Space exploration and its impact on technological advancements is a fascinating topic that has been featured in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and past exam questions, this subject is likely to appear in future tests due to its relevance in our rapidly evolving world. Let’s examine a sample question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams:
Some people think that space research is a waste of money and resources. Others believe it has great benefits for technological advancements. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for and against space research
- Consider its impact on technological advancements
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter
Now, let’s explore sample essays for different band scores, along with detailed analyses.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Space exploration has been a subject of debate, with some arguing it’s a waste of resources while others champion its technological benefits. In my opinion, the advantages of space research far outweigh its costs, particularly in driving technological innovation.
Those who oppose space research often cite its enormous expenses and argue that these funds could be better allocated to solving immediate earthly problems like poverty, healthcare, and education. They contend that investing in space exploration diverts crucial resources from more pressing issues that directly impact people’s lives on Earth.
However, proponents of space research emphasize its pivotal role in fostering technological advancements that benefit humanity in numerous ways. Space exploration has led to groundbreaking innovations in fields such as telecommunications, weather forecasting, and GPS technology. These developments have revolutionized our daily lives, improving communication, enhancing safety, and boosting economic productivity. Moreover, space research has yielded crucial insights into climate change and environmental monitoring, contributing to our understanding and mitigation of global challenges.
Furthermore, the spillover effects of space technology into other sectors cannot be overstated. Innovations originally designed for space missions have found applications in medicine, materials science, and energy efficiency. For instance, memory foam, initially developed for NASA spacecraft seats, is now widely used in mattresses and protective equipment. Such examples demonstrate how space research indirectly benefits various aspects of our lives.
In my view, while the costs of space exploration are significant, its contributions to technological progress and scientific knowledge are invaluable. The long-term benefits of space research in driving innovation, inspiring future generations, and addressing global challenges make it a worthwhile investment. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance, ensuring that space research doesn’t completely overshadow funding for immediate societal needs.
In conclusion, although space research requires substantial resources, its role in advancing technology and expanding human knowledge is undeniable. By continuing to invest in space exploration while addressing pressing earthly concerns, we can harness its benefits to create a more technologically advanced and sustainable future for all.
(Word count: 329)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent coherence, cohesion, and a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, justifying a high band score:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Examples include “pivotal role,” “groundbreaking innovations,” and “spillover effects.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It displays a wide range of structures with flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are used effectively, such as “Those who oppose space research often cite its enormous expenses and argue that these funds could be better allocated to solving immediate earthly problems like poverty, healthcare, and education.”
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to the topic.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The topic of space research and its value has been debated for a long time. Some people think it’s a waste of money, while others believe it helps technology improve. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who are against space research say it costs too much money. They think this money should be used for solving problems on Earth, like helping poor people or improving education. They argue that these issues are more important and need immediate attention.
On the other hand, supporters of space research say it brings many benefits, especially for technology. Space exploration has led to many new inventions that we use every day. For example, smartphones use technology that was first made for space missions. Also, satellites help us with weather forecasts and GPS navigation. These things make our lives easier and safer.
Another good thing about space research is that it inspires people, especially young students, to study science and technology. This can lead to more progress in the future. Space missions also teach us about our planet and the universe, which is important for understanding climate change and other environmental issues.
In my opinion, space research is worth the money we spend on it. Even though it’s expensive, the benefits we get from new technology and scientific knowledge are very valuable. However, I think we should also make sure we spend enough money on solving problems on Earth.
To conclude, I believe that space research is important for technological progress and should continue. At the same time, we need to balance it with other needs in society to make sure everyone benefits.
(Word count: 275)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good control of language and addresses the task, warranting a Band 6-7 score:
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Task Achievement: The essay covers the main points of the task, discussing both views and offering a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: There’s a clear overall progression, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes mechanical. Paragraphing is appropriate.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary, with some attempts at less common words. However, there’s room for more sophisticated vocabulary use.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It shows a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. There are no major errors, but the range could be wider for a higher score.
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Development of Ideas: Main ideas are relevant, but some points could be extended or supported with more specific examples.
Key Vocabulary
Here are some important vocabulary items from the essays, along with their definitions and pronunciations:
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Exploration (noun) /ˌekspləˈreɪʃn/: The act of traveling to or around an unfamiliar area in order to learn about it.
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: A new idea, method, or device.
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Groundbreaking (adjective) /ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪkɪŋ/: Innovative; pioneering.
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Spillover (noun) /ˈspɪlˌoʊvər/: An indirect effect or result of an activity.
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Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/: The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something.
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Invaluable (adjective) /ɪnˈvæljuəbl/: Extremely useful; indispensable.
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Overshadow (verb) /ˌoʊvərˈʃædoʊ/: To appear more prominent or important than something else.
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Harness (verb) /ˈhɑːrnəs/: To control and use (a force or source of energy) to produce power or achieve a particular effect.
Conclusion
The topic of space research and its impact on technological advancements is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Similar questions might focus on the role of space exploration in scientific advancement or the impact of space exploration on solving earth-based problems. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The ethical implications of space exploration
- The potential economic benefits of space tourism
- The role of international cooperation in space research
Remember to structure your essays 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. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.