Plan this problem and solution essay about environment with the ideas and outline below, write it on a 40-minute timer, then compare it with a band-8 model answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Floods, wildfires and storms are becoming more frequent and destructive in many parts of the world.
What are the causes of this problem and what measures could be taken to solve it?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
GoPrep wrote this practice question in the style of the exam. It is not an official IELTS question.
Pick two or three points from one or both columns. You do not need all of them, and your own examples score better than memorised ones.
Spend the first few minutes planning, then write.
0 words of 250 minimum
Your answer stays on this page only. Copy it before you leave.
Write your own answer first, then compare: how it answers the exact question, what each paragraph does, and which phrases you could borrow.
Floods, wildfires and storms are becoming more frequent and destructive in many parts of the world. This essay will discuss the causes of this trend and suggest measures that could be taken to reduce the damage.
Climate change is the main underlying cause. As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere holds more moisture, which leads to heavier rainfall and flooding, while warmer seas produce more powerful storms. Hotter and drier conditions create ideal conditions for wildfires, and longer droughts leave forests and grassland dry. Human activities make the effects worse. Deforestation removes trees that absorb water and stabilise soil, building on floodplains and coastlines puts more people and property in danger, and concrete surfaces in cities prevent rainwater from soaking into the ground. Poor land management, such as failing to clear dead undergrowth, adds fuel to fires. As a result, events that once happened rarely now occur every few years.
Solutions need to focus on both prevention and preparation. In the long term, governments must cut greenhouse gas emissions by shifting to renewable energy and protecting forests and wetlands, which act as natural defences. Stronger building regulations and careful planning can prevent housing on flood-prone land, and flood barriers, drainage systems and firebreaks can protect existing communities. Early warning systems, evacuation plans and regular drills save lives, as shown by Bangladesh, which has dramatically reduced deaths from cyclones through shelters and community warnings. Education campaigns can teach residents how to respond, and insurance and emergency funds help families to recover.
In conclusion, extreme weather disasters are driven mainly by climate change and made worse by poor planning, but cutting emissions, building resilience and preparing communities can reduce their impact. Both long-term prevention and immediate readiness are necessary.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| extreme weather | severe weather events |
| flood defences | barriers against floods |
| early warning system | alerts before disasters |
| wildfire | uncontrolled fire |
| climate resilience | ability to cope with climate effects |
| emergency services | rescue organisations |
Answer random Part 1, 2 and 3 questions on an exam timer.
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Compare an IELTS band with TOEFL, Duolingo and PTE scores and CEFR levels.
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