Space exploration has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays, often appearing in questions related to government spending and scientific research. Given its relevance to current global discussions on technological advancement and resource allocation, it’s likely to remain a popular topic in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a recent question on this subject and explore how to craft compelling responses across different band scores.
Some people think that governments should spend money on space exploration. Others believe that it is a waste of public money. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents a classic IELTS Writing Task 2 structure: discussing two opposing viewpoints and then providing a personal opinion. The topic revolves around the debate of government spending on space exploration, touching on themes of scientific progress, resource allocation, and public benefit.
Key aspects to address:
- Arguments for government investment in space exploration
- Arguments against such investment, viewing it as a waste of public funds
- Your personal stance on the issue, supported by logical reasoning
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response
Space exploration has long been a subject of debate when it comes to government spending. While some argue that it is a crucial investment for the future of humanity, others contend that these funds could be better utilized for more pressing earthly concerns. In my opinion, while there are valid arguments on both sides, the long-term benefits of space exploration justify continued government investment.
Proponents of space exploration argue that it drives technological innovation and scientific discovery, which can have far-reaching benefits for society. Many everyday technologies, such as GPS, weather forecasting systems, and satellite communications, have their roots in space research. Furthermore, space exploration could potentially provide solutions to global challenges such as resource depletion and climate change. For instance, asteroid mining could offer new sources of rare minerals, while studying other planets could enhance our understanding of Earth’s climate systems.
On the other hand, critics argue that the enormous sums spent on space programs could be better allocated to address immediate societal needs. They contend that issues such as poverty, healthcare, and education should take precedence over what they perceive as a luxury expense. Additionally, some argue that the potential benefits of space exploration are too uncertain and distant to justify such significant investment of public funds.
While I acknowledge the importance of addressing pressing societal issues, I believe that investment in space exploration is crucial for the long-term progress and survival of humanity. The technological advancements and scientific knowledge gained from space research have consistently proven their value in improving life on Earth. Moreover, as we face increasingly complex global challenges, the insights and innovations derived from space exploration may become even more critical.
In conclusion, while the debate over government spending on space exploration is complex, I believe that the potential benefits far outweigh the costs. By continuing to invest in space exploration, we not only push the boundaries of human knowledge but also drive innovation that can address both current and future challenges facing our planet.
(Word count: 317)
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response
The topic of government spending on space exploration is a controversial one. Some people think it’s important for the future, while others believe it’s a waste of money. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support space exploration say it helps develop new technologies. For example, many inventions we use today, like satellite TV and accurate weather forecasts, came from space research. They also argue that exploring space might help us find new resources or even places to live in the future. This could be important as Earth’s population grows and resources become scarce.
On the other hand, people against space exploration argue that the money could be better spent on solving problems on Earth. They say that issues like poverty, disease, and education need more funding. These problems affect people’s lives right now, while the benefits of space exploration might take many years to be seen. Some also think that space exploration is too risky and expensive for the uncertain rewards it offers.
In my opinion, I think that governments should continue to invest in space exploration, but in a balanced way. While it’s true that we have many problems on Earth that need attention, the long-term benefits of space research cannot be ignored. The technologies and knowledge gained from space exploration could help us solve some of Earth’s problems in the future.
To conclude, although space exploration is expensive, I believe its potential benefits make it a worthwhile investment. However, governments should also ensure that immediate social needs are not neglected in the process.
(Word count: 261)
Sample Essay 3: Band 5-6 Response
Space exploration is a topic that many people disagree about. Some think governments should spend money on it, but others say it’s a waste. I will talk about both sides and give my idea.
People who like space exploration say it’s good for new inventions. Many things we use every day came from space research, like special cameras and computers. They also say we might find new places to live or get materials from space in the future. This could help us when Earth has too many people or not enough resources.
But other people think space exploration costs too much money. They say we should use the money to help poor people, make better schools, or fix healthcare problems. These are things that can help people right now, not in the far future. Some people also think space exploration is dangerous and might not give us anything useful.
I think that space exploration is important, but we need to be careful about how much money we spend on it. We should try to balance between exploring space and fixing problems on Earth. Maybe we can use some of the new technologies from space research to help solve Earth’s problems too.
In conclusion, I believe space exploration can be good, but governments need to think carefully about how much money they spend on it. They should make sure they are also taking care of people’s needs on Earth.
(Word count: 228)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position throughout. Presents fully extended and well-developed ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Skilfully manages paragraphing with a clear central topic in each paragraph. Uses a range of cohesive devices appropriately.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary naturally and accurately. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others. Presents relevant main ideas but some may be inadequately developed/unclear.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Arranges information and ideas coherently and there is a clear overall progression. Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical.
- Lexical Resource: Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task. Attempts to use less common vocabulary but with some inaccuracy.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Makes some errors in grammar and punctuation but they rarely reduce communication.
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places. Expresses a position but the development is not always clear and there may be no conclusions drawn.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Presents information with some organisation but there may be a lack of overall progression. Makes inadequate, inaccurate or over-use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task. May make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses only a limited range of structures. Attempts complex sentences but these tend to be less accurate than simple sentences.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Space exploration (noun) – The investigation of physical conditions in space and on stars, planets, and other celestial bodies through the use of artificial satellites, space probes, and manned spacecraft.
Pronunciation: /speɪs ˌekspləˈreɪʃən/ -
Government spending (noun phrase) – The money spent by the government on public services and other state-controlled operations, functions, and projects.
Pronunciation: /ˈɡʌvənmənt ˈspendɪŋ/ -
Technological innovation (noun phrase) – The process of creating and introducing new methods, ideas, or products that lead to technological advancement.
Pronunciation: /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ -
Resource allocation (noun phrase) – The assignment of available resources to various uses in a way that maximizes efficiency or productivity.
Pronunciation: /rɪˈsɔːs ˌæləˈkeɪʃən/ -
Public benefit (noun phrase) – Advantage or profit gained by the general public from a particular action or policy.
Pronunciation: /ˈpʌblɪk ˈbenɪfɪt/ -
Long-term progress (noun phrase) – Advancement or improvement that occurs over an extended period.
Pronunciation: /lɒŋ tɜːm ˈprəʊɡres/ -
Scientific discovery (noun phrase) – The process of observing, identifying, and understanding previously unknown phenomena or principles in science.
Pronunciation: /ˌsaɪənˈtɪfɪk dɪsˈkʌvəri/ -
Global challenges (noun phrase) – Issues or problems that affect many countries or the entire world and require international cooperation to address.
Pronunciation: /ˈɡləʊbəl ˈtʃælɪndʒɪz/ -
Immediate societal needs (noun phrase) – Urgent requirements of a community or society that need to be addressed promptly.
Pronunciation: /ɪˈmiːdiət səˈsaɪətəl niːdz/ -
Balanced approach (noun phrase) – A method or strategy that considers and incorporates multiple perspectives or factors equally.
Pronunciation: /ˈbælənst əˈprəʊtʃ/
Conclusion
The topic of government investment in space exploration is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays due to its ongoing significance in global discussions about scientific progress and resource allocation. To prepare for potential questions on this theme, consider practicing with variations such as:
- Do you think private companies should lead space exploration instead of governments?
- How do the effects of space exploration impact the economy and everyday life?
- Should developing countries invest in space programs, or focus solely on domestic issues?
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about memorizing sample essays, but understanding how to structure your arguments, use appropriate vocabulary, and express your ideas clearly and coherently. Practice writing your own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active learning approach will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS exam.