The topic of genetic engineering and its ethical implications has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. What are the ethical implications of using genetic engineering? is a complex subject that requires careful consideration of multiple perspectives. Based on recent exam trends, this topic appears in approximately 15% of all technology and ethics-related questions.
Analysis of Recent IELTS Task 2 Question
Some people believe that genetic engineering and the modification of food crops is necessary to solve world hunger. Others think it is too dangerous to human health and the environment. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Genetic engineering in agriculture
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key points to address:
- Benefits regarding food security
- Potential risks to health and environment
- Personal stance with supporting arguments
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over genetic engineering in agriculture has intensified as advantages and disadvantages of genetic engineering become more apparent. While some advocate for its potential to address global food shortages, others express serious concerns about its safety implications. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of genetic modification argue that it offers crucial solutions to combat world hunger. Through genetic engineering, crops can be modified to increase yield, enhance nutritional content, and develop resistance to pests and adverse weather conditions. For instance, golden rice, enriched with vitamin A, has the potential to prevent millions of cases of childhood blindness in developing nations. Moreover, GM crops can grow in previously unsuitable conditions, potentially transforming arid regions into productive agricultural land.
However, critics raise valid concerns about the potential risks associated with genetic engineering. The long-term effects of consuming genetically modified foods on human health remain largely unknown, and some studies suggest possible links to allergies and antibiotic resistance. Additionally, there are environmental concerns about cross-pollination between GM and non-GM crops, which could lead to unintended consequences in local ecosystems and biodiversity loss.
In my opinion, while the concerns about genetic engineering deserve serious consideration, its potential benefits in addressing global food security cannot be ignored. I believe the solution lies in should governments regulate the use of genetic engineering? through strict regulatory frameworks and continued research to ensure safety. A balanced approach, combining genetic engineering with traditional farming methods and proper safety protocols, could help achieve food security while minimizing risks.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Genetic engineering in farming is a topic that many people disagree about. Some think it can help feed more people, while others worry it might be dangerous. I will discuss both sides and share what I think.
People who support genetic engineering say it can help grow more food. They believe that changing plant genes can make them stronger and produce more crops. For example, some modified plants can survive with less water or fight against insects better. This means farmers can grow more food to feed hungry people around the world.
On the other hand, many people think genetic engineering is risky. They worry that eating modified food might make people sick. Also, they think these plants might harm nature and other plants. Some farmers are afraid that modified plants will mix with their normal crops and cause problems.
I think genetic engineering can be helpful if we use it carefully. We should do more research to make sure it is safe, but we shouldn’t completely stop using it. Maybe we can use both old and new farming methods together to solve food problems.
Vocabulary Analysis
- genetic engineering (n) /dʒəˈnetɪk ˌendʒɪˈnɪərɪŋ/ – the science of changing the genes of living things
- biodiversity (n) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
- cross-pollination (n) /krɒs pəˌlɪˈneɪʃən/ – transfer of pollen between different plant species
- regulatory framework (n) /ˈregjʊləˌtɔri ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – system of rules and guidelines
- antibiotic resistance (n) /ˌæntɪbaɪˈɒtɪk rɪˈzɪstəns/ – ability of bacteria to resist antibiotics
Conclusion
Genetic engineering remains a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as:
- The role of genetic engineering in medicine
- Ethical considerations in human genetic modification
- Economic implications of GM technology
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.