The topic of science’s role in addressing global challenges is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on an analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to contemporary issues makes it a favorite among examiners. Let’s explore a common question format related to this topic and analyze sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that scientists alone cannot solve major problems in the world. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on the effectiveness of scientists in solving major global issues. It’s crucial to:
- Clearly state your position (agree, disagree, or partially agree)
- Provide reasons and examples to support your view
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Maintain a balanced perspective throughout your essay
Now, let’s examine sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s complex world, the notion that scientists alone can resolve major global challenges is a topic of heated debate. While I acknowledge the indispensable role of scientific research and innovation, I firmly believe that solving significant world problems requires a multifaceted approach involving various stakeholders, not just scientists.
Undeniably, scientists play a crucial role in identifying, analyzing, and proposing solutions to global issues. Their expertise is fundamental in areas such as climate change mitigation, disease control, and sustainable resource management. For instance, climate scientists have been instrumental in raising awareness about global warming and developing renewable energy technologies. Similarly, medical researchers have been at the forefront of combating pandemics and developing life-saving treatments. These contributions underscore the importance of scientific input in addressing world problems.
However, the implementation and success of scientific solutions often depend on factors beyond the scientific community’s control. Political will, economic considerations, and social acceptance are equally important in translating scientific findings into practical solutions. For example, while scientists have long advocated for reducing carbon emissions to combat climate change, the actual implementation of these recommendations requires political action, economic restructuring, and changes in societal behavior. The role of science in addressing climate change is crucial, but it cannot be effective without corresponding efforts from policymakers, industries, and the public.
Moreover, many global challenges have complex socio-economic roots that scientific solutions alone cannot address. Issues like poverty, inequality, and conflict require insights from social sciences, economics, and humanities. A holistic approach that combines scientific innovation with social, economic, and political strategies is often necessary for sustainable solutions. For instance, addressing global food security requires not only agricultural science but also considerations of distribution systems, economic policies, and cultural practices.
In conclusion, while scientists are indispensable in tackling major world problems, they cannot solve these issues in isolation. Effective solutions require a collaborative effort involving scientists, policymakers, businesses, and civil society. By recognizing the interconnected nature of global challenges and fostering interdisciplinary cooperation, we can develop more comprehensive and sustainable solutions to the world’s most pressing problems.
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that align with Band 8-9 criteria:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a well-developed argument.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Complex ideas are expressed with precision.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used flexibly and accurately. Errors are rare and minor.
Key strengths:
- Clear introduction with a well-defined thesis statement
- Balanced argument considering both the importance of scientists and the need for broader collaboration
- Specific examples to illustrate points (e.g., climate change, pandemics)
- Logical flow of ideas with effective use of topic sentences and transitions
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Strong conclusion that reinforces the main argument
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In today’s world, many people think that scientists alone cannot solve major global problems. I partially agree with this view because while scientists play a crucial role, other factors are also important in addressing world issues.
Scientists are very important in solving global problems. They have the knowledge and skills to research and find solutions to many issues. For example, scientists have made great progress in developing vaccines for diseases and finding ways to reduce pollution. Their work is essential for understanding and addressing challenges like climate change and health crises. Without scientists, we would not have many of the technologies and medicines that help us today.
However, scientists cannot solve all problems by themselves. Many global issues are complex and require more than just scientific solutions. For instance, to solve environmental problems, we need not only scientific knowledge but also cooperation from governments and changes in people’s behavior. Politicians need to make laws to protect the environment, and people need to change their habits to reduce pollution. Similarly, solving problems like poverty or hunger requires economic and social changes, not just scientific solutions.
Another reason why scientists alone cannot solve major problems is that implementing scientific solutions often requires money and support from society. Even if scientists discover a solution, it may not be used if it’s too expensive or if people don’t accept it. For example, renewable energy technologies exist, but they are not used everywhere because of cost and lack of infrastructure.
In conclusion, while scientists are very important in solving global problems, they cannot do it alone. A combination of scientific knowledge, political action, social change, and economic support is necessary to address major world issues effectively. Everyone in society has a role to play in solving these problems.
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good qualities that align with Band 6-7 criteria:
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Task Response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are organized logically, though the linking between ideas could be more sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used, with some attempts at less common words.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with generally good control.
Key strengths:
- Clear position stated in the introduction
- Relevant examples provided to support arguments
- Logical organization of ideas
- Attempts to use less common vocabulary
Areas for improvement:
- More sophisticated cohesive devices could be used
- Some ideas could be developed more fully
- Greater precision in vocabulary use in some instances
- More complex grammatical structures could be incorporated
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌl.tiˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/: Having many different aspects or features.
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Indispensable (adjective) /ˌɪn.dɪˈspen.sə.bəl/: Absolutely necessary.
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Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪt.ɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/: The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something.
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Implementation (noun) /ˌɪm.plɪ.menˈteɪ.ʃən/: The process of putting a plan into effect.
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Holistic (adjective) /həʊˈlɪs.tɪk/: Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected and can be explained only by reference to the whole.
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Interdisciplinary (adjective) /ˌɪn.tə.dɪsˈɪp.lɪ.nər.i/: Involving two or more academic disciplines.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
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Stakeholders (noun) /ˈsteɪkˌhəʊl.dərz/: People or groups that have an interest or concern in a business or project.
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Advocacy (noun) /ˈæd.və.kə.si/: Public support for or recommendation of a particular cause or policy.
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Collaboration (noun) /kəˌlæb.əˈreɪ.ʃən/: The action of working with someone to produce something.
Conclusion
The importance of science in solving global issues is a significant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Understanding how to approach this subject from various angles is crucial for success. Practice writing essays on related topics such as how space exploration can contribute to solving global challenges or the role of science in solving global environmental challenges.
For further practice, consider writing an essay on the following question:
Some people believe that international cooperation is essential for solving global environmental problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question allows you to explore the importance of global cooperation in fighting climate change while incorporating scientific perspectives. Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow learners.