Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: The Benefits of Cross-Disciplinary Research – Sample Essays and Analysis

Cross-disciplinary research is a topic that has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in academic and scientific circles. As an IELTS Writing Task 2 examiner, I’ve noticed an increasing trend of questions related to this subject appearing in actual tests. Based on this observation, it’s likely that we’ll continue to see similar topics in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS tests and analyze how to approach it effectively.

Cross-disciplinary research concept

Analyzing the Question

Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:

Some people believe that scientific research should be carried out and controlled by the governments rather than private companies. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

This question touches on the broader theme of cross-disciplinary research by addressing who should be responsible for scientific research. While it doesn’t directly mention cross-disciplinary studies, your response can incorporate this concept to strengthen your argument.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In the rapidly evolving landscape of scientific research, the question of who should oversee and conduct studies has become increasingly pertinent. While some argue that governments should have complete control over scientific research, I believe that a balanced approach involving both public and private sectors is more beneficial for advancing cross-disciplinary research and innovation.

Undoubtedly, government involvement in scientific research has several advantages. Firstly, governments can allocate substantial resources to long-term, fundamental research that may not have immediate commercial applications but is crucial for scientific progress. This is particularly important for cross-disciplinary studies that often require significant time and funding to yield results. Additionally, government-funded research can prioritize public interests and address societal challenges without being driven solely by profit motives.

However, relying exclusively on government control has its drawbacks. Private companies often bring efficiency, innovation, and market-driven focus to research endeavors. They can quickly adapt to changing needs and technologies, fostering a competitive environment that accelerates scientific breakthroughs. Moreover, the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration are often more readily realized in the private sector, where diverse teams can be assembled to tackle complex problems from multiple angles.

A collaborative approach between government and private entities can harness the strengths of both sectors. For instance, government funding can support basic research and set overarching priorities, while private companies can focus on applied research and commercialization. This synergy can lead to more comprehensive and impactful cross-disciplinary research outcomes. Furthermore, such collaboration can ensure ethical oversight while maintaining the agility and innovation often associated with private sector research.

In conclusion, while government involvement in scientific research is crucial, a balanced approach that incorporates both public and private sector participation is ideal. This collaborative model can maximize the benefits of cross-disciplinary research, ensuring that scientific advancements serve both public interests and drive economic growth. As we move forward, fostering partnerships between government agencies, academic institutions, and private companies will be key to addressing complex global challenges and pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge.

(Word count: 329)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The question of who should be in charge of scientific research is an important one. Some people think the government should control it, but I believe both government and private companies have important roles to play in scientific research, especially when it comes to cross-disciplinary studies.

Government involvement in research has some clear benefits. Governments can spend money on big, long-term projects that might not make money right away but are important for science. They can also focus on research that helps society, like finding cures for diseases or solving environmental problems. This is good for cross-disciplinary research because it often needs a lot of time and money.

On the other hand, private companies are also important for research. They can work faster and often come up with new ideas more quickly than government agencies. Private companies are good at turning scientific discoveries into products that people can use. They also often bring together experts from different fields, which is great for cross-disciplinary research.

I think the best approach is to have both government and private companies involved in scientific research. The government can provide funding and set broad goals, while private companies can focus on specific projects and turning research into practical applications. This way, we can get the benefits of both approaches.

For example, a government might fund basic research at universities, and then private companies could use that research to develop new technologies. This kind of teamwork can lead to better results in cross-disciplinary research because it combines different strengths and perspectives.

In conclusion, I believe that scientific research should be a shared responsibility between governments and private companies. This balanced approach can help advance cross-disciplinary research and lead to more scientific breakthroughs that benefit society.

(Word count: 280)

Key Points to Consider When Writing

1. Understanding the question: Make sure to address all parts of the question. In this case, you need to express your opinion on whether scientific research should be controlled by governments or private companies.

2. Incorporating cross-disciplinary research: While the question doesn’t explicitly mention cross-disciplinary research, incorporating this concept can enhance your essay and demonstrate a deeper understanding of the topic.

3. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more developed ideas and smoother transitions between paragraphs.

4. Vocabulary and grammar: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still conveys the main ideas effectively.

Important Vocabulary to Remember

1. Cross-disciplinary (adjective) /krɒs ˈdɪsəplɪnəri/: Involving two or more academic disciplines or fields of study
2. Interdisciplinary (adjective) /ˌɪntəˈdɪsəplɪnəri/: Relating to more than one branch of knowledge
3. Collaboration (noun) /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/: The action of working with someone to produce something
4. Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: The action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
5. Synergy (noun) /ˈsɪnədʒi/: The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects
6. Commercialization (noun) /kəˌmɜːʃəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/: The process of managing or running something principally for financial gain
7. Allocation (noun) /ˌæləˈkeɪʃn/: The action or process of allocating or distributing something
8. Fundamental research (noun phrase) /ˌfʌndəˈmentl rɪˈsɜːtʃ/: Research carried out to gain new scientific or technical knowledge for its own sake
9. Applied research (noun phrase) /əˈplaɪd rɪˈsɜːtʃ/: Research conducted to solve specific, practical problems
10. Ethical oversight (noun phrase) /ˈeθɪkl ˈəʊvəsaɪt/: The process of monitoring and ensuring that research is conducted in accordance with ethical standards

Conclusion

The topic of cross-disciplinary research and who should control scientific research is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare, practice writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The role of universities in promoting cross-disciplinary research
2. The impact of technology on interdisciplinary collaboration in science
3. The advantages and disadvantages of specialization versus broad, cross-disciplinary knowledge in education

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to practice regularly and analyze your own writing critically. Try writing an essay on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section for feedback. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and increase your chances of achieving a high band score in the IELTS exam.