You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
People have little understanding of the importance of the natural world. What are the reasons for this, and how can people learn more about the natural world?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Sample Answer
It is true that most people do not realize how important the natural world is. While there are some reasons to explain this lack of knowledge, there are ways in which people can improve their understanding.
I believe that the major reason why many people do not appreciate the value of the natural world is the disappearance of traditional ways of life. In terms of work, hunting, fishing or agriculture are now the occupation of a small minority of the workforce in most countries. Advances in technology mean that most people now spend a large part of their day in a closed working environment, such as an office, shop or factory, without any contact with nature. From a cultural perspective, traditional festivals related to the natural seasons in agricultural communities have fallen by the wayside. Celebrations of nature, for example at times of spring or harvest, which once provided a link to our roots, continue only in the hands of an ageing population, while younger generations are addicted to the electronic media.
However, people can learn about the natural world in three important ways. Firstly, there are many opportunities to become involved in local volunteer work, carrying out environmentally friendly tasks like planting trees. Secondly, schools should include nature studies and environmental science in the curriculum. Finally, more nature documentaries on TV and the internet would stimulate a revival of interest in the world around us. They are an excellent means of informing the public about life on the planet, and the need to combat the environmental degradation which threatens it.
In conclusion, although there are important reasons why there is little public understanding of the natural world, there are ways in which this lack of knowledge can be overcome.
289 words
Vocab Highlights
the disappearance of traditional ways of life: the fact that traditional ways no longer exist
advances in technology: the improvement or development in technology
working environment: the conditions that you work in
to fall by the wayside: if something falls by the wayside, it is no longer used
harvest: the time of year when crops are collected on a farm
to provide a link to our roots: to connect with previous generations
in the hands of an ageing population: dependent on the elderly
to be addicted to: to be unable to stop taking harmful drugs, tobacco or alcohol.
the electronic media: broadcast media which use electronic technology, such as the internet, television, radio, DVDs etc
environmentally friendly: behavior or products that do not harm the environment
to stimulate: to encourage something to develop
a revival of interest in: the process of something becoming more popular again
environmental degradation: the process or fact of the environment becoming worse