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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Food can be produced much more cheaply today because of improved fertilizers and better machinery. However, some of the methods used to do this may be dangerous to human health and may have negative effects on local communities. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Food can be produced much more cheaply today because of improved fertilizers and better machinery. However, some of the methods used to do this may be dangerous to human health and may have negative effects on local communities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In today's world, food production has become more efficient due to advancements in fertilizers and machinery. While these developments have reduced costs, some argue that they may pose health risks and harm local communities. In my opinion, I partly agree with this view.

Improved fertilizers and machinery have undoubtedly increased food production, helping to meet the growing demand for food. This has resulted in lower prices for consumers, making food more affordable. For example, the use of modern farming equipment has significantly reduced the manual labor required for planting and harvesting crops, leading to cost savings that are passed on to consumers.

However, it is important to acknowledge the potential dangers associated with these methods. Some fertilizers contain harmful chemicals that can seep into the soil and water, posing health risks to both consumers and farmers. Additionally, the use of heavy machinery can lead to soil erosion and environmental degradation, affecting the livelihoods of local communities. For instance, excessive use of chemical fertilizers has been linked to health issues in farming communities, and the use of heavy machinery has led to land degradation in certain areas.

In conclusion, while improved fertilizers and machinery have undoubtedly made food production more cost-effective, it is crucial to consider the potential negative impacts on human health and local communities. Sustainable and environmentally friendly practices should be prioritized to ensure that food production remains safe and beneficial for all. Efforts to regulate the use of fertilizers and machinery are essential in safeguarding the well-being of both consumers and local communities.

Model Essay #2:

Food can be produced much more cheaply today because of improved fertilizers and better machinery. However, some of the methods used to do this may be dangerous to human health and may have negative effects on local communities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

While it is true that modern fertilizers and machinery have contributed to more affordable food production, I strongly disagree with the notion that these methods are inherently dangerous to human health and local communities.

The use of improved fertilizers and machinery has revolutionized agriculture, leading to increased crop yields and lower production costs. This has enabled farmers to meet the growing demand for food and has ultimately benefited consumers by making food more accessible and affordable. For example, advancements in fertilizer technology have allowed for more precise and targeted application, reducing the risk of overuse and environmental contamination.

Furthermore, modern machinery has improved efficiency and productivity in farming, reducing the need for manual labor and increasing overall output. This has had positive effects on local communities by creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth in rural areas. For instance, the adoption of advanced agricultural machinery has led to increased farm productivity, benefiting local economies and livelihoods.

In conclusion, while some may argue that the methods used in modern food production pose risks to human health and local communities, I believe that the benefits far outweigh the potential drawbacks. Improved fertilizers and machinery have significantly enhanced food production, making it more efficient and cost-effective. With responsible and regulated use, these methods can continue to support sustainable agriculture and ensure food security for future generations.

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