Causes of fires: natural and human agency
Wildfires start through natural triggers like lightning, or through human actions like arson and accidental ignition. Both types of cause can turn vegetation into a large, uncontrolled fire.
Real World
Australia's 2019–20 'Black Summer' fires were largely ignited by dry lightning strikes during an exceptional drought, but investigations also found hundreds of fires were accidentally or deliberately started by humans, including one linked to a military pyrotechnic device.
Exam Focus
Avoid stating fires are 'caused by climate change' — instead say climate creates conditions (drought, heat) that make human or natural ignition more likely.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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