IELTS Band 9 Essay About Fossil fuels are the main sources

Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Fossil fuels are the main sources in many countries”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 100 band 9 IELTS sample released in 2024.

Explanation about Fossil fuels are the main sources in many countries

Fossil fuels have long been the primary energy source in many countries, providing power for industries, transportation, and households. However, there is a growing trend in some nations to encourage the use of alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. This shift is seen as a necessary step to combat climate change, reduce dependence on finite resources, and promote sustainable development. In this essay, I will examine both the positive and negative aspects of encouraging alternative energy use and provide my opinion on whether this is a favorable development.

Sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Answer

Fossil fuels are the main sources in many countries, but in some countries, the use of alternative sources of energy are encouraged.

To what extent do you think it is a positive or negative development?

The use of fossil fuels as the primary source of energy has been prevalent in many countries for decades, contributing to economic growth and industrialization. However, a shift towards alternative energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power, is being encouraged in several nations. This development has sparked debate over its advantages and disadvantages. In my opinion, the move towards renewable energy is a positive development that can benefit both the environment and the economy.

One of the primary advantages of alternative energy sources is their environmental sustainability. Unlike fossil fuels, which release harmful greenhouse gases and contribute to global warming, renewable energy sources produce little to no pollution. For instance, solar and wind power generate electricity without emitting carbon dioxide, making them a cleaner alternative. As concerns over climate change continue to grow, transitioning to green energy is essential in reducing the adverse impacts of fossil fuel consumption. Moreover, this shift can contribute to a reduction in air and water pollution, leading to healthier living conditions.

In addition to environmental benefits, the promotion of alternative energy can help diversify a country’s energy supply, reducing reliance on finite fossil fuel reserves. Fossil fuels are non-renewable, meaning they will eventually be depleted. By investing in renewable energy, countries can ensure a more secure energy future, less vulnerable to price fluctuations and supply disruptions. For example, nations with abundant renewable resources, such as wind or solar energy, can generate their own electricity, reducing their dependence on foreign oil and gas imports.

However, some argue that the transition to alternative energy can be costly and challenging. Renewable energy technologies are often more expensive to install and maintain than traditional fossil fuel-based systems. In addition, infrastructure upgrades may be necessary to accommodate these new energy sources. These costs could be a burden for some developing countries that are already struggling with poverty and lack of resources.

Despite these challenges, the long-term benefits of investing in alternative energy outweigh the initial costs. The potential for job creation in the renewable energy sector, the reduction in healthcare costs due to cleaner air, and the preservation of natural resources make this transition a wise investment for the future.

In conclusion, while the shift towards alternative energy sources presents some challenges, it is undeniably a positive development. The environmental and economic benefits of renewable energy make it a crucial step in ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

Academic Vocabulary in the sample for Fossil fuels are the main sources in many countries

1. Sustainability (səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti)
   • Sentence: The sustainability of renewable energy sources is a key factor in addressing global environmental concerns.
2. Green (ɡriːn)
   • Sentence: The green energy sector has witnessed significant growth in recent years due to increasing demand for eco-friendly alternatives.
3. Diversify (daɪˈvɜːsɪfaɪ)
   • Sentence: Governments should diversify their energy sources to ensure long-term stability and security.
4. Secure (sɪˈkjʊər)
   • Sentence: By investing in renewable energy, nations can create a more secure energy infrastructure that is less reliant on external sources.
5. Depleted (dɪˈpliːtɪd)
   • Sentence: Fossil fuels are depleted resources, meaning they will eventually run out if not replaced by alternative energy sources.

Advanced Grammar Structures

1. Passive Voice (“is being encouraged”)
   • The passive voice is used here to emphasize the action of encouraging renewable energy rather than who is doing the encouraging, which maintains an objective tone.
2. Complex Sentence (“Unlike fossil fuels, which release harmful greenhouse gases and contribute to global warming”)
   • The use of a relative clause adds detail and complexity to the sentence, enhancing the overall sentence structure and demonstrating grammatical range.
3. Conditionals (“if the transition to alternative energy is successful, it can lead to long-term environmental benefits”)
   • This conditional sentence shows a cause-and-effect relationship, adding depth and demonstrating the ability to link ideas effectively.
4. Noun Phrases (“the shift towards renewable energy is essential in reducing the adverse impacts of fossil fuel consumption”)
   • Noun phrases such as “the shift towards renewable energy” help convey complex ideas concisely and formally, contributing to the academic tone of the essay.
5. Modal Verb of Necessity (“is essential in reducing”)
   • The modal verb “is essential” expresses the necessity of transitioning to renewable energy, which strengthens the argument by indicating urgency.

Writing Format and Band 9 Criteria

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses the question by discussing both the positive and negative aspects of the development. It provides a clear opinion and well-supported arguments.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is logically organized with clear paragraphs. Appropriate transitional phrases such as “In addition” and “However” create a smooth flow of ideas.
3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a range of academic vocabulary, including terms like “sustainability,” “diversify,” and “secure,” which demonstrates lexical proficiency.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures, including passive voice, conditionals, and noun phrases, which adds complexity and variety to the writing.
5. Formal Tone: The tone is formal and academic, adhering to IELTS Writing Task 2 requirements. The use of sophisticated vocabulary and grammatical structures enhances the essay’s overall quality.

By adhering to these criteria, the essay achieves a Band 9 score, with well-developed arguments, cohesive paragraphs, and varied vocabulary and grammar.

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