Interdisciplinary research has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This trend reflects the growing recognition of its importance in academia and industry. Based on our analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, we predict that questions related to interdisciplinary research will continue to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore some potential essay questions on this subject and provide a detailed guide to help you tackle this topic effectively.
Analyzing the Essay Question
For this guide, we’ll focus on the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people believe that scientific research should be carried out and controlled by governments rather than private companies. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question touches on the broader theme of interdisciplinary research by addressing the control and management of scientific research. It requires candidates to consider the roles of both government and private sector in advancing scientific knowledge.
Sample Essays
Band 7-8 Essay
In the rapidly evolving landscape of scientific research, the question of who should control and conduct studies is increasingly pertinent. While some argue that governments should be the primary drivers of scientific inquiry, I believe that a balanced approach involving both public and private sectors is most beneficial for advancing knowledge and innovation.
Government-led research offers several advantages. Firstly, governments can prioritize projects that serve the public interest rather than being driven solely by profit motives. This is particularly crucial in areas such as environmental science, public health, and fundamental research, where immediate commercial applications may not be apparent. Secondly, government funding can ensure long-term, stable support for projects that require extensive time and resources. The Human Genome Project, a successful international collaboration primarily funded by governments, exemplifies this approach.
However, private companies also play a vital role in scientific research. They often bring efficiency, innovation, and market-driven focus to research endeavors. The pharmaceutical industry, for instance, has been instrumental in developing life-saving drugs and vaccines, driven by both profit incentives and the desire to solve pressing health issues. Moreover, competition among private entities can accelerate the pace of discovery and lead to more diverse approaches to problem-solving.
The ideal scenario, in my opinion, is a collaborative model where governments and private companies work in tandem. This interdisciplinary approach can leverage the strengths of both sectors. Governments can set research priorities, provide foundational funding, and ensure ethical oversight, while private companies can contribute expertise, additional resources, and efficient commercialization pathways. The development of COVID-19 vaccines in 2020 demonstrated the power of this collaboration, with governments funding basic research and private pharmaceutical companies rapidly developing and producing vaccines.
In conclusion, while government control ensures focus on public good and long-term stability, the innovation and efficiency of private companies are equally valuable. A balanced, collaborative approach that harnesses the strengths of both sectors is likely to yield the most significant scientific advancements and societal benefits.
(Word count: 309)
Band 6-7 Essay
The question of who should be responsible for scientific research is a complex one. Some people think that governments should be in charge, while others believe private companies should have control. In my opinion, both have important roles to play in scientific research.
Governments have some advantages when it comes to scientific research. They can focus on projects that help society as a whole, not just what makes money. For example, governments might research how to clean up pollution or cure rare diseases that drug companies might ignore because they’re not profitable. Also, governments can spend money on long-term projects that take many years to complete.
On the other hand, private companies also have strengths in research. They often work faster and more efficiently because they want to make a profit. This can lead to new discoveries and products coming to market more quickly. For instance, many new technologies we use every day, like smartphones, were developed by private companies.
I think the best solution is for governments and private companies to work together. Governments can set general goals for research and provide some funding, especially for basic science that doesn’t have immediate practical use. Private companies can then use this basic knowledge to develop new products and technologies. This cooperation can lead to better results than either group working alone.
One good example of this is medical research. Governments often fund basic research into how diseases work, and then private pharmaceutical companies use this knowledge to develop new medicines. This combination has led to many important medical breakthroughs.
In conclusion, while governments play a crucial role in guiding and supporting scientific research, private companies also contribute significantly. A balanced approach that combines the strengths of both sectors is likely to produce the best outcomes for society.
(Word count: 292)
Key Points to Consider When Writing
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Understanding the question: Make sure you fully grasp what the question is asking. In this case, it’s about who should control and carry out scientific research.
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Taking a clear position: While it’s fine to see merits in both sides, make sure you have a clear overall stance. In the band 7-8 essay, the position is that a balanced, collaborative approach is best.
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Providing specific examples: Both essays use concrete examples to illustrate their points, which strengthens the arguments.
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Structuring your essay: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing different aspects, and a conclusion.
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Using appropriate vocabulary: The band 7-8 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrasing, which contributes to its higher score.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
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Interdisciplinary (adjective) /ˌɪntərˈdɪsəplɪneri/: Involving two or more academic disciplines.
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Collaboration (noun) /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/: The action of working with someone to produce something.
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: A new method, idea, product, etc.
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Commercialization (noun) /kəˌmɜːrʃəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/: The process of managing or running something principally for financial gain.
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Foundational (adjective) /faʊnˈdeɪʃənl/: Serving as a basis or groundwork.
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Leverage (verb) /ˈlevərɪdʒ/: Use (something) to maximum advantage.
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Pertinent (adjective) /ˈpɜːrtɪnənt/: Relevant or applicable to a particular matter.
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Exemplify (verb) /ɪɡˈzemplɪfaɪ/: Be a typical example of.
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Accelerate (verb) /əkˈseləreɪt/: Increase in rate, amount, or extent.
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Harness (verb) /ˈhɑːrnɪs/: Control and make use of (natural forces or power).
Conclusion
The topic of interdisciplinary research and who should control scientific studies is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of international cooperation in scientific research
- The ethics of privately funded scientific studies
- The impact of interdisciplinary approaches on solving global challenges
- The balance between applied and basic research in advancing scientific knowledge
Remember to always analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, and use specific examples to support your arguments. With practice, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question on this topic that may appear in your IELTS exam.