Space research and its societal benefits have been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 2-3 times annually in recent years. Based on analysis of past exams, questions about space exploration typically focus on government funding allocation, technological advancement, and social impact. This topic’s frequency suggests it will remain relevant for future tests.
For today’s analysis, we’ll examine this actual IELTS question that appeared in 2022:
Some people think that space research is a waste of money while others believe it benefits all of humanity. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Space research benefits discussion showing diverse perspectives
Understanding the Question
- Task: Discuss both views + give opinion
- Key aspects to cover:
- Arguments against space research (waste of money)
- Benefits for humanity
- Personal stance with justification
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
While some consider space exploration an unnecessary expense, I firmly believe its benefits to humanity far outweigh the costs. This essay will examine both perspectives before explaining why space research is a crucial investment for our future.
Those who oppose space research often argue that the enormous funds could better serve immediate earthly needs. They point to pressing issues like poverty, healthcare, and education that require substantial funding. For instance, the billions spent on Mars missions could potentially feed millions of undernourished children or build thousands of schools in developing nations.
However, impact of space exploration on scientific innovation has proven invaluable for human progress. Space research has sparked numerous technological breakthroughs that benefit everyday life, from satellite communications enabling global connectivity to medical innovations like MRI machines and water purification systems. Moreover, space exploration has provided crucial data about climate change and natural disasters, helping us better protect our planet.
In my opinion, space research represents an essential investment in humanity’s future. While addressing immediate social needs is important, how space research benefits technological advancements demonstrates its long-term value. The knowledge and technologies developed through space programs often find applications in solving terrestrial problems, creating a positive feedback loop of innovation and progress.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Some people think spending money on space research is wasteful, but others say it helps everyone. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who don’t support space research say it costs too much money. They think governments should spend money on more important things like hospitals and schools. For example, many countries have poor people who need food and medicine, so spending billions on space rockets seems wrong to them.
On the other hand, space research has many good points. It helps us make new technology that everyone can use. For instance, we now have better phones and computers because of space research. Also, satellites help us with weather forecasting and GPS navigation.
I think space research is good for society because it creates new jobs and helps solve problems on Earth. Although it is expensive, the benefits are worth the cost. We should continue investing in space research while also taking care of people’s basic needs.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “enormous funds,” “pressing issues,” “technological breakthroughs”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear progression of ideas
- Strong cohesion and coherence
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Limited use of complex language
- Some repetition
- Basic development of ideas
Key Vocabulary
- Space exploration (n) /speɪs ˌekspləˈreɪʃn/ – the investigation of space using spacecraft
- Technological breakthrough (n) /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈbreɪkθruː/ – important development or discovery
- Terrestrial (adj) /təˈrestriəl/ – relating to Earth
- Innovation (n) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – new method, idea, or product
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical systems of a country
Looking ahead, expect future IELTS questions to focus on Space tourism: ethical and sustainable? and related topics. Practice writing essays about space exploration’s economic impact, environmental considerations, and ethical implications to prepare effectively.
Share your practice essays in the comments below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates.
