The topic of using animals for scientific research is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and the current relevance of ethical debates in science, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a common question format related to this topic:
Some people think that it is acceptable to use animals in scientific research for the benefit of human beings, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents a balanced approach to the topic of animal research ethics. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments in favor of using animals for scientific research
- Present counterarguments against animal testing
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter
The key challenge lies in presenting both perspectives objectively while clearly stating and supporting your own stance.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The use of animals in scientific experiments has long been a contentious issue, with proponents arguing for its necessity in advancing human health and opponents decrying it as unethical. While both sides present valid points, I believe that carefully regulated animal research can be ethically justified when significant human benefits are at stake.
Those in favor of animal testing argue that it has been crucial in developing life-saving treatments and medications. Many medical breakthroughs, from insulin for diabetes to vaccines for polio, have relied on animal studies. Proponents contend that the complexity of living systems cannot be fully replicated in computer models or cell cultures, making animal research an irreplaceable step in understanding diseases and testing new therapies. Moreover, they argue that the potential to save countless human lives outweighs the ethical concerns of animal welfare.
On the other hand, opponents of animal experimentation emphasize the moral imperative to avoid causing suffering to sentient beings. They argue that animals, like humans, can experience pain and distress, and subjecting them to experiments violates their inherent right to live free from harm. Critics also point out that animal studies do not always translate accurately to human outcomes, potentially leading to misleading results and wasted resources. Furthermore, they advocate for the development and use of alternative research methods, such as advanced computer simulations and human cell cultures, which can often provide more relevant and ethical means of scientific inquiry.
In my opinion, while the ethical concerns surrounding animal research are valid and should be taken seriously, the potential benefits to human health and scientific understanding justify limited and strictly regulated animal experimentation. However, this should be accompanied by rigorous ethical oversight, efforts to minimize animal suffering, and continued investment in developing alternative research methods. As our scientific capabilities advance, we should strive to reduce our reliance on animal testing wherever possible, balancing the pursuit of knowledge and medical progress with our moral obligation to protect vulnerable creatures.
Ethical animal research in a modern laboratory
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The use of animals in scientific research is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it’s okay, while others disagree. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my own thoughts.
People who support animal research say it’s important for human health. Many medicines and treatments we have today were first tested on animals. They believe that without animal testing, we wouldn’t have cures for many diseases. Also, they say that animals are similar to humans in many ways, so testing on them can help us understand how things might work in people.
On the other hand, those against animal testing think it’s cruel and unfair to animals. They say that animals can feel pain and suffer, just like humans. They argue that we don’t have the right to use animals for our own benefit if it hurts them. Some people also point out that animal tests don’t always work the same way in humans, so the results might not be reliable.
In my opinion, I think animal research can be acceptable, but only if it’s done very carefully and with strict rules. We should always try to find other ways to do research that don’t involve animals if possible. When we do use animals, we should make sure they are treated well and don’t suffer unnecessarily. I believe that if animal research can help save human lives or cure serious diseases, it might be worth doing, but we should always be looking for better ways to do science without harming animals.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Animals in scientific research is a big topic that people argue about. Some say it’s good, others say it’s bad. I will talk about both sides and what I think.
People who like animal testing say it helps humans. They say we need to test on animals to make new medicines. Without animal tests, we might not have cures for some sicknesses. They think it’s okay to use animals if it helps people.
But other people don’t like animal testing. They think it’s mean to animals. Animals can feel pain too, so it’s not fair to hurt them. These people say we should find other ways to do research without using animals.
I think animal testing is sometimes okay, but not always. We should be very careful and only do it if it’s really important. We should also try to find better ways to do research without hurting animals. It’s a hard question, but we need to think about both animals and humans.
Explaining the Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Task Achievement: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position throughout.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logically organized with clear progression and appropriate use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary used with flexibility and precision.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy.
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Task Achievement: Addresses all parts of the task, though some aspects are more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally arranged coherently, with some use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: Adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some attempts at less common words.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Mix of simple and complex sentence forms with good control and few errors.
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Task Achievement: Addresses the task only partially, with limited development of ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Basic organization of information, but not always logical.
- Lexical Resource: Limited range of vocabulary, adequate for basic communication but lacks precision.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Limited range of structures with some attempt at complex sentences, but errors are frequent.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Ethical (adjective) /ˈeθɪkl/ – morally correct or acceptable
- Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- Proponent (noun) /prəˈpəʊnənt/ – a person who advocates for something
- Sentient (adjective) /ˈsenʃənt/ – able to perceive or feel things
- Rigorous (adjective) /ˈrɪɡərəs/ – extremely thorough and careful
- Irreplaceable (adjective) /ˌɪrɪˈpleɪsəbl/ – impossible to replace
- Counterargument (noun) /ˌkaʊntərˈɑːɡjumənt/ – an argument against another argument
- Breakthrough (noun) /ˈbreɪkθruː/ – an important discovery or development
Ethical research alternatives to animal testing
In conclusion, the ethics of animal research in scientific studies remains a complex and nuanced topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future exam questions might explore related themes such as:
- The role of technology in reducing the need for animal testing
- Balancing scientific progress with animal welfare concerns
- The economic implications of shifting away from animal-based research
To further improve your writing skills, try drafting your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your arguments and enhance your ability to express complex ideas clearly and effectively.
