The topic of space exploration’s role in addressing Earth’s environmental problems has gained increasing relevance in recent IELTS exams. This theme intersects science, technology, and environmental issues, making it a prime candidate for future tests. Let’s examine a related question that has appeared in past exams and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that space exploration is a waste of resources while others believe that it is essential for the survival of humanity. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments against space exploration (waste of resources)
- Discuss arguments for space exploration (essential for human survival)
- Present their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your personal view.
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Space exploration has been a topic of heated debate, with some viewing it as a frivolous expenditure and others considering it vital for human survival. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own stance on the issue.
Those who oppose space exploration often argue that it diverts crucial resources from pressing terrestrial problems. They contend that the billions of dollars spent on space missions could be better allocated to address immediate concerns such as poverty, hunger, and climate change. Moreover, critics point out that space exploration has yet to yield tangible benefits for the average person, making it seem like an indulgence of scientific curiosity rather than a practical endeavor.
Space Exploration Cost
On the other hand, proponents of space exploration assert that it is essential for the long-term survival of humanity. They argue that Earth’s resources are finite and that space offers potential solutions to resource scarcity, overpopulation, and environmental degradation. Space-based solar power, for instance, could provide clean, unlimited energy to our planet. Additionally, the technological advancements stemming from space research often find applications in everyday life, from satellite communications to medical imaging techniques.
In my opinion, while the concerns about resource allocation are valid, the potential benefits of space exploration far outweigh its costs. The innovative technologies and scientific discoveries resulting from space missions have already contributed significantly to addressing environmental issues on Earth. For example, satellite monitoring has been crucial in tracking deforestation, climate change patterns, and natural disasters, enabling more effective responses. Furthermore, the inspirational aspect of space exploration should not be underestimated, as it drives scientific education and technological progress.
space-technology-benefits|Space Technology Benefits|A collage showcasing various applications of space technology in everyday life. The collage includes images of:
– A smartphone with a GPS navigation app open
– Weather forecast on a screen
– A farmer using precision agriculture technology in their field
– Telemedicine consultation taking place between a doctor and a patient in a remote area.
The visual demonstrates how space technology benefits society in various sectors.
In conclusion, although space exploration requires substantial investment, its potential to secure humanity’s future and address global challenges makes it a worthwhile pursuit. Balancing these efforts with immediate earthly concerns is crucial, but we must not lose sight of the long-term benefits that space exploration can offer to our planet and species.
(Word count: 309)
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Space exploration is a controversial topic. Some people think it’s a waste of money, while others believe it’s very important for humans. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who are against space exploration say it costs too much money. They think we should use this money to solve problems on Earth like poverty and pollution. For example, the money spent on sending rockets to Mars could be used to build houses for poor people or clean up the oceans. They also say that space exploration doesn’t help normal people in their daily lives.
On the other hand, people who support space exploration say it’s necessary for human survival. They believe that Earth might run out of resources one day, so we need to find new places to live. Space exploration can also help us find new sources of energy and materials. Some technologies from space research, like satellite communications, are already helping people on Earth.
Future Humanity in Space
In my opinion, I think space exploration is important, but we need to balance it with solving Earth’s problems. Space research can give us new ways to protect the environment and find solutions to global warming. It also inspires young people to study science and technology. However, we should not forget about the immediate problems on Earth.
To conclude, while space exploration is expensive, it can bring many benefits to humanity. We should continue to explore space, but also make sure we are taking care of our planet at the same time.
(Word count: 253)
Band 5-6 Sample Essay
Space exploration is a big topic today. Some people think it’s not good to spend money on it, but others say it’s very important. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
People who don’t like space exploration say it’s too expensive. They think the money should be used for problems on Earth. For example, there are many poor people and pollution problems. The money for space could help these issues instead.
But other people think space exploration is very important. They say it can help humans survive in the future. We might find new places to live or new resources in space. Also, some things we use every day, like phones, use technology from space research.
I think space exploration is good, but we need to think about Earth too. Space research can help us learn about climate change and find new ways to protect nature. It’s also exciting for young people and makes them want to study science. But we shouldn’t forget about problems on Earth.
In conclusion, I believe space exploration is important, but we need to balance it with taking care of our planet. We should keep exploring space, but also work on Earth’s problems at the same time.
(Word count: 189)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary with natural and sophisticated use (e.g., “frivolous expenditure,” “tangible benefits”)
- Shows flexibility in sentence structures and excellent use of cohesive devices
- Presents a clear progression of ideas with fully extended and well-supported arguments
- Addresses all parts of the task with a clear position throughout
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision
- Has a mix of simple and complex sentence structures
- Presents relevant ideas but with less fully developed support
- Addresses all parts of the task but with less clarity in position
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Uses basic vocabulary with some attempt at less common words
- Relies more on simple sentence structures with limited complexity
- Presents some relevant ideas but with inadequate development
- Addresses the task in a general way but may lack focus or clear position
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Space exploration (noun) – /speɪs ˌekspləˈreɪʃən/ – The investigation of outer space using spacecraft
- Frivolous (adjective) – /ˈfrɪvələs/ – Not having any serious purpose or value
- Tangible (adjective) – /ˈtændʒəbl/ – Clear and definite; real
- Scarcity (noun) – /ˈskeəsəti/ – A situation in which something is not easy to find or get
- Finite (adjective) – /ˈfaɪnaɪt/ – Having a limit or end
- Overpopulation (noun) – /ˌəʊvəˌpɒpjʊˈleɪʃn/ – The condition of having a population so dense as to cause environmental deterioration
- Deforestation (noun) – /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃn/ – The action of clearing a wide area of trees
- Allocation (noun) – /ˌæləˈkeɪʃn/ – The action or process of distributing something for a particular purpose
In conclusion, the topic of space exploration and its impact on Earth’s environmental problems is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The balance between space exploration and solving immediate Earth problems
- The potential of space technology in addressing climate change
- The ethical considerations of colonizing other planets
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and always address all parts of the question. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.