Why Plastic is the Scourge of Sea Life: An IELTS Topic Analysis

As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often find students struggling to articulate complex environmental issues, particularly in the Speaking test. “Why plastic is the scourge of sea life” is a …

plastic pollution in the ocean

As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often find students struggling to articulate complex environmental issues, particularly in the Speaking test. “Why plastic is the scourge of sea life” is a recurring theme, highlighting a global crisis demanding our attention. This essay will equip you with the vocabulary and arguments to confidently tackle this topic in your IELTS exam.

Understanding the Issue: Plastic and its Devastating Impact on Marine Life

Before formulating your response, it’s crucial to understand why plastic is so detrimental to marine ecosystems. Here are some key points:

1. The Persistence of Plastic:

Unlike organic materials, plastic doesn’t biodegrade; it breaks down into smaller and smaller pieces called microplastics. This persistence means plastic accumulates in the environment, posing a long-term threat to marine life.

2. Entanglement and Ingestion:

Marine animals often mistake plastic debris for food. Ingestion can lead to starvation, suffocation, or internal injuries. Larger pieces of plastic entangle animals, restricting their movement, causing injury, or drowning.

plastic pollution in the oceanplastic pollution in the ocean

3. Chemical Pollution:

Plastic production involves harmful chemicals, which can leach into the water and accumulate in the food chain, impacting the health of marine organisms and potentially even humans.

Articulating your answer: IELTS Speaking Tips

1. Vocabulary is Key:

Demonstrate your language proficiency by using topic-specific vocabulary:

  • Instead of “bad”: detrimental, harmful, hazardous, devastating, catastrophic
  • Instead of “problem”: crisis, dilemma, predicament, challenge
  • Use phrases like: “disrupts the food chain,” “poses a significant threat,” “leads to marine debris,” “has long-term consequences,” “bioaccumulation of toxins.”

2. Structure your Response:

Follow a clear and logical structure to present your arguments effectively. For instance:

  • Introduction: Briefly state your stance on the issue. (e.g., “Plastic pollution is a serious threat to our oceans…”)
  • Body Paragraphs: Elaborate on two or three key reasons why plastic is harmful. Provide specific examples and use linking words for coherence.
  • Conclusion: Summarize your points and offer a possible solution or call to action.

3. Example Answer (Part 3 – Discussion):

Examiner: “Why do you think plastic is such a big problem for sea life?”

Candidate: “Well, plastic pollution is incredibly harmful to marine ecosystems for several reasons. Firstly, plastic doesn’t biodegrade like organic materials. It persists in the environment for hundreds of years, constantly breaking down into smaller and smaller microplastics. These microplastics are then ingested by marine life, accumulating up the food chain and ultimately impacting the health of larger animals and even humans. Secondly, plastic debris often resembles jellyfish or other prey, leading to ingestion by marine animals. This can cause starvation, as their stomachs fill up with indigestible plastic, preventing them from consuming actual food. It’s a truly devastating cycle.”

IELTS Practice Makes Perfect

Familiarize yourself with common IELTS Speaking topics and practice formulating your responses using relevant vocabulary and a structured approach. Remember, fluency and coherence are key, but don’t be afraid to showcase your range of vocabulary to achieve a higher band score. By understanding the gravity of plastic pollution and developing your language skills, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle this important topic in your IELTS exam.

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