Climate change and natural disasters have become increasingly prominent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam questions, topics related to importance of disaster preparedness programs have appeared frequently, particularly between 2019-2023. Let’s examine a recent question that highlights this critical issue.
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Question Analysis
Some people believe that governments should focus more on preparing for natural disasters rather than dealing with their aftermath. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on disaster preparedness vs. response
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Consider both preparation and aftermath management
- Provide a balanced discussion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The critical importance of proactive disaster management cannot be overstated in today’s world of increasing climate-related catastrophes. While both preparation and response are essential aspects of disaster management, I strongly agree that governments should prioritize preparedness measures.
The role of technology in disaster recovery has demonstrated that preventive measures are more cost-effective and efficient than reactive approaches. For instance, Japan’s extensive earthquake early warning systems and building codes have significantly reduced casualties during seismic events. Similarly, Bangladesh’s cyclone preparedness program has dramatically decreased storm-related deaths through advanced warning systems and community training.
Furthermore, impact of natural disasters on community resilience studies show that well-prepared communities recover faster. When governments invest in infrastructure reinforcement, emergency response training, and public awareness campaigns, communities become more resilient and self-sufficient during crises. For example, New Zealand’s comprehensive disaster preparedness strategy has enabled communities to respond effectively to earthquakes with minimal external assistance.
However, it would be imprudent to completely neglect post-disaster response capabilities. A balanced approach is necessary, with greater emphasis on preparation while maintaining adequate response mechanisms. The success of this strategy is evident in countries like the Netherlands, where flood prevention infrastructure works alongside well-organized emergency response systems.
In conclusion, while both aspects deserve attention, the focus should predominantly be on preparation. This approach not only saves lives but also reduces the economic and social impact of natural disasters.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Natural disasters are becoming more common these days. I agree that governments should focus more on preparation because it can help save many lives and reduce damage.
First, preparation is important because it helps people know what to do when disasters happen. For example, when people learn about evacuation routes and emergency procedures, they can act quickly during emergencies. Also, importance of disaster preparedness in schools shows that teaching children about safety can protect whole families.
Second, preparing for disasters costs less money than fixing problems after they happen. If governments build strong buildings and good drainage systems, they won’t have to spend as much money on repairs later. For instance, many countries spend lots of money rebuilding after floods, which could be prevented with better preparation.
However, governments also need to be ready to help after disasters. Sometimes even good preparation cannot stop all damage, so emergency teams and supplies are still needed.
In conclusion, I think preparation is more important, but both preparation and response are necessary for dealing with natural disasters.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “proactive,” “catastrophes,” “imprudent”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear progression of ideas
- Strong examples and evidence
- Cohesive devices used effectively
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Some examples provided
- Limited use of cohesive devices
- Ideas presented logically but simply
Key Vocabulary
- Proactive (adj) /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – Acting before a situation becomes a source of confrontation
- Resilience (n) /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – Basic physical systems of a country
- Imprudent (adj) /ɪmˈpruːdnt/ – Not showing care for the consequences
- Catastrophe (n) /kəˈtæstrəfi/ – A terrible disaster
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Future exam questions might explore related themes such as international cooperation in disaster management or the role of technology in disaster prevention.