IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays: Water Scarcity Challenges and Solutions – Band 6 to 9 Examples

Water scarcity has emerged as a critical global issue frequently appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on analysis of past exam patterns from the British Council and IDP, questions about water conservation and management have appeared in approximately 15% of environmental-themed tasks since 2019. Let’s examine a common question type that tests candidates’ ability to analyze causes and propose solutions.

The challenges of reducing water scarcity remains one of the most pressing environmental concerns globally, making it a highly relevant topic for IELTS examination.

In many parts of the world, access to clean drinking water is becoming increasingly difficult. What do you think are the causes of this problem and what measures could governments and individuals take to address it?

Question Analysis

This question requires a two-part response addressing:

1. Causes of limited access to clean drinking water
2. Solutions at both governmental and individual levels

The question type is “problem and solution” requiring candidates to:

• Identify key causes
• Propose relevant solutions
• Balance discussion between government and individual actions

Effects of climate change on freshwater availability significantly impact this global challenge.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)

Climate change and rapid urbanization have created unprecedented challenges in accessing clean drinking water globally. This essay will examine the primary causes of this crisis and suggest potential solutions at both governmental and individual levels.

The main drivers of water scarcity are both natural and human-induced. Climate change has altered precipitation patterns and increased the frequency of droughts, while population growth has placed immense pressure on existing water resources. Additionally, industrial pollution and agricultural runoff have contaminated many freshwater sources, making them unsafe for consumption. These factors combined have created a perfect storm that threatens water security worldwide.

Governments must take decisive action through comprehensive policy measures. They should invest in modern water treatment infrastructure and implement strict regulations on industrial waste disposal. Furthermore, international cooperation is essential for managing shared water resources and developing innovative technologies for water purification and conservation. What practical solutions exist for water conservation is a crucial question that demands immediate attention.

Individuals also play a vital role in addressing this crisis. People can adopt water-saving practices in their daily lives, such as fixing leaky faucets, installing water-efficient appliances, and practicing responsible water consumption. Education about water conservation should begin at schools to instill these values early in life.

In conclusion, while the challenges of water scarcity are complex, a combination of governmental policies and individual actions can help ensure sustainable access to clean water for future generations.

Government and individual actions addressing water scarcity challenges

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)

Water problems are becoming very serious in many countries today. There are several causes and solutions that we need to think about.

The main reason for water problems is pollution. Factories release chemicals into rivers and lakes, making the water dirty. Also, many people waste water in their daily life, like taking long showers or leaving taps running. Another problem is that some countries don’t have good water systems.

The government should make strict rules about pollution and build better water systems. They can fine companies that pollute water and spend money on cleaning rivers and lakes. They should also teach people about saving water.

People can help by using less water at home. They should take shorter showers and fix leaking taps. Also, they can collect rainwater for gardens and avoid throwing garbage in water bodies.

In conclusion, water problems are caused by both pollution and waste. If governments and people work together, we can solve these problems.

Analysis of Band Scores

Band 8.5 Essay Features:

• Sophisticated vocabulary: “unprecedented,” “comprehensive,” “decisive”
• Complex sentence structures
• Clear paragraph organization
• Strong coherence and cohesion
• Balanced analysis of causes and solutions

Band 6.5 Essay Features:

• Simple but clear vocabulary
• Basic sentence structures
• Some development of ideas
• Limited use of cohesive devices
• Adequate but simple organization

Key Vocabulary

1. Unprecedented (adj) /ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/ – never known or done before
2. Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical systems of a country
3. Contaminate (v) /kənˈtæmɪneɪt/ – make something impure by exposure to pollution
4. Urbanization (n) /ˌɜːbənaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – process of making an area more urban
5. Conservation (n) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – prevention of wasteful use of a resource

High-scoring Sentence Patterns

1. Complex Cause-Effect:
   “Climate change has not only altered precipitation patterns but has also intensified the frequency of extreme weather events.”

2. Parallel Structure:
   “Governments must invest in infrastructure, implement regulations, and promote conservation awareness.”

3. Conditional with Multiple Clauses:
   “If appropriate measures are not taken to address water scarcity, communities worldwide will face severe consequences in the coming decades.”

Remember to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.