The topic of animal testing in cosmetics has appeared multiple times in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly during 2019-2023. Based on analysis of past papers from the British Council and IDP, this theme commonly appears in Agree/Disagree or Discussion type questions. Let’s examine one frequently encountered variation of this topic.
Animal testing in modern cosmetics laboratory with researcher and equipment
Question Analysis
Some people believe that testing cosmetic products on animals should be banned worldwide. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This is an opinion essay requiring you to:
- Present your stance on worldwide ban of animal testing in cosmetics
- Support your position with relevant arguments and examples
- Maintain a clear and consistent opinion throughout
- Provide a balanced conclusion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In recent years, there has been growing controversy surrounding animal testing in the cosmetics industry, with many advocating for its complete prohibition globally. I strongly agree that such testing should be banned worldwide as it is both ethically problematic and scientifically unnecessary in today’s advanced technological landscape.
Firstly, animal testing for cosmetic products represents an unnecessary form of cruelty. Thousands of animals endure significant suffering through forced exposure to potentially harmful substances, merely to develop new beauty products. This practice cannot be justified ethically, especially considering that cosmetics are non-essential items primarily used for aesthetic enhancement. Moreover, many animals used in these tests experience severe pain, distress, and often death, which raises serious moral concerns about prioritizing human vanity over animal welfare.
Secondly, modern alternatives to animal testing have proven both effective and economically viable. Advanced technologies such as in-vitro testing, computer modeling, and human tissue cultures can now provide reliable safety data without involving animal subjects. Countries like the European Union have successfully implemented bans on animal testing while maintaining robust cosmetic industries, demonstrating that such prohibition does not hamper business growth or product innovation. Additionally, these alternative methods often provide more accurate results as they can be specifically designed to test human reactions.
Furthermore, a worldwide ban would create uniformity in international cosmetic standards and encourage innovation in cruelty-free testing methods. Currently, some companies continue animal testing to sell products in markets where such testing is mandatory, while maintaining cruelty-free lines for other markets. A global ban would eliminate this double standard and push the industry towards universal adoption of ethical testing practices.
In conclusion, considering both ethical implications and scientific advancement, I firmly support a worldwide ban on animal testing in cosmetics. This would not only prevent unnecessary animal suffering but also promote the development of more sophisticated and humane testing methods.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
The use of animals for testing cosmetic products is a big issue today. I agree that it should be stopped in all countries because it is cruel and we have other ways to test products.
First, animal testing causes a lot of pain to animals. Many animals like rabbits and mice are hurt when companies test new makeup or skin products on them. These tests can make the animals sick or even kill them. This is not fair because animals cannot choose if they want to be tested on. Also, they feel pain just like humans do.
Second, we now have better ways to test cosmetics. Scientists can use special machines and computers to check if products are safe. Some companies also use artificial skin or special cells in labs. These methods work well and don’t hurt any animals. Many successful companies already use these new methods and their products are still safe.
Another reason is that many people don’t want to buy products tested on animals. When companies stop animal testing, more people will buy their products. This is good for business. Also, if all countries ban animal testing, companies will have to follow the same rules everywhere.
In conclusion, I think animal testing for cosmetics should be banned everywhere because it is cruel to animals and we have better testing methods now. This will help both animals and companies.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Strengths:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Clear organization with well-developed arguments
- Strong cohesion and coherence throughout
- Varied and accurate use of grammar
- Relevant examples and specific details
Band 6.5 Essay Limitations:
- Simpler vocabulary and basic sentence structures
- Less developed arguments
- Basic cohesive devices
- Some grammatical errors
- More general examples
Key Vocabulary
- prohibition (n) /ˌprəʊɪˈbɪʃən/ – the act of forbidding something
- aesthetic enhancement (n) /esˈθetɪk ɪnˈhɑːnsmənt/ – improvement in appearance
- in-vitro testing (n) /ɪn ˈviːtrəʊ ˈtestɪŋ/ – testing performed in laboratory conditions
- cruelty-free (adj) /ˈkruːəlti friː/ – not tested on animals
- viable (adj) /ˈvaɪəbl/ – capable of working successfully
- mandatory (adj) /ˈmændətəri/ – required by law
- uniformity (n) /ˌjuːnɪˈfɔːməti/ – the quality of being the same
- innovation (n) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – new methods or ideas
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones like:
- Should animal testing be banned for all products, not just cosmetics?
- How can governments ensure companies comply with animal testing bans?
- What are the economic implications of banning animal testing globally?
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
