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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

With a growing world population, one of the most pressing issues is feeding a huge population. Some people think that GM (Genetically Modified) foods offer a viable solution to this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

With a growing world population, one of the most pressing issues is feeding a huge population. Some people think that GM (Genetically Modified) foods offer a viable solution to this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In recent times, the issue of feeding a rapidly growing global population has become increasingly important. Some individuals believe that genetically modified (GM) foods provide a feasible solution to this challenge. In my opinion, while GM foods may offer certain benefits in addressing food scarcity, they also pose potential risks and ethical concerns.

Supporters of GM foods argue that these crops are engineered to be more resistant to pests, diseases, and adverse environmental conditions. This can lead to increased crop yields, which in turn can help in feeding a larger population. For example, the development of insect-resistant Bt cotton has significantly improved cotton yield in many countries, thereby contributing to food security.

However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks of GM foods. There are concerns about the long-term health effects of consuming genetically modified organisms (GMOs), as well as the impact on biodiversity. For instance, the use of herbicide-resistant GM crops may lead to the proliferation of herbicide-resistant weeds, posing a threat to natural ecosystems.

Moreover, there are ethical implications associated with GM foods, particularly in terms of ownership and control of genetic resources. Large biotechnology corporations often hold patents on GM seeds, which can lead to dependency among farmers and restrict access to traditional seed varieties. This can have negative implications for small-scale farmers and indigenous communities.

In conclusion, while GM foods may offer some potential solutions to the challenge of feeding a growing population, it is essential to carefully weigh the benefits against the potential risks and ethical considerations. Sustainable and equitable approaches to food production and distribution should be prioritized in addressing this pressing global issue.

Model Essay #2:

With a growing world population, one of the most pressing issues is feeding a huge population. Some people think that GM (Genetically Modified) foods offer a viable solution to this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In light of the escalating global population, the question of how to sustainably feed a large number of people has become a critical concern. While some individuals advocate for the use of genetically modified (GM) foods as a viable solution to this dilemma, I firmly disagree with this viewpoint due to various reasons.

Proponents of GM foods argue that these crops can help address food shortages by enhancing crop yields and improving resistance to pests and diseases. They believe that by modifying the genetic makeup of crops, it is possible to produce larger quantities of food to meet the demands of a growing population. For instance, the development of drought-resistant GM maize has been touted as a potential solution to food insecurity in regions prone to water scarcity.

However, my disagreement stems from the potential risks associated with GM foods. There is ongoing debate about the safety of consuming genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and the long-term health effects on humans. Additionally, the environmental impact of GM crops, including concerns about cross-pollination with non-GM crops and the loss of biodiversity, raises significant apprehensions.

Furthermore, the use of GM foods raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding the control and ownership of genetic resources. Large agrochemical companies often dominate the production and distribution of GM seeds, which can lead to dependency among farmers and hinder the preservation of traditional seed varieties. This can result in a loss of agricultural diversity and autonomy for farming communities.

In conclusion, while GM foods may appear to offer a solution to the challenge of feeding a burgeoning global population, the potential risks and ethical implications cannot be overlooked. It is imperative to explore alternative approaches that prioritize sustainability, biodiversity, and the equitable distribution of resources to address the pressing issue of food security.

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