The topic “the role of science in addressing global challenges” is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current global issues, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to contemporary global problems makes it a prime candidate for examination. Let’s explore a specific question related to this theme and analyze sample essays for different band scores.
Science addressing global challenges
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should spend more money on scientific research to address global challenges like climate change and food security. Others believe that this money should be spent on more immediate needs. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that governments should invest more in scientific research for global challenges.
- Present the opposing view that immediate needs should take priority.
- Provide their own opinion on the matter.
The key challenge is to balance these perspectives while clearly stating your position.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9
In an era of unprecedented global challenges, the debate over government spending priorities has intensified. While some advocate for increased investment in scientific research to tackle issues like climate change and food security, others argue that immediate societal needs should take precedence. In my opinion, a balanced approach that addresses both long-term scientific solutions and pressing current issues is crucial for sustainable development.
Those in favor of prioritizing scientific research argue that only through rigorous study and innovation can we hope to solve complex global problems. Climate change, for instance, requires sophisticated modeling and technological breakthroughs to mitigate its effects and develop sustainable energy alternatives. Similarly, food security challenges demand advanced agricultural techniques and genetic research to increase crop yields and resilience. Proponents contend that without substantial government funding, these critical areas of research may not progress rapidly enough to avert potential crises.
Conversely, others maintain that governments have a responsibility to address immediate societal needs before allocating funds to long-term scientific endeavors. This perspective emphasizes the urgency of issues such as poverty, healthcare accessibility, and education. Advocates argue that alleviating current suffering and inequalities should take precedence over future-oriented research, as the benefits of scientific breakthroughs may not materialize in time to help those in dire need today.
While both arguments have merit, I believe that a nuanced approach is necessary. Governments should strive to balance short-term needs with long-term scientific investment, recognizing that these areas are often interconnected. For example, research into sustainable agriculture can have immediate benefits for food security while also contributing to long-term climate change mitigation. By allocating resources strategically, governments can address pressing issues while simultaneously fostering scientific advancements that will be crucial for future generations.
In conclusion, the role of science in addressing global challenges is undeniably significant, but it should not come at the expense of immediate societal needs. A holistic approach that integrates scientific research with practical, short-term solutions offers the best path forward. By striking this balance, governments can ensure both the well-being of current populations and the development of innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
(Word count: 339)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a high band score (8-9):
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting a personal opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with precision. Examples include “unprecedented,” “mitigate,” and “alleviating.”
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Complex structures are used accurately, such as “While both arguments have merit, I believe that a nuanced approach is necessary.”
The essay presents a balanced view and offers a nuanced opinion, which is characteristic of high-scoring responses.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7
Many people have different opinions about how governments should spend money. Some think it’s important to use more money for scientific research to solve big problems like climate change and not having enough food. Others believe this money should be used for things we need right now. I think both ideas are important, but scientific research is more important for our future.
People who want more money for science say that we need to study hard to fix big problems. For example, climate change is a big issue, and we need smart scientists to find ways to stop it. Also, if we want to grow more food for everyone, we need to study new ways to farm. These people think that if the government doesn’t give money for this research, we won’t find solutions fast enough.
On the other hand, some people think we should use money for things we need now. They say that many people are poor or sick, and we should help them first. They think it’s more important to make sure everyone has food and medicine today than to spend money on research that might not help for a long time.
I believe that scientific research is very important because it can help us solve problems now and in the future. If we find new ways to grow food, it can help hungry people now and also help us in the future when there are more people on Earth. Also, if we find ways to stop climate change, it will help everyone for a long time.
In conclusion, while both immediate needs and scientific research are important, I think governments should spend more on research. This is because scientific discoveries can help us solve both current and future problems, making the world better for everyone.
(Word count: 296)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 score:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the development of ideas is less comprehensive than in the Band 8-9 essay.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but less precise and varied compared to the higher band essay. For example, “big problems” is used instead of more specific terms.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, but with less variety and sophistication than the Band 8-9 essay.
The essay presents a clear opinion and covers the main points, but lacks the depth and nuance of a higher band response.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Unprecedented (adjective) /ʌnˈpres.ɪ.den.tɪd/ – Never having happened or existed in the past
- Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪt.ɪ.ɡeɪt/ – To make something less harmful, serious, or bad
- Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪl.jəns/ – The ability to recover quickly from difficulties
- Alleviate (verb) /əˈliː.vi.eɪt/ – To make suffering, deficiency, or a problem less severe
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuː.ɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/ – Able to continue over a period of time
- Holistic (adjective) /həʊˈlɪs.tɪk/ – Dealing with or treating the whole of something or someone and not just a part
- Rigorous (adjective) /ˈrɪɡ.ər.əs/ – Extremely thorough and careful
- Dire (adjective) /daɪər/ – Very serious or extreme
- Foster (verb) /ˈfɒs.tər/ – To encourage the development or growth of ideas or feelings
Conclusion
The role of science in addressing global challenges is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As demonstrated in the sample essays, this subject allows for diverse perspectives and requires a balanced approach. When tackling such questions, remember to:
- Clearly address all parts of the question
- Present a well-structured argument with logical progression
- Use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures
- Provide specific examples to support your points
For further practice, consider writing an essay on related topics such as:
- The importance of international cooperation in scientific research
- The ethical considerations of scientific advancements in solving global issues
- The role of private sector funding in scientific research for global challenges
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.