The topic of ethics in scientific research is becoming increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent exam trends and the growing importance of this subject in academia and society, we can expect to see more questions related to this theme in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question that reflects this topic:
Some people believe that scientific research should be carried out and controlled by the governments rather than private companies. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on whether scientific research should be under government control or left to private companies. Key points to consider:
- The main topic is the control of scientific research
- Two options are presented: government control vs. private company control
- You need to state your level of agreement and provide reasons for your stance
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
In today’s rapidly advancing world, the question of who should oversee scientific research – governments or private companies – is a matter of significant debate. While both entities have important roles to play, I firmly believe that a balanced approach involving both government and private sector participation is crucial for ethical and effective scientific progress.
Government involvement in scientific research is essential for several reasons. Firstly, governments can ensure that research priorities align with public interests and national needs. They can direct funding towards areas that may not be immediately profitable but are crucial for societal well-being, such as research into rare diseases or environmental conservation. Secondly, government oversight can help maintain ethical standards and prevent potential abuses in sensitive areas like genetic engineering or artificial intelligence. The regulatory framework provided by governments can safeguard public safety and ensure that research adheres to ethical guidelines.
Government Funding Research
However, private companies also have a vital role in scientific research. Their profit-driven approach often leads to innovation and efficiency in research processes. Private sector involvement can accelerate the development of new technologies and bring scientific discoveries to market more quickly. Moreover, competition among private companies can foster creativity and push the boundaries of scientific knowledge. The pharmaceutical industry, for instance, has made significant strides in drug development due to private sector investment and competition.
The ideal scenario would be a collaborative model where governments and private companies work in tandem. Governments could set broad research agendas, provide basic funding, and establish ethical guidelines, while private companies contribute their expertise, resources, and market-driven innovation. This collaboration could lead to more comprehensive and impactful research outcomes. For example, the development of COVID-19 vaccines demonstrated how government funding and private sector expertise could combine to achieve rapid scientific breakthroughs.
Government and Private Sector Collaboration in Research
In conclusion, while government control is crucial for maintaining ethical standards and focusing on public interest research, the innovation and efficiency of private companies cannot be overlooked. A balanced approach that harnesses the strengths of both sectors is likely to yield the most beneficial outcomes for scientific progress and society as a whole.
(Word count: 329)
Band 6-7 Essay
The control of scientific research by governments or private companies is a complex issue. In my opinion, both have important roles to play, but I believe that government control should be the primary approach.
One main reason for government control is that it can ensure research benefits society as a whole. Governments can focus on areas that are important for public health and safety, even if they are not profitable. For example, research into rare diseases might not interest private companies, but governments can support this work. Also, government control can help maintain ethical standards in sensitive areas like genetic research.
However, private companies also have some advantages in scientific research. They often have more money to invest and can work faster to develop new products. For instance, pharmaceutical companies have created many important medicines. Private research can also lead to new technologies that improve our daily lives.
The best solution might be a mix of government and private research. Governments could set the main goals and rules, while private companies could contribute their resources and expertise. This way, we can have both ethical control and innovation.
In conclusion, while I believe government control is more important for ensuring ethical and socially beneficial research, a balanced approach involving both sectors could lead to the best outcomes for scientific progress.
(Word count: 218)
Band 5-6 Essay
I think that scientific research should be controlled by governments more than private companies. There are several reasons for this opinion.
Firstly, governments care about all people, not just making money. They can do research that helps everyone, even if it doesn’t make profit. For example, they can study how to clean the environment or cure rare diseases.
Secondly, governments can make sure research is safe and follows rules. They can stop dangerous experiments that might hurt people or the environment. Private companies might take risks to make money.
However, private companies are also important for research. They have lots of money and can work quickly. They make new products that we use every day. But I think they should work with the government and follow government rules.
In conclusion, I believe government control is better for scientific research, but private companies can help too. The best way is for them to work together, with the government making the main decisions.
(Word count: 153)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high-scoring IELTS response:
- Clear position with a nuanced view
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Excellent use of linking words and cohesive devices
- Varied sentence structures and sophisticated vocabulary
- Addresses all parts of the question thoroughly
Key vocabulary: rapidly advancing, ethical standards, regulatory framework, profit-driven approach, foster creativity, collaborative model
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay shows good understanding and writing skills:
- Clear opinion presented
- Relevant main points with some development
- Some use of linking words
- Adequate vocabulary with a few errors
- Addresses the main parts of the question
Key vocabulary: complex issue, public health and safety, ethical standards, pharmaceutical companies
Band 5-6 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates basic competence:
- Simple opinion expressed
- Basic ideas presented with limited development
- Simple linking words used
- Limited vocabulary with some repetition
- Addresses the question in a basic way
Key vocabulary: controlled by, making money, cure rare diseases, follow rules
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Ethical standards (noun) – /ˈeθɪkəl ˈstændərdz/ – Moral principles that guide behavior or conduct
- Oversight (noun) – /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – Supervision or watchful care
- Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The introduction of new ideas or methods
- Regulatory framework (noun phrase) – /ˈreɡjələtəri ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – A system of regulations and guidelines
- Collaborative (adjective) – /kəˈlæbərətɪv/ – Involving two or more parties working together
- Impactful (adjective) – /ɪmˈpæktfʊl/ – Having a major impact or effect
- Safeguard (verb) – /ˈseɪfɡɑːd/ – Protect from harm or damage
- Harness (verb) – /ˈhɑːnəs/ – Control and make use of (natural forces or power)
In conclusion, the topic of ethics in scientific research is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government funding in scientific research
- Ethical considerations in genetic engineering
- Balancing scientific progress with environmental protection
- The impact of private sector research on public health
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use relevant examples, and showcase a range of vocabulary. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.