The topic of renewable energy investments has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams over the past few years. Based on recent trends and the growing global focus on sustainability, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. To help you prepare, we’ve selected a relevant question from past exams and created sample essays for different band scores.

Some people think that governments should invest in projects to explore outer space, while others believe that money should be spent on improving living standards on Earth. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question asks you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints on government spending priorities: space exploration versus improving living conditions on Earth. The topic of renewable energy investments can be seamlessly integrated into the argument for improving living standards. Let’s break down the key elements:

1. Discuss both views: You need to present arguments for both space exploration and improving Earth’s living standards.
2. Give your own opinion: You must clearly state your stance on the issue.
3. Task response: Ensure you address all parts of the question in your essay.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response

In recent years, there has been an ongoing debate about whether governments should allocate funds to space exploration or focus on enhancing living conditions on our planet. While both perspectives have merit, I believe that prioritizing Earth-based improvements, particularly through investing in renewable energy stocks, is more crucial for our immediate future.

Proponents of space exploration argue that it drives technological innovation and expands our scientific knowledge. They contend that discoveries made in space research often have practical applications on Earth, citing examples such as satellite technology and advanced materials developed for spacecraft. Moreover, they believe that exploring the cosmos is essential for the long-term survival of humanity, potentially leading to the colonization of other planets.

On the other hand, those who advocate for improving living standards on Earth emphasize the pressing issues facing our planet. They argue that governments should address problems such as poverty, healthcare, education, and environmental degradation before venturing into space. A significant aspect of this improvement involves the importance of renewable energy investments, which can simultaneously tackle climate change and enhance quality of life. By focusing on sustainable energy solutions, we can create jobs, reduce pollution, and ensure a more stable future for generations to come.

In my opinion, while space exploration undoubtedly has its merits, the immediate needs of our planet should take precedence. The impact of renewable energy projects on local communities cannot be overstated, as they provide clean power, economic opportunities, and improved health outcomes. Furthermore, investing in sustainable technologies can lead to innovations that may eventually benefit space exploration, creating a win-win situation.

In conclusion, although space exploration is valuable, I believe that governments should prioritize Earth-based improvements, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy investments. By addressing our planet’s pressing issues first, we can create a more stable foundation from which to explore the cosmos in the future.

(Word count: 309)

Renewable energy investments improving living standards

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response

There is a debate about whether governments should spend money on space exploration or on improving life on Earth. Both sides have good points, but I think it’s more important to focus on making our planet better.

People who support space exploration say it’s important for science and technology. They think we can learn new things that might help us on Earth. For example, some inventions from space research are now used in our daily lives. Also, they believe that exploring space might help us find new places to live in the future.

On the other hand, people who want to improve life on Earth say we have many problems here that need fixing first. They talk about things like poverty, health care, and education. One big issue is the environment, and that’s where renewable energy is really important. Investing in clean energy can help fight climate change and make our lives better. It can also create new jobs and reduce pollution in our cities and towns.

I agree more with the second view. While space exploration is interesting, I think we need to solve our problems on Earth first. The importance of promoting renewable energy in developing nations is especially crucial. Clean energy can help poor countries grow their economies without harming the environment. It can also improve people’s health by reducing air pollution.

To sum up, although space exploration has some benefits, I believe governments should focus more on making life better on Earth, especially by investing in renewable energy. This will help us create a healthier and more sustainable world for everyone.

(Word count: 268)

Sample Essay 3: Band 5-6 Response

Some people think governments should spend money on space projects, but others say we should use money to make life better on Earth. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.

People who like space projects say they are good for science. We can learn new things that might help us on Earth. They also think we might find new places to live in space one day.

But other people think we should fix problems on Earth first. They say we need to help poor people, make better schools, and stop pollution. They think renewable energy is very important. Clean energy can help stop climate change and make our air cleaner.

I think it’s better to spend money on Earth problems. We need to help people now. Renewable energy investments can make new jobs and help poor countries. It’s good for our health too because it makes less pollution.

In conclusion, I believe governments should use money to make Earth better, especially by using more clean energy. This will help everyone have a better life now and in the future.

(Word count: 167)

Explaining the Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

• Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position throughout.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with a clear progression.
• Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy.

Band 6-7 Essay:

• Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are arranged coherently, but with occasional lapses in progression.
• Lexical Resource: Adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some attempts at less common vocabulary.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Mix of simple and complex sentence forms, with some errors that do not impede communication.

Band 5-6 Essay:

• Task Response: Addresses the task only partially, with limited development of ideas.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Overall progression is evident, but not always well-maintained.
• Lexical Resource: Limited range of vocabulary, adequate for basic communication.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Limited range of structures with frequent errors, though meaning is generally clear.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Allocate (verb) /ˈæləkeɪt/ – to give something officially to someone for a particular purpose
2. Prioritize (verb) /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – to decide which of a group of things are the most important so that you can deal with them first
3. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over a period of time
4. Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – a new idea, method, or invention
5. Degradation (noun) /ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – the process of becoming worse or of making something worse
6. Precedence (noun) /ˈpresɪdəns/ – the condition of being considered more important than someone or something else
7. Venture (verb) /ˈventʃə(r)/ – to risk going somewhere or doing something that might be dangerous or unpleasant
8. Colonization (noun) /ˌkɒlənaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – the act of sending people to live in and govern another country
9. Proponent (noun) /prəˈpəʊnənt/ – a person who supports an idea or course of action
10. Crucial (adjective) /ˈkruːʃl/ – extremely important or necessary

In conclusion, the topic of renewable energy investments is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as environmental conservation, government spending priorities, and technological advancements. Remember to analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and further improvement!