IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Government Funding for Alternative Energy Sources (Band 6-9)

The topic of government funding for alternative energy sources is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this subject has appeared frequently and is likely to continue being a popular choice for future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams:

Some people think that governments should spend money on developing or buying computer technology in order to provide internet access for their citizens. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analyzing the Question

This question asks for your opinion on whether governments should invest in computer technology to provide internet access for citizens. Key points to consider:

1. The main topic is government spending on technology for internet access.
2. You need to express your level of agreement or disagreement.
3. You should discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of such government investment.
4. Consider the implications for different segments of society.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s digital age, access to the internet has become increasingly vital for education, employment, and social connectivity. I strongly agree that governments should allocate funds to develop and acquire computer technology to ensure widespread internet access for their citizens. This investment can yield significant social and economic benefits, outweighing the initial costs.

Firstly, government-funded internet access can bridge the digital divide and promote equal opportunities. In many countries, there is a stark contrast between urban and rural areas in terms of internet connectivity. By investing in infrastructure and technology, governments can ensure that citizens in remote or underprivileged areas have the same access to information and online resources as their urban counterparts. This equality of access is crucial for educational purposes, allowing students from all backgrounds to benefit from online learning materials and courses.

Moreover, widespread internet access can boost economic growth and innovation. When more citizens have access to the internet, it creates a larger market for e-commerce and digital services. This, in turn, can stimulate entrepreneurship and job creation in the technology sector. Additionally, improved connectivity can enhance productivity across various industries by enabling remote work and facilitating the exchange of ideas and information on a global scale.

However, it is important to acknowledge that such investments come with challenges. Governments must carefully consider the most cost-effective methods of providing internet access, whether through developing new technologies or partnering with existing service providers. There is also a need to address concerns about cybersecurity and online privacy as more citizens gain access to the internet.

In conclusion, the benefits of government investment in internet access far outweigh the potential drawbacks. By providing citizens with the tools to participate in the digital world, governments can foster social equality, economic growth, and innovation. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for governments to take a proactive role in ensuring that all citizens can reap the benefits of the digital revolution.

(Word count: 310)

Government funding for internet access bridging the digital divide

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

In the modern world, the internet has become very important for many aspects of life. I agree that governments should spend money on computer technology to give internet access to their citizens, but I think there are some limits to this.

One good reason for governments to provide internet access is education. Many students need the internet to do research, take online courses, and communicate with teachers and classmates. If the government helps everyone get internet access, it can make education fairer for all students, no matter where they live or how much money their families have.

Another benefit is that internet access can help the economy. When more people have internet, they can start online businesses or work remotely. This can create jobs and help the country’s economy grow. Also, farmers and small business owners in rural areas can use the internet to find better prices for their products and reach more customers.

However, there are some problems with this idea. It can be very expensive for governments to provide internet access everywhere, especially in large countries with many rural areas. This money might be needed for other important things like healthcare or roads. Also, some people might not want to use the internet or might not know how to use it, so the investment could be wasted on them.

In conclusion, I believe that governments should invest in internet access for their citizens, but they need to do it carefully. They should focus on areas where it will have the biggest impact, like schools and places with poor connections. At the same time, they should also teach people how to use the internet safely and effectively.

(Word count: 282)

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

I think governments should spend money on computer technology for internet access. It’s important because many people need the internet today.

One reason is for education. Students can learn many things on the internet. If the government gives internet to everyone, all students can have the same chance to learn. This is good for poor students who can’t buy internet themselves.

Also, internet is good for jobs. People can find work online or start their own business. If more people have internet, it can help the country make more money. Farmers can sell their food to more people with the internet too.

But there are some problems. It costs a lot of money to give internet to everyone. The government might not have enough money for other things like hospitals. Some old people might not want to use the internet, so it might be a waste for them.

In conclusion, I think the government should give internet to people, but they should be careful. They should give it to schools first and teach people how to use it well. This way, it can help many people without wasting too much money.

(Word count: 178)

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

• Task Achievement: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout.
• Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary used with flexibility and precision.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Wide range of structures used accurately and appropriately.

Band 6-7 Essay:

• Task Achievement: Addresses all parts of the task, though some aspects are more fully covered than others.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally well organized, with some use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource: Adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some attempts at less common words.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Mix of simple and complex sentence forms, with some errors that do not impede communication.

Band 5-6 Essay:

• Task Achievement: Addresses the task only partially, with limited development of ideas.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Basic organization of information, but not always logical.
• Lexical Resource: Limited range of vocabulary, adequate for basic communication.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Limited range of structures with frequent grammatical errors.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Digital divide (noun) – /ˈdɪdʒɪtl dɪˈvaɪd/ – The gap between those who have access to modern information technology and those who don’t.

2. Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.

3. Connectivity (noun) – /ˌkɒnekˈtɪvəti/ – The state of being connected or interconnected.

4. E-commerce (noun) – /ˈiːkɒmɜːs/ – Commercial transactions conducted electronically on the internet.

5. Entrepreneurship (noun) – /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːʃɪp/ – The activity of setting up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit.

6. Cybersecurity (noun) – /ˌsaɪbəsɪˈkjʊərəti/ – The state of being protected against the criminal or unauthorized use of electronic data.

7. Proactive (adjective) – /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – Creating or controlling a situation by causing something to happen rather than responding to it after it has happened.

8. Digital revolution (noun phrase) – /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˌrevəˈluːʃn/ – The advancement of technology from analog electronic and mechanical devices to the digital technology available today.

Government investment in technology benefiting education and economy

In conclusion, the topic of government funding for technology and internet access is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare, practice writing essays on similar themes, such as:

• The role of technology in education
• Government investment in scientific research
• The impact of internet access on rural development
• Balancing technology spending with other social needs

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and fully address all parts of the question. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.