Genetically modified (GM) crops have become a hot topic in recent years, and it’s no surprise that this subject has found its way into IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. The regulation of GM crops is a complex and controversial issue that tests candidates’ ability to analyze, argue, and present balanced viewpoints. In this article, we’ll explore sample essays on this topic, providing valuable insights for different band scores.
Analyzing the Topic: Regulating Genetically Modified Crops
Before we dive into the sample essays, let’s examine the prevalence of this topic in IELTS exams. Based on recent trends, questions related to GM crops and their regulation have appeared with increasing frequency. This trend is likely to continue, given the ongoing debates surrounding food security, environmental impact, and ethical concerns in biotechnology.
IELTS Writing Task 2 GM Crops
One of the most common question types on this subject is as follows:
Some people think that the government should strictly control the development and use of genetically modified crops (GM crops). Others believe that this technology should be developed freely. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for strict government control of GM crops
- Explore viewpoints supporting free development of GM technology
- Present their own opinion on the matter
Key aspects to consider:
- Potential benefits and risks of GM crops
- The role of government in regulating new technologies
- Balancing innovation with safety concerns
- Environmental and health implications
- Economic factors and food security issues
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response
The regulation of genetically modified (GM) crops has become a contentious issue, with valid arguments on both sides. While some advocate for stringent government control, others champion unrestricted development. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own stance on the matter.
Proponents of strict regulation argue that GM crops pose potential risks to human health and the environment, necessitating careful oversight. They contend that without proper controls, unforeseen consequences could arise, such as the creation of “superweeds” resistant to herbicides or the inadvertent harm to beneficial insects. Moreover, strict regulation can help ensure that GM crops undergo rigorous testing before entering the food supply, thus safeguarding public health. For instance, the European Union’s precautionary approach to GM crops has been praised by many for prioritizing safety over rapid technological advancement.
On the other hand, those favoring free development of GM technology argue that excessive regulation stifles innovation and hampers efforts to address global food security challenges. They maintain that GM crops have the potential to increase yields, enhance nutritional content, and improve resistance to pests and diseases. Supporters of this view often cite the success of Golden Rice, a GM crop enriched with vitamin A that could potentially save millions from malnutrition-related blindness. Furthermore, they argue that overregulation may disadvantage developing countries that could benefit most from agricultural biotechnology.
In my opinion, a balanced approach is crucial. While I recognize the immense potential of GM crops to address pressing global issues, I believe that some level of government oversight is necessary to ensure public safety and environmental protection. However, this regulation should be based on scientific evidence and should not be so restrictive as to impede valuable research and development. A framework that allows for responsible innovation while maintaining robust safety standards would be ideal.
In conclusion, the regulation of GM crops requires a nuanced approach that balances the need for innovation with the imperative of safety. By fostering collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and the public, we can harness the benefits of GM technology while mitigating potential risks.
(Word count: 329)
Essay Analysis: Band 8-9
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, and ideas are logically linked.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. For example, “contentious issue,” “stringent government control,” “unforeseen consequences,” “precautionary approach.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately. Complex sentences are used effectively, such as “Proponents of strict regulation argue that GM crops pose potential risks to human health and the environment, necessitating careful oversight.”
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Critical Thinking: The essay shows depth of critical thinking, presenting nuanced arguments and considering multiple facets of the issue.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response
The topic of genetically modified (GM) crops is very debated today. Some people think the government should control them strictly, while others believe they should be developed freely. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who want strict control say GM crops might be dangerous. They worry about health problems and damage to the environment. For example, some people think GM food might cause allergies or other health issues. Also, GM crops could harm other plants or animals in nature. They say the government needs to check these crops carefully before allowing them.
On the other hand, people who support free development of GM crops say they can help solve big problems. GM crops can grow more food and be stronger against pests and diseases. This could help feed more people, especially in poor countries. They also say that too many rules will slow down important research. For instance, scientists might find ways to make crops that need less water, which would be very useful in dry areas.
In my opinion, I think we need some control, but not too much. It’s important to make sure GM crops are safe, but we shouldn’t stop scientists from doing important work. I believe the government should have clear rules based on science. They should test GM crops properly, but also allow good ideas to be developed.
To conclude, GM crops are a complex issue. While there are risks to consider, there are also potential benefits. I think a balanced approach with some government control, but also room for research and development, is the best way forward.
(Word count: 269)
Essay Analysis: Band 6-7
This essay demonstrates good competence in several areas but falls short of excellence:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and presenting a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes repetitive (e.g., frequent use of “also” and “for example”).
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Lexical Resource: There is a good range of vocabulary, but it lacks the sophistication of a higher band score. Some attempts at less common vocabulary are made (e.g., “debated,” “allergies”), but the language is generally more straightforward.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. However, there is less variety in sentence structures compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Critical Thinking: The essay presents relevant ideas but lacks the depth and nuance of the higher band score essay. The arguments are more straightforward and could benefit from more specific examples or deeper analysis.
Key Vocabulary for GM Crops Essays
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Genetically modified (GM) (adjective) /dʒəˈnetɪkəli ˈmɒdɪfaɪd/: Altered through genetic engineering techniques.
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Regulation (noun) /ˌreɡjʊˈleɪʃən/: Rules or directives made and maintained by an authority.
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Biotechnology (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊtekˈnɒlədʒi/: The use of living systems and organisms to develop or make products.
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Food security (noun) /fuːd sɪˈkjʊərəti/: The state of having reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food.
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Herbicide-resistant (adjective) /ˈhɜːbɪsaɪd rɪˈzɪstənt/: Able to withstand the effects of herbicides.
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Precautionary approach (noun) /prɪˈkɔːʃənəri əˈprəʊtʃ/: A strategy for addressing potential risks when full scientific knowledge is lacking.
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/: The introduction of new ideas, methods, or products.
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Sustainable agriculture (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbəl ˈæɡrɪkʌltʃə/: Farming practices that ensure long-term productivity without harming the environment.
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Crop yield (noun) /krɒp jiːld/: The amount of crop produced per unit of land area.
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
Conclusion and Practice Suggestions
The regulation of genetically modified crops is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, consider practicing with these potential questions:
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Some argue that GM crops are essential for future food security, while others believe they pose unacceptable risks. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
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To what extent should governments be involved in regulating new agricultural technologies like GM crops?
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The development of GM crops has both benefits and drawbacks. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this technology.
We encourage you to practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Remember to apply the strategies and vocabulary discussed in this article to enhance your essays.
For more information on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- The Importance of Regulating Genetically Modified Organisms
- Ethical Concerns in Genetic Engineering
- How Biotechnology is Transforming Food Production
Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
