’s examine a recent exam question and analyze sample responses across different band scores.
Electronic waste management challenges in modern urban environments
Question Analysis
Some people believe that manufacturers should be required to repair their electronic products rather than produce new ones. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question addresses the intersection of manufacturing responsibility and environmental sustainability, connecting to broader themes of circular economy for reducing waste in production.
Sample Essays
Band 8.5 Essay Sample
The proliferation of electronic waste has become a pressing environmental concern, and I strongly agree that manufacturers should be obligated to repair their products rather than continuously producing new ones. This approach would yield significant environmental and economic benefits.
Firstly, requiring manufacturers to repair products would substantially reduce electronic waste. When companies are compelled to fix rather than replace items, fewer devices end up in landfills, directly addressing importance of recycling for reducing global waste. For instance, Apple’s recent shift toward providing repair services has prevented millions of devices from becoming waste prematurely.
Moreover, this policy would drive innovation in product design. Manufacturers would be incentivized to create more durable and repairable products, leading to improved quality and longevity. Companies like Fairphone have demonstrated that designing easily repairable electronics is both technically feasible and commercially viable.
However, implementation would require careful consideration. A balanced approach might involve setting reasonable repair timeframes and establishing clear guidelines for when replacement is necessary. This could be achieved through collaborative efforts between industry leaders and environmental regulators.
In conclusion, mandating manufacturers to repair products represents a crucial step toward sustainable electronics consumption. While challenges exist, the environmental benefits far outweigh the implementation difficulties.
Band 6.5 Essay Sample
I agree that companies should repair electronic products instead of making new ones. This idea can help solve many problems we face today.
The main reason is that it reduces waste. When companies fix old products, less electronic waste goes to landfills. This is good for the environment because electronic waste is very harmful. For example, many phones contain dangerous materials that can damage nature.
Also, repairing products can save money for customers. New electronics are expensive, but repairs usually cost less. This helps people keep their devices longer and spend less money.
However, some problems might happen. Companies might not want to do repairs because making new products is easier. Also, some repairs might be too difficult or expensive.
In conclusion, I think making companies repair products is a good idea. It helps the environment and saves money, even though there are some challenges.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (9): Clearly addresses all parts of the task with fully developed positions
- Coherence and Cohesion (8): Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource (9): Sophisticated vocabulary precisely used
- Grammar (8): Wide range of structures with good control
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (6): Addresses the task but with limited development
- Coherence and Cohesion (6): Basic organization with some progression
- Lexical Resource (7): Adequate vocabulary with some precision
- Grammar (7): Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- Proliferation (n) /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃən/ – rapid increase
- Incentivize (v) /ɪnˈsɛntɪvaɪz/ – encourage or motivate
- Feasible (adj) /ˈfiːzəbl/ – possible to do
- Implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmɛnˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- Mandate (v) /ˈmændeɪt/ – to officially require something
Consider practicing with similar topics such as sustainable technology development or corporate environmental responsibility. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.
