Space exploration has been a popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 for several years, with questions focusing on its benefits, drawbacks, and impact on society. Based on recent trends, it’s highly likely that questions related to space exploration and technological advancements will continue to appear in future IELTS exams. One particular aspect that has gained traction is how space exploration can lead to technological breakthroughs. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams:

Some people think that space exploration is a waste of money and resources, while others believe it has led to significant technological advancements. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question perfectly encapsulates the debate surrounding space exploration and its impact on technological progress. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Question Analysis

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that space exploration is a waste of money and resources
2. Discuss the view that space exploration has led to significant technological advancements
3. Provide your own opinion on the matter

Remember to address all parts of the question and maintain a balanced approach while presenting your arguments.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Space exploration has been a subject of intense debate, with some arguing it squanders valuable resources while others tout its technological benefits. In my opinion, while space exploration does require substantial investment, its contribution to technological advancement far outweighs the costs.

Those who view space exploration as a waste of money often point to the enormous financial resources required for space missions. They argue that these funds could be better allocated to solving pressing issues on Earth, such as poverty, healthcare, and education. Additionally, critics contend that the immediate benefits of space exploration are not always apparent to the general public, leading to skepticism about its value.

However, proponents of space exploration highlight the numerous technological breakthroughs that have emerged from space research. Many innovations we take for granted today, such as satellite communications, GPS technology, and weather forecasting systems, are direct results of space exploration efforts. These advancements have revolutionized various industries and improved our daily lives in countless ways. Furthermore, space exploration has led to the development of new materials and technologies that have found applications in fields ranging from medicine to environmental protection.

The impact of space exploration on scientific advancement extends beyond tangible inventions. The pursuit of space exploration fosters a culture of innovation and pushes the boundaries of human knowledge. It inspires new generations of scientists and engineers, driving progress in various scientific disciplines. Moreover, the challenges of space exploration often lead to the development of solutions that can be applied to terrestrial problems, such as renewable energy and resource management.

In my view, while the costs of space exploration are undeniably high, the technological and scientific benefits it yields are invaluable. The advancements stemming from space research have not only improved our quality of life but have also contributed to addressing global challenges. As we face increasingly complex issues on Earth, the innovative spirit and technological prowess fostered by space exploration will be crucial in finding solutions.

In conclusion, although space exploration requires significant investment, its role in driving technological progress and scientific discovery is undeniable. The benefits it brings to society, both in terms of practical innovations and broader scientific knowledge, justify the resources allocated to it. As we continue to explore the cosmos, we can expect even more groundbreaking technologies that will shape our future in ways we can scarcely imagine.

(Word count: 395)

Space exploration leading to technological breakthroughs

Essay 1 Analysis (Band 8-9)

This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that would likely earn it a Band 8 or 9 score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and logical progression of ideas. Cohesive devices are used effectively throughout.

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Complex phrases like “squanders valuable resources,” “pressing issues,” and “fosters a culture of innovation” demonstrate sophisticated language use.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly. Complex sentences are used effectively without errors that impede communication.

5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, showing depth of analysis and critical thinking.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Space exploration is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it’s a waste of money, while others believe it has helped create new technologies. I will discuss both sides and give my own thoughts on this matter.

People who say space exploration is a waste of money have some good points. Space missions cost a lot of money that could be used for other important things like helping poor people or improving schools and hospitals. Also, some people think that space exploration doesn’t help solve problems on Earth, so we shouldn’t spend so much on it.

On the other hand, there are many who believe space exploration has led to important technological advancements. Many things we use every day, like satellite TV, GPS, and weather forecasts, came from space technology. These inventions have made our lives easier and better in many ways. Space exploration has also helped create new materials and technologies that are used in many different areas, like medicine and protecting the environment.

How space exploration benefits Earth is clear when we look at all the new inventions it has created. It also encourages scientists and engineers to think of new ideas and solve difficult problems. This kind of thinking can help us find solutions to problems on Earth too.

In my opinion, even though space exploration costs a lot of money, the benefits it brings are worth it. The new technologies and knowledge we gain from exploring space can help us in many ways. It’s important to continue investing in space exploration because it can lead to more discoveries and inventions that will improve our lives in the future.

To conclude, while space exploration is expensive, I believe its contributions to technological progress make it a worthwhile investment. The advancements it brings in science and technology can help us solve problems on Earth and make our lives better.

(Word count: 329)

Everyday applications of space technology

Essay 2 Analysis (Band 6-7)

This essay demonstrates qualities that would likely earn it a Band 6 or 7 score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the question, presenting both viewpoints and the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with appropriate paragraphing. Some cohesive devices are used, but they could be more varied.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, with some attempts at more sophisticated language. However, there is less precision and variety compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major errors that impede communication.

5. Development of Ideas: Main points are supported with relevant ideas, but the level of detail and explanation is not as extensive as in the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Space exploration (noun) – the investigation of outer space using spacecraft
   Pronunciation: /speɪs ˌekspləˈreɪʃən/

2. Technological breakthrough (noun phrase) – a significant development or discovery in technology
   Pronunciation: /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˈbreɪkθruː/

3. Innovation (noun) – a new method, idea, product, etc.
   Pronunciation: /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/

4. Allocate (verb) – to distribute for a particular purpose
   Pronunciation: /ˈæləkeɪt/

5. Skepticism (noun) – doubt about the truth of something
   Pronunciation: /ˈskeptɪsɪzəm/

6. Revolutionize (verb) – to change something completely and fundamentally
   Pronunciation: /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/

7. Foster (verb) – to encourage the development of something
   Pronunciation: /ˈfɒstə(r)/

8. Invaluable (adjective) – extremely useful or indispensable
   Pronunciation: /ɪnˈvæljuəbl/

9. Squander (verb) – to waste resources or opportunities
   Pronunciation: /ˈskwɒndə(r)/

10. Groundbreaking (adjective) – innovative; pioneering
    Pronunciation: /ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪkɪŋ/

In conclusion, the topic of space exploration and its impact on technological advancements is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for such questions, practice writing essays that discuss both the benefits and drawbacks of space exploration, while also considering its broader impact on society and technological progress. Is space exploration worth the investment? This is a question you might want to explore further in your practice essays.

For additional practice, try writing an essay on the following potential future topic:

“Some people argue that space tourism should be encouraged as it can lead to technological advancements, while others believe it should be restricted due to its environmental impact. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS aspirants.