Space exploration and government spending priorities have been recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 2-3 times annually since 2019. The topic combines elements of public spending, scientific advancement, and social welfare – all common IELTS themes. Let’s analyze a recent exam question:
Some people believe that governments should spend money on space exploration programs, while others think this money should be used to solve problems on Earth. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Government spending priorities
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key aspects to cover:
- Arguments for space exploration
- Arguments for Earth-focused spending
- Personal stance with justification
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over allocating government funds between space exploration and terrestrial issues is increasingly relevant in today’s world. While both directions have merit, I believe a balanced approach favoring Earth’s immediate challenges while maintaining space research is optimal.
Those advocating for space exploration programs argue that such investments drive technological innovation and scientific discovery. The development of satellite technology, for instance, has revolutionized telecommunications and weather forecasting. Furthermore, space research may eventually provide solutions to Earth’s resource limitations through asteroid mining or identify habitable planets as humanity’s backup plan.
Various applications of space technology in everyday life
Conversely, proponents of Earth-focused spending emphasize the pressing issues requiring immediate attention. Poverty, healthcare accessibility, and environmental degradation affect millions globally. These advocates contend that investing in space programs while people lack basic necessities is morally questionable. Moreover, addressing climate change and developing sustainable energy solutions could yield more immediate benefits for humanity.
In my view, while space exploration offers tremendous long-term potential, governments should prioritize addressing immediate terrestrial challenges while maintaining modest space research funding. A balanced 80-20 allocation between Earth-focused and space programs could optimize outcomes. This approach ensures continued scientific advancement while tackling urgent social and environmental issues.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Many people disagree about whether governments should spend money on space programs or use it to solve problems on Earth. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support space exploration say it is important for several reasons. First, it helps develop new technology that we can use on Earth. Second, it might help us find new places to live in the future. Also, space research creates many jobs for people.
However, other people think this money should help solve Earth’s problems. There are many poor people who need food and medicine. Also, many countries have problems with pollution and climate change. They think it’s better to fix these problems first before spending money on space.
I think both sides have good points, but I agree more with using money to solve Earth’s problems. While space exploration is interesting, we should first make sure everyone has enough food, education, and healthcare. Maybe we can spend some money on space, but not too much.
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Clear position and sophisticated argument development
- Excellent cohesion and paragraphing
- Advanced vocabulary and complex structures
- Key strengths: Balanced views, sophisticated transitions, academic tone
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Basic but clear organization
- Limited range of vocabulary and structures
- Simple but adequate development
- Areas for improvement: More sophisticated vocabulary, complex sentence structures
Key Vocabulary
- terrestrial (adj) /təˈrestriəl/ – relating to Earth
- allocation (n) /ˌæləˈkeɪʃn/ – distribution of resources
- degradation (n) /ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – deterioration
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – environmentally sound
- optimization (n) /ˌɒptɪmaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – making the best use of
Similar topics you might encounter:
- Government spending on military vs. social welfare
- Research funding priorities in developing countries
- Technology investment vs. basic infrastructure development
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback!
