The topic of animal testing for cosmetic purposes has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past exam trends and current global discussions, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that animal testing for cosmetic products should be banned, while others argue that it is necessary for product safety. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for banning animal testing in cosmetics
- Discuss arguments for continuing animal testing in cosmetics
- Provide their own opinion on the issue
Let’s explore three sample essays addressing this topic, each targeting a different band score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Animal testing for cosmetic products has long been a contentious issue, with valid arguments on both sides. While some advocate for its ban due to ethical concerns, others argue for its necessity in ensuring product safety. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Those in favor of banning animal testing for cosmetics primarily cite ethical reasons. They argue that subjecting animals to potentially painful or distressing experiments for the sake of human vanity is morally unjustifiable. Furthermore, advances in technology have led to the development of alternative testing methods, such as in vitro techniques and computer modeling, which can provide reliable safety data without harming animals. Proponents of the ban also point out that many countries, including the European Union, have successfully implemented such prohibitions without compromising consumer safety.
On the other hand, supporters of animal testing in cosmetics emphasize the paramount importance of human safety. They contend that while alternative methods exist, they may not always be as comprehensive or reliable as tests conducted on living organisms. Animal testing allows scientists to observe the full range of potential side effects, including long-term consequences that may not be apparent in laboratory simulations. Additionally, they argue that certain complex biological interactions can only be accurately studied in whole animal systems, making these tests crucial for developing truly safe products.
In my opinion, while I acknowledge the importance of consumer safety, I believe that animal testing for cosmetics should be phased out in favor of more ethical alternatives. The cosmetic industry has made significant strides in developing cruelty-free testing methods, and many companies have successfully created safe products without resorting to animal experimentation. Moreover, the ethical cost of inflicting suffering on sentient beings for non-essential products seems disproportionate to the potential benefits.
Instead of continuing animal testing, I propose increased investment in refining and validating alternative testing methods. This approach would not only address ethical concerns but also drive innovation in the cosmetics industry. Additionally, stricter regulations on ingredient safety and more rigorous pre-market testing using non-animal methods could help ensure consumer protection without relying on animal experiments.
In conclusion, while both sides of the argument have merit, the ethical implications and technological advancements in alternative testing methods tip the balance in favor of banning animal testing for cosmetics. By focusing on developing and improving cruelty-free testing techniques, we can create a more ethical and innovative cosmetics industry without compromising on safety.
(Word count: 398)
Ethical debate on animal testing for cosmetics
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with sophisticated phrases such as “contentious issue,” “ethical implications,” and “disproportionate to the potential benefits.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures with a high degree of accuracy.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the topic.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Animal testing for cosmetics is a topic that many people have strong opinions about. Some think it should be stopped, while others believe it’s necessary. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who want to ban animal testing for cosmetics usually think it’s cruel to animals. They say that animals suffer in experiments and that it’s not right to hurt them just for beauty products. These people also point out that there are other ways to test cosmetics now, like using computers or test tubes. They believe these methods can be just as good as animal testing and don’t cause any harm to animals.
On the other hand, some people argue that animal testing is important for making sure cosmetics are safe for humans to use. They worry that without testing on animals, some products might cause allergic reactions or other health problems for people. These supporters say that animal testing helps scientists understand how products affect living things over a long time, which is hard to do with other methods.
In my opinion, I think animal testing for cosmetics should be stopped. While I understand the need for safe products, I believe that hurting animals for makeup and skincare items is not necessary. Many companies have shown that they can make safe products without testing on animals, so I think all companies should try to do this. Also, as technology gets better, there will probably be even more ways to test products without using animals in the future.
To conclude, although both sides have their reasons, I believe that we should focus on finding and improving alternatives to animal testing in the cosmetics industry. This way, we can have safe products and also protect animals from unnecessary suffering.
(Word count: 295)
Cruelty-free testing in cosmetic laboratory
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with each paragraph focusing on a specific aspect of the question. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is generally appropriate, but lacks the sophistication and range seen in higher band scores.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though there is less variety compared to Band 8-9 essays.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but the level of detail and explanation is not as extensive as in higher band essays.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, many people talk about animal testing for cosmetics. Some people say it’s bad and should stop. Other people think it’s important for safety. I will write about both ideas and give my opinion.
First, people who don’t like animal testing say it’s cruel. Animals get hurt in tests and this is not fair. They also say we have new ways to test cosmetics without animals. These new ways use computers and don’t hurt anyone.
But some people think animal testing is necessary. They say it helps make sure cosmetics are safe for humans to use. If we don’t test on animals, people might get sick from using cosmetics. These people believe animal tests show how products affect living things over time.
I think animal testing for cosmetics should stop. It’s not good to hurt animals just for beauty products. Many companies make safe cosmetics without animal tests, so I think all companies can do this. Also, new technology can help find better ways to test cosmetics.
In conclusion, even though some people think animal testing is needed, I believe we should find other ways to test cosmetics that don’t hurt animals. This way, we can have safe products and also be kind to animals.
(Word count: 198)
Explanation of Band 5-6 Score
This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 5-6 range:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses the main parts of the task but with limited development of ideas.
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Coherence and Cohesion: There is a basic structure, but paragraphing and use of cohesive devices are limited.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is simple and repetitive, with some attempts at more complex words but limited range.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentences are mostly simple with some attempts at complex structures. There are some grammatical errors, but they do not greatly impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are present but lack detail and thorough explanation. The argument is simplistic compared to higher band essays.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Contentious (adjective) – /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- Ethical (adjective) – /ˈeθɪkl/ – relating to moral principles
- In vitro (adjective) – /ˌɪn ˈviːtrəʊ/ – performed or taking place in a test tube or culture dish
- Paramount (adjective) – /ˈpærəmaʊnt/ – more important than anything else
- Phase out (phrasal verb) – /feɪz aʊt/ – to gradually stop using or providing something
- Cruelty-free (adjective) – /ˈkruːəlti friː/ – not tested on animals
- Alternative (noun) – /ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv/ – one of two or more available possibilities
- Rigorous (adjective) – /ˈrɪɡərəs/ – extremely thorough and careful
- Implement (verb) – /ˈɪmplɪment/ – put (a decision, plan, agreement, etc.) into effect
- Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – the action or process of innovating
In conclusion, the topic of animal testing for cosmetics is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on this topic, focusing on developing balanced arguments, using appropriate vocabulary, and structuring your essay coherently. Remember to analyze the question carefully and address all parts of the task in your response.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The ethics of animal testing in medical research
- The role of government in regulating cosmetic product safety
- The impact of consumer choices on the cosmetics industry’s practices
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
