Space exploration has been a topic of debate in IELTS Writing Task 2 for many years. Based on past exam trends and recent global events, it’s highly likely that questions related to space exploration and its economic impact will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:

Some people think that space exploration is a waste of money and that there are more urgent needs to be addressed on Earth. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analyzing the Question

This question asks for your opinion on the value of space exploration compared to addressing urgent needs on Earth. Key points to consider:

1. The two-sided nature of the argument: space exploration vs. Earth’s urgent needs
2. The financial aspect: is space exploration a “waste of money”?
3. The implied priorities: should we focus on Earth’s problems first?
4. The extent of agreement or disagreement required in your response

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8)

Space exploration has long been a subject of controversy, with critics arguing that it diverts funds from pressing terrestrial issues. While I acknowledge the importance of addressing Earth’s problems, I firmly believe that space exploration is a worthwhile investment that can yield significant benefits for humanity.

Firstly, space exploration drives technological innovation that often has practical applications on Earth. Many everyday technologies, such as GPS, weather forecasting, and satellite communications, are direct results of space research. These advancements have improved our quality of life and contributed to solving global challenges. For instance, satellite technology helps monitor climate change and natural disasters, enabling better response and prevention strategies.

Moreover, space exploration inspires scientific curiosity and education. The Apollo missions, for example, sparked a generation’s interest in science and technology, leading to increased enrollment in STEM fields. This intellectual capital is crucial for addressing complex global issues like renewable energy development and disease prevention. By investing in space exploration, we are indirectly investing in the problem-solvers of tomorrow.

Additionally, space exploration has the potential to address resource scarcity on Earth. Asteroid mining could provide rare metals essential for technology, while research on Mars could lead to breakthroughs in sustainable agriculture and water conservation. These discoveries could alleviate resource-related conflicts and environmental pressures on our planet.

Critics argue that funds should be redirected to immediate Earth-bound problems like poverty and healthcare. However, this view overlooks the fact that space exploration budgets are typically a fraction of national spending on these issues. Furthermore, the economic benefits of space technology often outweigh the initial investment. NASA, for instance, estimates that for every dollar spent on space exploration, the economy receives $7-14 in returns through job creation and technological spin-offs.

In conclusion, while Earth’s problems deserve attention and resources, space exploration should not be viewed as a competing priority but as a complementary endeavor. Its potential to drive innovation, inspire education, and provide solutions to global challenges makes it a worthy investment for our future. The benefits of space exploration extend far beyond the cosmos, ultimately contributing to the betterment of life on Earth.

Infographic showing benefits of space exploration

Explanation of Band 8 Score

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 8 response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with well-developed arguments.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with some less common words and idiomatic expressions.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A variety of complex structures are used accurately, with only minor errors that do not impede communication.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The question of whether space exploration is worth the money spent on it is a complex issue. While some people argue that it’s a waste of resources, I believe that space exploration has both advantages and disadvantages that need to be considered.

On one hand, space exploration has led to many important discoveries and technological advancements. Satellites help us with communication, weather forecasting, and navigation. These technologies have improved our daily lives in many ways. Also, studying space helps us understand our planet better and may even help us find solutions to problems like climate change.

However, it’s true that space exploration is very expensive. Some people argue that this money could be better spent on solving immediate problems on Earth, such as poverty, hunger, and disease. These are serious issues that affect millions of people, and they deserve attention and resources.

Another benefit of space exploration is that it inspires people, especially young people, to become interested in science and technology. This can lead to more people studying these subjects and developing new ideas and inventions that could help solve Earth’s problems in the future.

On the other hand, there are risks associated with space exploration. Accidents can happen, and the environmental impact of launching rockets and satellites is a concern. We need to consider these factors when deciding how much to invest in space programs.

In conclusion, while space exploration has its drawbacks, I believe its benefits outweigh the costs. It’s important to balance our investment in space with addressing urgent needs on Earth. By doing so, we can continue to advance our knowledge and technology while also working to solve immediate problems facing humanity.

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses the task, presenting a clear position with some developed ideas, though not as fully as the Band 8 essay.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are generally well-organized, but the linking between ideas could be more sophisticated.
3. Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used, though it lacks the precision and sophistication of the Band 8 essay.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with some errors that do not impede communication.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Space exploration (noun) – /speɪs ˌekspləˈreɪʃən/ – The investigation of physical conditions in space and on stars, planets, and other celestial bodies through the use of artificial satellites, space probes, and human spaceflight.

2. Technological innovation (noun phrase) – /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The process of developing and introducing new methods, ideas, or products that are based on technology.

3. Resource scarcity (noun phrase) – /rɪˈsɔːs ˈskeəsɪti/ – The lack of sufficient availability of resources, often leading to economic and social challenges.

4. Asteroid mining (noun phrase) – /ˈæstərɔɪd ˈmaɪnɪŋ/ – The exploitation of raw materials from asteroids and other minor planets.

5. Terrestrial issues (noun phrase) – /təˈrestriəl ˈɪʃuːz/ – Problems or matters concerning Earth or its inhabitants, as opposed to those in space.

6. Complementary endeavor (noun phrase) – /ˌkɒmplɪˈmentəri ɪnˈdevə/ – An activity that enhances or completes another activity, rather than competing with it.

7. Economic returns (noun phrase) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk rɪˈtɜːnz/ – The financial benefits or profits gained from an investment or business activity.

8. STEM fields (noun phrase) – /stem fiːldz/ – Academic disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Illustration of space exploration debate

In conclusion, the debate over the value of space exploration versus addressing urgent Earth needs remains a relevant and complex topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar prompts, such as:

1. Some argue that international cooperation in space exploration is more beneficial than competition. Do you agree or disagree?
2. To what extent do you think governments should prioritize space exploration over other scientific research?
3. Discuss the potential long-term benefits and risks of human colonization of other planets.

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!