Space tourism and its potential effects on future space exploration have become increasingly relevant topics in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This subject combines elements of technology, economics, and environmental concerns, making it a prime candidate for future test questions. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, we can expect to see more questions related to this theme in upcoming tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that space tourism will have a positive impact on future space exploration, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the positive impacts of space tourism on future space exploration
- Discuss the negative impacts or reasons why some disagree
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a Band 8-9 level response.
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Space tourism, once a concept confined to science fiction, is rapidly becoming a reality. While some argue that this emerging industry will significantly boost future space exploration efforts, others contend that it may hinder progress. In my opinion, despite some potential drawbacks, space tourism will ultimately have a positive impact on space exploration.
Proponents of space tourism argue that it will drive technological advancements and increase public interest in space exploration. As more private companies invest in space travel technologies, we can expect rapid innovations in spacecraft design, propulsion systems, and life support technologies. These improvements will not only benefit tourists but also contribute to more efficient and cost-effective space exploration missions. Moreover, how space tourism will influence future space research by generating public excitement and support for space-related endeavors cannot be understated. As more people experience space travel firsthand, it could lead to increased funding and political backing for ambitious exploration projects.
On the other hand, critics argue that space tourism may divert resources and attention from serious scientific missions. They contend that the focus on creating luxury experiences for wealthy tourists could come at the expense of funding for important research and exploration initiatives. Additionally, there are concerns about the environmental impact of frequent space launches and the potential for space debris, which could complicate future exploration efforts.
In my view, while these concerns are valid, the benefits of space tourism outweigh the potential drawbacks. The influx of private investment and innovation in the space sector will likely accelerate technological progress far beyond what government space agencies could achieve alone. Furthermore, how space exploration can lead to technological breakthroughs that benefit life on Earth is well-documented, and space tourism could amplify these positive effects. The challenges posed by space tourism, such as environmental concerns, can be addressed through regulations and continued technological improvements.
In conclusion, space tourism has the potential to revolutionize space exploration by driving innovation, increasing public interest, and attracting new resources to the field. While it is important to address the challenges it presents, the overall impact on future space exploration is likely to be overwhelmingly positive.
(Word count: 397)
Essay Analysis
This essay achieves a high band score (8-9) for several reasons:
- Task Response: It fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphs, each focusing on a specific point. Linking words and phrases are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: It uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a variety of complex sentence structures with very few errors.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Space tourism is becoming more popular these days, and people have different opinions about how it will affect future space exploration. Some think it will be good, while others disagree. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On the positive side, space tourism can help space exploration in several ways. Firstly, it can bring more money into the space industry. When rich people pay for space trips, this money can be used to develop new technologies that can also be used for exploration. Secondly, it can make more people interested in space. If more people travel to space, they might support more space projects in the future.
However, there are also negative views on this topic. Some people think that space tourism is just for fun and doesn’t help real scientific research. They worry that important space missions might get less attention and money because of tourism. Also, there are concerns about pollution in space from too many tourist flights.
In my opinion, I think space tourism will probably help space exploration more than it will hurt it. Even though there are some problems, the money and interest it brings to space activities will likely lead to new discoveries and technologies. The pros and cons of space tourism need to be carefully considered, but overall, I believe the benefits will be greater.
To conclude, space tourism has both good and bad points when it comes to future space exploration. While there are valid concerns, I believe that the positive impacts will be more significant in the long run.
(Word count: 295)
Essay Analysis
This essay falls within the Band 6-7 range for the following reasons:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the discussion and personal opinion could be more developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited.
- Lexical Resource: It uses an adequate range of vocabulary, but lacks the sophistication seen in higher band scores.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though there is room for more variety.
Key Vocabulary
Here are some key vocabulary items used in the essays, along with their definitions:
- Confined (adjective) – /kənˈfaɪnd/ – restricted or limited
- Contend (verb) – /kənˈtend/ – assert or argue
- Propulsion (noun) – /prəˈpʌlʃən/ – the action of driving or pushing forward
- Divert (verb) – /daɪˈvɜːrt/ – cause to change course or turn from one direction to another
- Debris (noun) – /dəˈbriː/ – scattered pieces of waste or remains
- Influx (noun) – /ˈɪnflʌks/ – an arrival or entry of large numbers of people or things
- Amplify (verb) – /ˈæmplɪfaɪ/ – increase the volume or effect of something
- Revolutionize (verb) – /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/ – change (something) radically or fundamentally
Conclusion
The topic of space tourism and its impact on future space exploration is likely to appear in various forms in upcoming IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The ethical implications of space tourism
- The role of private companies in space exploration
- The environmental impact of increased space activities
- The potential economic benefits of space tourism for developing countries
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and fully address all parts of the question. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.