Space exploration and its impact on scientific advancements is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and historical data from official IELTS exams, this topic has a high likelihood of appearing in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that space exploration is a waste of resources while others believe that it is essential for the survival of humankind in the future. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that space exploration is a waste of resources
- Discuss the view that space exploration is essential for human survival
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your personal stance.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Space exploration has been a topic of heated debate, with some arguing it squanders valuable resources while others contend it’s crucial for humanity’s future. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Those who oppose space exploration often cite the enormous costs involved. They argue that the billions spent on space missions could be better allocated to address pressing issues on Earth, such as poverty, healthcare, and education. Furthermore, critics point out that many space endeavors have yielded limited tangible benefits for the average person, making it difficult to justify such substantial investments.
On the other hand, proponents of space exploration emphasize its long-term potential for ensuring human survival. They argue that as Earth’s resources dwindle and environmental challenges intensify, colonizing other planets may become necessary for our species’ continuation. Additionally, space research has led to numerous technological advancements that have improved life on Earth, including satellite communications, weather forecasting, and medical innovations.
In my opinion, while the concerns about resource allocation are valid, the benefits of space exploration far outweigh its costs. The scientific discoveries and technological innovations resulting from space research have profoundly impacted our daily lives and will continue to do so. Moreover, the inspiration and knowledge gained from exploring the cosmos can foster a global perspective and drive further advancements in various fields.
In conclusion, although space exploration requires significant resources, its potential to secure humanity’s future and drive scientific progress makes it a worthwhile endeavor. Balancing these investments with addressing immediate earthly concerns is crucial, but we must not lose sight of the long-term benefits that space exploration can offer to our species and our understanding of the universe.
(Word count: 275)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Space exploration is a controversial topic. Some people think it’s a waste of money, while others believe it’s important for human survival. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who are against space exploration say it costs too much money. They think we should use this money to solve problems on Earth, like poverty and hunger. They also say that space missions don’t help ordinary people in their daily lives.
On the other hand, supporters of space exploration argue that it’s necessary for our future. They say that we might need to live on other planets one day if Earth becomes too crowded or polluted. They also point out that space research has led to many useful inventions, like better computers and medical equipment.
In my opinion, I think space exploration is important and worth the cost. Although it’s expensive, it has given us many benefits. For example, satellites help us with communication and weather forecasting. Space research also inspires young people to study science and technology, which is good for our future.
To conclude, while space exploration is costly, I believe its advantages outweigh its disadvantages. It helps us develop new technologies and may be crucial for our survival in the future. However, we should also make sure we’re addressing current problems on Earth while exploring space.
(Word count: 218)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Some people think space exploration is a waste of money, but others say it’s important for humans in the future. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
People who don’t like space exploration say it costs too much. They think we should use the money to help poor people or fix problems on Earth. They also say that space missions don’t help normal people in their lives.
But other people think space exploration is good. They say we might need to live on other planets if Earth gets too full or dirty. They also say that space research has made many good things, like better phones and computers.
I think space exploration is good. It costs a lot of money, but it helps us in many ways. We can use satellites for talking to people far away and knowing about the weather. It also makes young people want to learn about science, which is good for our future.
In conclusion, I believe space exploration is important even though it’s expensive. It helps us make new things and might help us live in the future. But we should also try to fix problems on Earth at the same time.
(Word count: 184)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Provides well-developed paragraphs with clear progression throughout
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, although some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, although the conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task with some evidence of style and flexibility
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information coherently and there is clear overall progression
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary; errors may occur when expressing complex ideas
- Uses a limited range of structures with some attempt to use more complex sentences
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Space exploration (noun) – /speɪs ˌekspləˈreɪʃn/ – 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.
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Scientific advancement (noun phrase) – /ˌsaɪənˈtɪfɪk ədˈvænsmənt/ – Progress or improvement in scientific knowledge, methods, or applications.
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Resource allocation (noun phrase) – /rɪˈsɔːs ˌæləˈkeɪʃn/ – The process of distributing resources, especially money, among competing groups or programs.
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Technological innovation (noun phrase) – /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – The process of translating an idea or invention into a good or service that creates value.
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Long-term potential (noun phrase) – /ˌlɒŋ tɜːm pəˈtenʃl/ – The possibility for future success or usefulness over an extended period.
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Tangible benefits (noun phrase) – /ˈtændʒəbl ˈbenɪfɪts/ – Advantages or improvements that can be clearly seen or measured.
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To colonize (verb) – /ˈkɒlənaɪz/ – To send a group of settlers to a place and establish political control over it.
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To foster (verb) – /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – To encourage or promote the development of something.
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Global perspective (noun phrase) – /ˈɡləʊbl pəˈspektɪv/ – A way of thinking about and understanding issues from a worldwide point of view.
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Endeavor (noun) – /ɪnˈdevə(r)/ – An attempt to achieve a goal or a serious effort or attempt to do something.
Conclusion
The impact of space exploration on scientific advancements is a significant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the different perspectives and being able to articulate them clearly, you can improve your performance in the exam. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as:
- The role of international cooperation in space exploration
- The ethics of spending on space programs versus addressing Earth’s problems
- The potential of space tourism and its impact on the environment
To further enhance your skills, try writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you internalize the structures and vocabulary needed for a high-scoring IELTS essay.