Task 2 · · 17 samples

Some people think that zoos are cruel and should be closed down. Others, however, believe that zoos can be useful in protecting wild animals. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Practise this task →

Plan your answer

Try your own response before reading the samples.

Ideas to explore

  • Zoos may support conservation through breeding programmes and care for animals that cannot safely return to the wild.
  • Captivity can limit animals’ movement and natural behaviour, while noise and visitor contact may cause stress.
  • A balanced position can distinguish entertainment-focused zoos from rescue centres or carefully managed conservation programmes.

Suggested structure

  1. Introduce the disagreement and state your own position clearly.
  2. Explain the strongest argument for zoos, using conservation or education as a reason.
  3. Explain the opposing welfare argument and its consequences for animals.
  4. Give your judgement, clarify any exception you accept, and conclude with a practical alternative.
Useful vocabulary & examples
breeding programme
An organised effort to help animals reproduce, often to support a threatened population.

A carefully managed breeding programme may help maintain the population of an endangered species.

animal welfare
The health, comfort and quality of life of animals.

Animal welfare should be central to any decision about keeping wild animals in captivity.

natural habitat
The place and environment where an animal normally lives in the wild.

Protecting a natural habitat can allow wild animals to live and reproduce with greater freedom.

return to the wild
To release an animal back into its natural environment when it can survive there.

Some rescued animals may be able to return to the wild after treatment.

Sample answers

AI-completed learning example

298 words · Illustrative target band

Some people believe that zoos play paramount importance in protecting wild animals, whilst others feel that keeping animals locked up in such places is ruthless and unnecessary. This essay will delve into discussing the two perspectives as well as stating my support for the latter one. On the one hand, there are some reasons why zoos can be valuable for wildlife conservation. They can provide food, shelter and veteri…

Read full answer & analysis →

AI-completed learning example

355 words · Illustrative target band

Some people argue that zoos are requisite to preserve wildlife, while others say that they are inhumane and should not be operated. While various wildlife programmes, functioning across the world help to uplift the population of endagered species, i believe the unnatural environment and poor conditions in which animals are held captive should be unacceptable. A conservation label alone does not resolve those concerns…

Read full answer & analysis →

AI-completed learning example

354 words · Illustrative target band

While certain individuals claim that zoos should be banned due to their harmful effects on animals, others believe that they are a perfect way to defend animals in danger. In my opinion, although zoos have some pros such as protection of animals, they are still too dangerous for many creatures. On the one hand, this concern begins with restricted movement and unsuitable conditions. The case for closure begins with t…

Read full answer & analysis →