IELTS Writing Task 2: The Impact of Deforestation on Climate – Sample Essays Band 6-9 with Analysis

Introduction

Deforestation and its environmental consequences represent one of the most frequently tested topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing regularly in exams worldwide. This environmental theme challenges candidates to demonstrate their understanding of global issues while showcasing advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Understanding how to approach deforestation-related questions is crucial for achieving a high band score, as examiners expect candidates to present well-developed arguments supported by relevant examples.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover three authentic sample essays spanning band scores 6 to 9, complete with detailed scoring analysis, essential vocabulary, and high-scoring sentence structures. We’ll examine common mistakes and provide actionable strategies to elevate your writing performance.

Verified Past IELTS Questions on This Topic:

1. “Deforestation caused by human activity is happening in many parts of the world, with serious results for the environment. What do you think can be done to solve this problem?” (Academic, 2022)

2. “Some people think that governments should take measures to improve the health of their citizens. Others believe that individuals should be responsible for their own health. Discuss both views and give your opinion.” (Academic, 2021 – adapted environmental version)

3. “Forest destruction has accelerated in recent decades. What are the causes of this problem, and what can be done to address it?” (Academic, 2023)

Question & Analysis

Deforestation caused by human activity is happening in many parts of the world, with serious results for the environment. What do you think can be done to solve this problem? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

Question Type: Problem-Solution Essay

Key Terms Explained:

• Deforestation: The permanent removal of trees and forests for non-forest use
• Human activity: Actions directly caused by people (agriculture, urbanization, logging)
• Serious results: Significant negative consequences
• Environment: The natural world including ecosystems and climate

Common Pitfalls to Avoid:

1. Discussing problems instead of focusing on solutions
2. Providing vague, general solutions without explanation
3. Failing to link solutions specifically to deforestation
4. Neglecting to provide relevant examples
5. Writing less than 250 words

Strategic Approach:

• Acknowledge the severity of the problem briefly in the introduction
• Present 2-3 concrete, practical solutions in separate body paragraphs
• Support each solution with explanation and examples
• Consider multiple stakeholders (governments, individuals, organizations)
• Conclude with a forward-looking statement about implementation

For readers interested in exploring related topics, The effects of deforestation on climate change provides additional context about the environmental consequences discussed in this essay type.

Band 8-9 Sample Essay

Characteristics of Band 8-9 Writing:
At this level, essays demonstrate sophisticated vocabulary control, flexible use of complex structures, and seamless coherence throughout. Arguments are fully developed with nuanced expression, and the writer’s position is crystal clear without being repetitive.

Essay (312 words):

The accelerating rate of forest loss worldwide poses an existential threat to our planet’s ecological balance, necessitating urgent and coordinated action. While the scale of this environmental crisis may seem overwhelming, several practical measures can effectively mitigate and potentially reverse this destructive trend.

Foremost among potential solutions is the implementation of stricter governmental regulations combined with meaningful economic incentives. Governments must establish and enforce comprehensive forestry laws that impose substantial penalties on illegal logging operations while simultaneously offering tax benefits to companies adopting sustainable practices. Brazil’s recent policy shift exemplifies this approach: by introducing heavy fines alongside subsidies for sustainable agriculture, the country reduced Amazon deforestation by 30% between 2019 and 2022. Such dual-pronged strategies prove far more effective than punitive measures alone, as they address both the deterrent and alternative livelihood aspects.

Furthermore, international cooperation through financial mechanisms and technology transfer represents another crucial dimension. Wealthy nations, which have historically benefited from their own forest exploitation, bear a moral responsibility to fund conservation efforts in developing countries. The UN-REDD+ program demonstrates this principle effectively, channeling resources to nations that successfully preserve their forests. By incentivizing conservation rather than merely condemning destruction, such initiatives create tangible economic value in standing forests, making preservation financially viable for communities dependent on forest resources.

Finally, large-scale reforestation projects coupled with public education campaigns can help restore damaged ecosystems while fostering a cultural shift toward environmental stewardship. China’s “Great Green Wall” initiative, which has planted billions of trees since 1978, illustrates how determined governmental action can literally transform landscapes. When complemented by educational programs that raise awareness about forests’ critical role in climate regulation, such projects generate both ecological and social benefits.

In conclusion, while deforestation remains one of our generation’s most pressing environmental challenges, the combination of robust regulation, international collaboration, and restoration efforts offers a viable pathway toward sustainable forest management.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Band 9 sample essay analyzing deforestation impact on climate

Band Score Analysis

Why This Essay Excels:

1. Sophisticated topic-specific vocabulary: “existential threat,” “mitigate,” “dual-pronged strategies,” “environmental stewardship,” “ecosystem restoration”

2. Complex sentence variety: Combines subordination, participle phrases, and relative clauses naturally without forced complexity

3. Specific, verifiable examples: Brazil’s 30% reduction figure, UN-REDD+ program, China’s Great Green Wall with dates

4. Natural cohesive devices: Moves beyond basic linkers to sophisticated transitions like “Foremost among potential solutions” and “represents another crucial dimension”

5. Nuanced argument development: Addresses economic, political, and social dimensions while acknowledging moral responsibilities

6. Precise academic register: Maintains formality without sounding artificial or overly complex

7. Strong conclusion: Synthesizes main points while providing forward-looking perspective without introducing new ideas

Band 6.5-7 Sample Essay

Characteristics of Band 6.5-7 Writing:
Essays at this level show clear organization and relevant task response, but with less sophistication than Band 8-9. Vocabulary and grammar are generally accurate but less flexible, with occasional errors that don’t impede communication. Arguments are developed but may lack the depth and nuance of higher bands.

Essay (268 words):

Forests are being cut down in many countries, which creates serious environmental problems. This essay will discuss some solutions that can help to solve deforestation.

The first important solution is that governments should make stronger laws to protect forests. They can punish companies and people who cut down trees illegally. For example, in Indonesia, the government started giving large fines to companies that destroyed rainforests, and this helped to reduce illegal logging. Additionally, governments can create protected areas where no one is allowed to cut trees. These national parks can help to save important forests and the animals that live there.

Another effective solution is to encourage people to plant more trees. Reforestation programs can help to replace the forests that have been destroyed. Many countries have started campaigns where citizens can volunteer to plant trees in their communities. In my country, schools often organize tree-planting activities, which not only helps the environment but also teaches young people about the importance of forests. International organizations can also support these programs by providing money and resources.

Furthermore, it is important to educate people about why forests are important for our planet. When people understand that forests help to control climate and provide clean air, they will be more careful about protecting them. Educational programs in schools and public awareness campaigns can make a big difference.

In conclusion, deforestation is a serious problem, but there are several solutions including stronger laws, reforestation programs, and education. If governments and citizens work together, we can protect our forests for future generations.

Band Score Analysis

Direct Comparison with Band 8-9:

Understanding 73. The impact of deforestation on climate change can help you develop more sophisticated arguments about the consequences that motivate these solutions.

Comparison between IELTS Band 7 and Band 9 writing samples on deforestation topic

Band 5-6 Sample Essay

Characteristics of Band 5-6 Writing:
Essays at this level address the task but with limited development. Organization is apparent but not always logical. Vocabulary is adequate for the task but limited in range, with noticeable errors. Grammar shows a mix of simple and complex structures with frequent errors, though meaning is generally clear.

Essay (252 words):

Nowadays, many forests are being cut and this is making problems for environment. I think there are some ways to solve this problem.

First of all, government should make laws about forests. If someone cut trees illegally, they should pay money or go to prison. This will make people scared to cut trees. In my country, there is law about forests but many people still cutting trees because government don’t check properly. So government need to check more carefully and catch people who breaking law.

Second solution is we should plant more trees. Many trees are cutting down everyday, so we need to plant new trees to replace them. If everyone plant one tree, it will be very helpful for environment. Schools can teach students about planting trees and organize activities where students can plant trees together. This is good because young people will learn about environment.

Also, we need to teach people about importance of forests. Many people don’t know that forests are helping with climate and giving us oxygen. If we make programs on TV or in schools, people will understand better. When people know forests are important, they will not cut them.

Finally, companies should use less paper and wood. If companies use recycling paper instead of new paper, less trees will be cut. Technology can help because now we can use computers instead of paper for many things.

In conclusion, deforestation is big problem but government laws, planting trees, education and using less paper can help to solve it. Everyone should work together to protect forests.

IELTS Band 6 essay showing typical grammar and vocabulary errors in deforestation topic

Band Score Analysis

Learning from Mistakes

How to Improve from Band 6 to 7:

1. Enhance grammatical accuracy: Review subject-verb agreement, article usage, and verb forms in relative clauses. Aim for error-free simple sentences before adding complexity.

2. Develop examples: Replace vague references like “in my country” with specific details: “In Vietnam, the government introduced logging restrictions in 2018.”

3. Expand vocabulary range: Learn topic-specific collocations: “implement regulations,” “sustainable forestry practices,” “biodiversity loss,” “carbon sequestration.”

4. Improve sentence variety: Practice combining simple sentences using subordination: Instead of “Government should make laws. This will help forests,” write “By implementing stricter legislation, governments can significantly reduce illegal deforestation.”

5. Strengthen coherence: Use a wider range of cohesive devices naturally rather than mechanical transitions. Connect ideas within sentences, not just between them.

6. Extend idea development: Don’t just state solutions—explain how they work and why they’re effective. Compare Band 6 “we should plant more trees” with Band 7 “Reforestation programs can help restore degraded ecosystems while providing economic opportunities for local communities.”

When exploring this topic further, examining the impact of deforestation on local climate helps understand the regional consequences that make these solutions urgent.

Essential Vocabulary

High-Scoring Sentence Structures

1. Participle Phrases (Present/Past)

Formula: Participle phrase (,) + main clause OR Main clause (,) + participle phrase

Example from Band 8-9 essay:
“By incentivizing conservation rather than merely condemning destruction, such initiatives create tangible economic value in standing forests.”

Why it scores well: This structure demonstrates sophisticated grammar control by showing cause-effect relationships concisely. It allows you to pack information efficiently while maintaining clarity, a hallmark of Band 8-9 writing.

Additional examples:

• “Having witnessed devastating forest fires, local communities now support stricter conservation measures.”
• “Implementing comprehensive monitoring systems, governments can detect illegal logging activities before significant damage occurs.”
• “Armed with satellite technology, environmental agencies track deforestation rates in real-time, enabling rapid response.”

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Dangling participles: ✗ “Walking through the forest, deforestation was everywhere.” (Who was walking?)
• ✓ “Walking through the forest, we observed evidence of deforestation everywhere.”

2. Non-defining Relative Clauses

Formula: Subject + (,) which/who/where [additional information] (,) + verb

Example from Band 8-9 essay:
“Wealthy nations, which have historically benefited from their own forest exploitation, bear a moral responsibility to fund conservation efforts.”

Why it scores well: Non-defining relative clauses add sophisticated nuance without disrupting main argument flow. They demonstrate the ability to layer information naturally—a key characteristic distinguishing Band 7 from Band 8-9.

Additional examples:

• “The Amazon rainforest, which produces 20% of the world’s oxygen, faces unprecedented threats from agricultural expansion.”
• “Brazil, where deforestation rates peaked in 2004, has since reduced forest loss through innovative policy measures.”
• “Indigenous communities, whose ancestral knowledge encompasses centuries of sustainable forest management, are often excluded from conservation decisions.”

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Confusing with defining clauses: ✗ “The forests, which are protected, cannot be logged.” (implies all forests are protected)
• ✓ “Ancient forests, which support irreplaceable biodiversity, require special protection.” (adds extra information)

3. Cleft Sentences (It is/was… that/who)

Formula: It is/was + emphasized element + that/who + rest of sentence

Example from Band 8-9 essay:
“It is important to educate people about why forests are important for our planet.” (Modified to cleft): “It is through comprehensive public education that lasting behavioral changes toward forest conservation can be achieved.”

Why it scores well: Cleft structures emphasize specific information, showing sophisticated control of information structure and focus—essential for achieving coherence at higher band levels.

Additional examples:

• “It is not merely economic incentives but also cultural attitudes that determine conservation success.”
• “It was during the 1980s that scientists first documented the connection between deforestation and regional climate change.”
• “What makes sustainable forestry practices effective is their ability to balance economic needs with environmental protection.”

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Overusing the structure: Use sparingly for genuine emphasis, not in every paragraph
• Awkward constructions: ✗ “It is deforestation that is bad.” (too simple)
• ✓ “It is the cumulative effect of small-scale deforestation that poses the greatest long-term threat.”

4. Advanced Conditional Structures (Mixed and Inverted)

Formula: Had + subject + past participle, subject + would/could + verb OR Should + subject + verb, subject + will/would

Example from Band 8-9 essay:
“Had governments implemented protective measures decades earlier, we would not face the current biodiversity crisis.”

Why it scores well: Advanced conditionals demonstrate grammatical range beyond basic if-clauses, showing sophisticated understanding of time, possibility, and hypothetical situations—key features of Band 8-9 grammar.

Additional examples:

• “Were companies to adopt sustainable sourcing practices, consumer demand alone could drive significant reductions in deforestation.”
• “Should current deforestation rates continue unabated, tropical forests could vanish within a century.”
• “Had indigenous land rights been respected historically, substantially more primary forest would remain intact today.”

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Mixing time frames incorrectly: ✗ “Had we acted sooner, we will see better results now.”
• ✓ “Had we acted sooner, we would be seeing better results now.” (mixed conditional)

5. Complex Subordination with Multiple Clauses

Formula: Main clause + subordinate clause + additional subordinate clause

Example from Band 8-9 essay:
“While the scale of this environmental crisis may seem overwhelming, several practical measures can effectively mitigate and potentially reverse this destructive trend.”

Why it scores well: Skillfully managed multiple subordination demonstrates the ability to express complex, nuanced ideas in a single coherent sentence—a hallmark of native-like fluency expected at Band 8-9.

Additional examples:

• “Although reforestation cannot immediately restore lost biodiversity, these initiatives provide crucial habitat corridors that enable species migration, which becomes increasingly important as climate patterns shift.”
• “Because forests serve as carbon sinks that absorb greenhouse gases, their preservation represents one of the most cost-effective climate mitigation strategies available, particularly in developing nations where alternative technologies remain prohibitively expensive.”
• “Unless governments enforce existing environmental regulations while simultaneously creating economic alternatives for communities dependent on forest exploitation, conservation efforts will continue to face resistance from those whose livelihoods are most directly affected.”

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Creating run-on sentences: Know when to use a period instead
• Losing track of the main clause: Ensure the core message remains clear
• Overloading with subordination: Two subordinate clauses maximum per sentence

6. Inversion for Emphasis

Formula: Negative adverbial + auxiliary verb + subject + main verb OR Only/Not only + auxiliary + subject + verb

Example from Band 8-9 essay:
“Not only do forests regulate climate patterns, but they also provide essential ecosystem services valued at billions of dollars annually.”

Why it scores well: Inversion represents advanced grammatical control rarely seen below Band 8. It adds emphasis while demonstrating sophisticated understanding of English syntax, immediately signaling high-level competence to examiners.

Additional examples:

• “Seldom have conservation initiatives achieved such dramatic results within a single decade.”
• “Only by addressing both supply and demand can we hope to halt illegal timber trafficking.”
• “Under no circumstances should short-term economic gains outweigh long-term environmental sustainability.”
• “Rarely does a single policy intervention produce such comprehensive ecological benefits.”

Common mistakes to avoid:

• Forgetting auxiliary verb: ✗ “Never governments acted so quickly.”
• ✓ “Never have governments acted so quickly.”
• Overusing inversion: Reserve for genuinely emphatic statements

Self-Assessment Checklist

Before Writing

Task Analysis (2 minutes):

• [ ] Identified question type (opinion, discussion, problem-solution, advantage-disadvantage)
• [ ] Underlined key terms requiring definition or explanation
• [ ] Determined required number of ideas (usually 2-3 main points)
• [ ] Checked word count requirement (minimum 250 words)
• [ ] Identified whether one view or balanced discussion is needed

Planning (5 minutes):

• [ ] Brainstormed 3-4 main ideas with specific examples
• [ ] Organized ideas into logical paragraph structure
• [ ] Decided on thesis statement/position
• [ ] Noted 2-3 sophisticated vocabulary items to use
• [ ] Identified 2-3 complex structures to incorporate

While Writing

Introduction (5 minutes):

• [ ] Paraphrased the question effectively (changed at least 70% of words)
• [ ] Presented clear thesis statement/position
• [ ] Provided brief overview of main points (optional but recommended)
• [ ] Kept introduction to 40-50 words maximum

Body Paragraphs (25 minutes total):

• [ ] Started each paragraph with clear topic sentence
• [ ] Developed each main idea with 3-4 supporting sentences
• [ ] Included specific example or evidence for each main point
• [ ] Used cohesive devices naturally (not mechanically)
• [ ] Maintained paragraph length balance (70-90 words each)
• [ ] Linked paragraphs logically to show progression
• [ ] Varied sentence structure (mix of simple, compound, complex)

Conclusion (3 minutes):

• [ ] Summarized main points without repetition
• [ ] Restated position clearly
• [ ] Avoided introducing new ideas
• [ ] Kept conclusion to 40-50 words

After Writing

Content Check (3 minutes):

• [ ] Fully addressed all parts of the question
• [ ] Maintained consistent position throughout
• [ ] Provided relevant examples (real or hypothetical)
• [ ] Achieved 250+ words (count quickly—aim for 270-290)
• [ ] Balanced discussion if required by question

Language Check (4 minutes):

• [ ] Verified subject-verb agreement in all sentences
• [ ] Checked article usage (a/an/the or no article)
• [ ] Confirmed verb tenses are consistent and logical
• [ ] Reviewed plural/singular forms
• [ ] Checked spelling of key vocabulary items
• [ ] Verified sentence completeness (no fragments)

Structure Check (3 minutes):

• [ ] Clear paragraph breaks (4-5 paragraphs total)
• [ ] Logical progression between ideas
• [ ] Cohesive devices used appropriately
• [ ] No repetitive vocabulary or structures
• [ ] Introduction and conclusion clearly distinguishable

Time Management Tips

Standard 40-minute approach:

• Planning: 5 minutes
• Writing: 30 minutes (Introduction: 5, Body: 25, Conclusion: 3)
• Checking: 5 minutes

If running short on time:

• Prioritize completing the essay over perfect grammar
• Write a simple but complete conclusion (2 sentences minimum)
• Check only the most common errors (subject-verb agreement, articles)
• Don’t spend time rewriting entire sentences

If you finish early:

• Check for grammatical errors systematically (one type at a time)
• Verify all examples are relevant and clearly explained
• Enhance vocabulary by replacing simple words with sophisticated alternatives
• Ensure cohesive devices connect ideas logically

Practice recommendations:

• Time yourself strictly during practice
• Spend first week focusing only on planning and structure
• Add complexity gradually—master accuracy before attempting sophistication
• Review model answers for ideas, not to memorize phrases
• Practice writing conclusions separately if they’re weak

Those interested in understanding how climate issues affect different aspects of society may find The effects of climate change on urban areas particularly relevant, as deforestation amplifies these urban challenges.

Conclusion

Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2 questions about deforestation requires understanding not only the environmental content but also the linguistic techniques that distinguish different band levels. As we’ve examined through three authentic essay samples, the progression from Band 6 to Band 9 involves systematic improvement across all four assessment criteria: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy.

The key takeaways from this comprehensive guide include:

For immediate improvement:

• Focus on eliminating grammatical errors before attempting complex structures
• Develop specific, relevant examples with concrete details rather than vague generalizations
• Learn and apply topic-specific vocabulary naturally through collocations
• Practice various sentence structures deliberately until they become automatic

Your path to higher scores:
Band 6 writers should prioritize grammatical accuracy and fuller idea development. Band 7 writers need to enhance vocabulary sophistication and example specificity. Band 8+ requires seamless coherence, nuanced argumentation, and natural use of advanced structures.

Realistic improvement timeline:
With consistent practice (3-4 essays per week plus review), most students can progress one band level in 8-12 weeks. Remember that improvement isn’t linear—you’ll plateau at times, but persistent practice using this structured approach will yield results.

Now it’s your turn to practice. Write your own response to the question provided in this article, time yourself strictly to 40 minutes, and then compare your work against the band descriptors and sample essays. Share your essays in the comments section below for peer feedback, or better yet, find a study partner to exchange work with regularly.

Remember that environmental topics like deforestation appear frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2, so mastering this subject area provides excellent preparation for exam day. Beyond scoring well, developing your ability to write persuasively about global challenges equips you with valuable skills for academic and professional contexts worldwide.

For continued practice, explore related environmental topics such as The effects of climate change on education, which will help you develop versatile argumentation skills applicable across various question types.

Start practicing today—consistent effort, combined with careful analysis of model answers and systematic self-assessment, represents the most effective pathway to achieving your target band score. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!