IELTS Writing Task 2 #240
IELTS Exam tip
In the IELTS Writing exam you can demonstrate that you have a broad vocabulary by avoiding unnecessary repetition. Many words commonly used in academic arguments have synonyms.
Example: The minister justified his position on arms control. He defended his position strongly when he gave evidence of the proliferation of nuclear weapons.
Learn to use synonyms when presenting your arguments.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people regard eating meat as completely wrong.
To what extent do you agree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model answer
Vegetarian diets have become very popular as a lifestyle choice in recent years. I personally believe there are several arguments in favour of vegetarianism: health issues, the ethical/religious argument and environmental factors.
One of the most controversial issues of recent years has been the increase in the number of health scares related to the food industry. One example in the UK was Mad Cow Disease and there are many others which we are less aware of these are obvious reasons to avoid meat. Furthermore, the health benefits of vegetarianism include lower risks of heart disease and cancers such as colon cancer. The risk of obesity and high blood pressure is also reduced.
In addition to the health issues, many people choose vegetarianism because they feel that we should treat animals in a humane way. A number of religions, including Buddhism and Judaism, have teachings on the humane treatment of animals or strict rules about diet. Some people say that animals have rights and we shouldn't make them suffer. Chickens, for instance, are often kept in crowded rooms of tiny cages (called “battery farms”), which leads to ill-health, short life-span and distress.
Another reason for the increase in vegetarianism is a greater awareness of our impact on the environment. A well-documented problem is the global destruction of forests to provide pasture for meat production. Also, it is argued that raising animals for food is an inefficient way to feed the world population. For example, research shows that one acre of pasture produces approximately 165 pounds of beef, compared to 20,000 pounds of potatoes.
In conclusion, modern ideas about heath, environmental concerns and the ethical treatment of animals have persuaded an increasing number of people in recent years to tum away from a meat-based diet. I myself am vegetarian and believe the benefits far outweigh the restrictions.
(305 words)