IELTS HUBIELTS Discussion Essay on Nature & Society
Full IELTS Writing Task 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Many people believe that zoos are cruel. Others think they are helpful in protecting rare animals.
Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
Write at least 250 words.
Introduction
Introduce the debate about zoos (cruel vs. helpful for conservation). State the author's opinion supporting the helpful view.
Body Paragraph 1 View 1
Discuss arguments against zoos: ethical reasons, loss of natural instincts/stress (elephants), treating animals as commodities (polar bears example).
Body Paragraph 2 View 2
Discuss arguments for responsible zoos: crucial for conservation, safe haven for endangered species (black rhino breeding example), educational centers (promoting conservation, tiger encounter example).
Conclusion
Summarize arguments against zoos (distress, commodities) but reiterate that the benefits (conservation, education) are more significant.
Band 9 Sample Answer:
In the field of wildlife conservation, there are two main viewpoints: some people see zoos as cruel, while others believe they are crucial for saving endangered animals. I support the second opinion, arguing that zoos have a positive impact on animal protection.
Those against zoos usually base their arguments on ethical reasons. They claim that keeping animals in man-made habitats takes away their natural instincts and behaviors, causing mental stress. For example, elephants in the wild travel long distances daily, a freedom that is greatly limited in zoos. Critics also say that zoos turn animals into commodities, making them just displays for public amusement. They believe that having a polar bear do tricks, for instance, undermines the grandeur and dignity of these amazing animals.
However, despite these legitimate worries, I believe that responsibly run zoos play a crucial role in animal conservation. Zoos act as a safe haven for species close to extinction, protecting them from hunting and habitat loss. The successful breeding of the extremely endangered black rhinoceros in zoos, for instance, has been key in stopping its total extinction. Moreover, zoos serve as educational centers, promoting a love for wildlife and teaching visitors about the importance of conservation efforts. An encounter with a magnificent tiger, for example, can motivate a child to care for the environment for the rest of their life.
In conclusion, while the arguments against zoos, such as causing potential distress to animals and turning them into commodities, are valid, I think the advantages of zoos in saving endangered species and promoting environmental education outweigh these issues.
Band 7 Sample Answer:
In the realm of animal conservation, there exists a dichotomy of opinions: some perceive zoos as inhumane, while others argue they are instrumental in preserving endangered species. I align myself with the latter viewpoint, advocating for the constructive role zoos play in animal protection.
Those who denounce zoos often do so on ethical grounds. They contend that confining animals to artificial habitats deprives them of their natural instincts and behaviors, leading to psychological distress. For instance, elephants in the wild cover vast distances daily, a freedom of movement that is severely curtailed in zoos. Additionally, critics argue that zoos commodify animals, reducing them to mere exhibits for public entertainment. The spectacle of a polar bear performing tricks, they argue, trivializes the majesty and dignity of these magnificent creatures.
However, despite these valid concerns, I maintain that zoos, when managed responsibly, serve a vital function in animal conservation. Zoos provide a sanctuary for species on the brink of extinction, offering them protection from poaching and habitat destruction. The successful breeding of the critically endangered black rhinoceros in zoos, for example, has been instrumental in preventing its complete disappearance. Furthermore, zoos serve as educational platforms, fostering an appreciation for wildlife and instilling in visitors the urgency of conservation efforts. A child's encounter with a majestic tiger, for instance, can inspire a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship.
In conclusion, while the arguments against zoos, such as the potential for animal distress and commodification, are not without merit, I believe the benefits of zoos in preserving endangered species and promoting environmental education outweigh these concerns.