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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - The role of agriculture in contributing to environmental degradation

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Writing Task 2 Topic:The role of agriculture in contributing to environmental degradation

Model Answer:

Agriculture has played a significant role in shaping the world we live in today, providing food and resources for an ever-growing population. However, it is also undeniable that agricultural practices have contributed significantly to environmental degradation. In this essay, I will discuss some of the ways in which agriculture has negatively impacted the environment, including deforestation, soil erosion, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity.

One of the most apparent ways in which agriculture contributes to environmental degradation is through deforestation. Deforestation occurs when large areas of forest are cleared to make way for agricultural activities such as crop production and livestock grazing. This not only leads to a loss of habitat for numerous species, but also results in a reduction of the Earth's carbon sink, exacerbating climate change.

Another significant issue is soil erosion caused by intensive farming practices. The removal of vegetation and topsoil from agricultural lands, along with the overuse of chemicals, such as pesticides and fertilizers, disrupt the natural balance of ecosystems and lead to a loss of soil fertility. This, in turn, affects crop production and contributes to the decline in agricultural land quality.

Water pollution is another consequence of agricultural activities. The excessive use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and antibiotics in farming leads to the contamination of water bodies, affecting aquatic life and ecosystems. Moreover, the construction of large-scale irrigation systems can result in the depletion of groundwater resources and contribute to the formation of dead zones in rivers and lakes due to high nutrient loads.

Lastly, agriculture has led to a loss of biodiversity, as monoculture farming practices require large areas of land and the extensive use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). These practices reduce genetic diversity, which is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems and adapting to environmental changes.

In conclusion, while agriculture has been essential in providing food security and resources for humanity, it cannot be denied that it has also played a significant role in contributing to environmental degradation. Addressing these issues requires a shift towards more sustainable agricultural practices, such as organic farming, crop rotation, and the implementation of conservation strategies.

IELTS Scoring Standards:

Overall Band Score: 8.0
Task Response: 9.0 (The response addresses all aspects of the topic and demonstrates an extensive understanding of the issues.)
Coherence and Cohesion: 9.0 (The essay is well-structured, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs that logically flow, and a conclusion.)
Lexical Resource: 8.5 (The vocabulary used is varied and appropriate, with some less common words and phrases.)
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8.0 (The grammar is mostly accurate, with only minor errors affecting overall clarity.)

Overall, the model answer provided aligns with the IELTS Writing Task 2 format and scoring standards, effectively addressing the given topic while maintaining a cohesive structure and appropriate lexical range.

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