Space exploration has been a captivating topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 for years, with questions about its economic benefits appearing regularly. As an experienced IELTS instructor, I’ve noticed this theme’s increasing frequency and predict it will remain relevant in future exams. Let’s explore some real and potential IELTS questions on this subject and provide sample essays to help you excel.
Some people think that space exploration is a waste of money and that there are more urgent needs to be addressed on Earth. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on the economic value of space exploration compared to Earth-based needs. It’s crucial to:
- Clearly state your position
- Provide balanced arguments
- Use specific examples to support your points
- Conclude with a summary of your stance
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
Space exploration has long been a subject of debate, with critics arguing that it diverts resources from pressing earthly concerns. While I acknowledge the importance of addressing immediate needs on our planet, I firmly believe that space exploration offers substantial long-term benefits that justify its costs.
Firstly, space exploration drives technological innovation that has far-reaching economic impacts. Many technologies we use daily, such as GPS, weather forecasting systems, and satellite communications, are direct results of space research. These innovations have created entirely new industries, generating jobs and economic growth. For instance, the global satellite industry alone was valued at $271 billion in 2020, demonstrating the massive economic potential of space-related technologies.
Moreover, space exploration can provide solutions to some of Earth’s most pressing problems. Climate change monitoring, natural disaster prediction, and resource management are all enhanced by satellite technology. Additionally, research into sustaining life in harsh space environments can lead to breakthroughs in agriculture and resource conservation on Earth. The development of water recycling systems for space stations, for example, has applications in addressing water scarcity in arid regions.
Critics argue that immediate issues like poverty and healthcare should take precedence. While these concerns are valid, it’s crucial to recognize that space exploration and addressing earthly needs are not mutually exclusive. In fact, many space technologies have direct applications in improving life on Earth. For example, NASA’s water purification technology, originally developed for astronauts, now provides clean water to millions in developing countries.
In conclusion, while we must continue to address immediate needs on Earth, the long-term benefits of space exploration are too significant to ignore. Its potential to drive innovation, create economic opportunities, and solve global challenges makes it a worthy investment for our future. A balanced approach that supports both space exploration and Earth-based initiatives is not only possible but necessary for comprehensive human progress.
(Word count: 309)
Band 6-7 Essay
The question of whether space exploration is a good use of money is a controversial topic. While some people think it’s a waste of resources, I believe that space exploration has important benefits for our economy and society.
One main reason why space exploration is valuable is because it leads to new technologies. Many things we use every day, like satellite TV and GPS, came from space research. These inventions have created new businesses and jobs, which is good for the economy. For example, companies that make satellites and space equipment employ many people and contribute to economic growth.
Another benefit of space exploration is that it can help us solve problems on Earth. Satellites are used to study climate change and predict natural disasters, which can save lives and money. Also, research on how to grow food in space could help us find better ways to farm on Earth, especially in difficult environments.
However, it’s true that there are many urgent problems on Earth that need money and attention. Issues like poverty, hunger, and lack of healthcare are very important and shouldn’t be ignored. But I think it’s possible to work on these problems and still invest in space exploration. The money spent on space is actually a small part of most countries’ budgets.
In conclusion, while we need to address immediate problems on Earth, space exploration is also important for our future. It brings economic benefits through new technologies and can help us find solutions to global challenges. I believe we should continue to invest in space exploration while also working to solve problems here on Earth.
(Word count: 267)
Band 5-6 Essay
Some people think spending money on space exploration is not good because there are many problems on Earth. I partly agree with this idea, but I also think space exploration has some good points.
It’s true that there are many big problems on Earth that need money. For example, many people are poor and don’t have enough food or good healthcare. These are very important issues that governments should try to fix. Spending a lot of money on space when people are suffering seems wrong.
But space exploration can also be good for people on Earth. It helps scientists invent new things that we can use in our daily lives. For example, the internet and mobile phones use satellites that were first made for space exploration. These inventions have made our lives easier and created many jobs.
Also, studying space can help us understand our planet better. Satellites can watch the weather and warn us about storms. This information can save lives. Space research can also help us find new ways to protect our environment.
In conclusion, I think we should spend money on both Earth problems and space exploration. We need to help people who are suffering now, but we should also think about the future. Space exploration can bring benefits that help everyone in the long term.
(Word count: 202)
Explaining the Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Explanation
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic:
- Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with fully extended and well-supported ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy.
Band 6-7 Essay Explanation
This essay shows a competent handling of the task:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though some aspects are more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some ideas may be inadequately developed.
- Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task, with some attempts at less common vocabulary.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with generally good control.
Band 5-6 Essay Explanation
This essay demonstrates a modest attempt at addressing the task:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses the task, but the format is not always appropriate, and ideas are not always well-developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The overall progression is evident, but not always well-maintained. Cohesive devices are limited.
- Lexical Resource: A limited range of vocabulary is used, adequate for basic communication.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Simple sentences are used accurately, but errors occur in more complex structures.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Space exploration (noun) – /speɪs ˌekspləˈreɪʃən/ – The investigation of physical conditions in space and on stars, planets, and other celestial bodies through the use of artificial satellites, space probes, and spacecraft with human crews.
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Technological innovation (noun phrase) – /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The process of translating an idea or invention into a good or service that creates value.
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Economic impact (noun phrase) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈɪmpækt/ – The effect that an event, policy change, or market trend has on the economy in an area.
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Resource allocation (noun phrase) – /rɪˈsɔːs ˌæləˈkeɪʃən/ – The distribution of resources, especially capital and human labor, among different uses.
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Long-term benefits (noun phrase) – /ˌlɒŋ ˈtɜːm ˈbenɪfɪts/ – Advantages or positive outcomes that are realized over an extended period.
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Climate change monitoring (noun phrase) – /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ ˈmɒnɪtərɪŋ/ – The process of observing and recording changes in climate patterns over time.
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Satellite technology (noun phrase) – /ˈsætəlaɪt tekˈnɒlədʒi/ – The application of artificial satellites for various purposes, including communication, navigation, and Earth observation.
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Mutual exclusivity (noun phrase) – /ˈmjuːtʃuəl ˌekskluːˈsɪvəti/ – The relationship between two or more events or states if they cannot occur at the same time.
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Global challenges (noun phrase) – /ˈgləʊbəl ˈtʃælɪndʒɪz/ – Issues or problems that affect the entire world and require international cooperation to address.
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Comprehensive progress (noun phrase) – /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv ˈprəʊɡres/ – Advancement or improvement that covers all aspects of a situation or area of development.
Conclusion
Mastering essays on the economic benefits of space exploration requires a deep understanding of the topic and strong writing skills. By studying these sample essays and explanations, you can improve your ability to tackle similar IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Remember to practice writing your own essays on this topic and related themes, such as:
- The role of international cooperation in space exploration
- The ethical implications of space commercialization
- The balance between space exploration and environmental protection on Earth
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.