IELTS Band 9 Essay About some people think that zoos are cruel
Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Some people think that zoos are cruel”. 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 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in 2025.
Sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Band 9 Response
Some people think that zoos are cruel and all the zoos should be closed. However, other people think that zoos are useful to protect the rare animals.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
The role of zoos in modern society has sparked intense debate. While some argue that zoos are inhumane and should be abolished, others believe they play a crucial role in wildlife conservation. Both perspectives have valid points, and a balanced approach is necessary to address the ethical and practical implications of zoos.
On the one hand, critics of zoos argue that they are exploitative and detrimental to animal welfare. Animals in zoos are often confined to small enclosures, which can lead to physical and psychological stress. For instance, large predators like lions and tigers, which naturally roam vast territories, may suffer from boredom and frustration in captivity. Furthermore, the commercialization of zoos, where animals are treated as attractions for profit, raises ethical concerns. Many believe that keeping animals in such conditions is a violation of their rights and that they should be allowed to live in their natural habitats.
On the other hand, proponents of zoos argue that they are essential for the protection of endangered species. Zoos provide a safe environment where animals can be protected from threats such as poaching, habitat destruction, and climate change. For example, breeding programs in zoos have successfully saved species like the giant panda and the California condor from extinction. Additionally, zoos play a pivotal role in educating the public about wildlife conservation, fostering a sense of responsibility toward protecting biodiversity.
In my opinion, while the ethical concerns surrounding zoos are legitimate, their potential benefits cannot be ignored. Instead of closing all zoos, efforts should be made to improve their conditions and ensure that animal welfare is prioritized. Modern zoos should focus on creating enriching environments that mimic natural habitats and provide animals with mental and physical stimulation. Moreover, zoos should shift their focus from entertainment to conservation and education, working closely with wildlife organizations to protect endangered species.
In conclusion, the debate over zoos is complex and requires a nuanced approach. While it is important to address the ethical issues associated with zoos, their role in conservation and education should not be overlooked. By reforming zoos to prioritize animal welfare and conservation, we can strike a balance between ethical considerations and the need to protect endangered species.
Academic Vocabulary in the sample for Some people think that zoos are cruel
- Inhumane (/ˌɪnhjuːˈmeɪn/)
- Example: Keeping animals in small cages is considered inhumane by many animal rights activists.
- Detrimental (/ˌdɛtrɪˈmɛntəl/)
- Example: Pollution has a detrimental effect on marine life.
- Essential (/ɪˈsɛnʃəl/)
- Example: Clean water is essential for human survival.
- Endangered (/ɪnˈdeɪndʒəd/)
- Example: The endangered species list includes animals like the black rhino and the orangutan.
- Enriching (/ɪnˈrɪtʃɪŋ/)
- Example: Traveling to different countries can be an enriching experience.
Advanced Grammar Structures and Their Contribution to a Higher Band Score:
- Conditional Sentences (Third Conditional):
- Example: “If zoos had not implemented breeding programs, many species might have gone extinct.”
- Contribution: Demonstrates the ability to discuss hypothetical past situations, which is a marker of advanced language proficiency.
- Passive Voice:
- Example: “Animals are often confined to small enclosures in zoos.”
- Contribution: Shifts focus to the action rather than the subject, adding variety and sophistication to the writing.
- Relative Clauses:
- Example: “Zoos, which play a crucial role in conservation, should prioritize animal welfare.”
- Contribution: Adds complexity to sentences and provides additional information without breaking the flow.
- Cleft Sentences:
- Example: “What zoos should focus on is creating enriching environments for animals.”
- Contribution: Emphasizes specific parts of the sentence, making the argument more persuasive and nuanced.
- Inversion for Emphasis:
- Example: “Not only do zoos protect endangered species, but they also educate the public about conservation.”
- Contribution: Adds a formal tone and highlights key points, which is essential for achieving a higher band score.
These advanced grammar structures enhance the clarity, coherence, and sophistication of the essay, contributing to a Band 9 score.
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