Space exploration has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends, questions about international cooperation in space exploration are likely to appear more frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams and analyze how to craft high-scoring responses.
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 requires you to express your opinion on the value of space exploration compared to addressing urgent needs on Earth. Key points to consider:
- The controversy: Space exploration vs. earthly needs
- Your stance: Agree, disagree, or partially agree
- Supporting arguments: Benefits of space exploration and/or importance of Earth’s issues
- Potential counterarguments: Addressing the opposing viewpoint
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Space exploration has long been a subject of debate, with critics arguing that it diverts resources from pressing terrestrial issues. While I acknowledge the importance of addressing urgent needs on Earth, I firmly disagree that space exploration is a waste of money. In fact, I believe that investing in space research can yield significant benefits for humanity both in space and on our home planet.
Firstly, space exploration drives technological innovation that has wide-ranging applications on Earth. Many technologies developed for space missions have found practical uses in everyday life, from satellite communications and GPS to medical imaging and water purification systems. These advancements not only improve our quality of life but also contribute to solving some of the very problems critics argue should take priority. For instance, satellite technology plays a crucial role in monitoring climate change, predicting natural disasters, and managing agricultural resources – all of which are vital for addressing urgent global challenges.
Satellite Technology for Earth Applications
Moreover, space exploration fosters international cooperation and unity. Projects like the International Space Station demonstrate how nations can work together towards a common goal, transcending political differences. This collaborative spirit can serve as a model for addressing other global issues, promoting peace and shared progress. The knowledge gained from space missions also expands our understanding of the universe and our place in it, potentially uncovering solutions to existential threats facing humanity, such as asteroid impacts or the need for alternative habitats.
Critics may argue that the immense costs of space programs could be better spent on immediate earthly concerns like poverty, healthcare, and education. However, this view oversimplifies the complex nature of global economics and scientific progress. Space exploration accounts for a tiny fraction of most countries’ budgets, and the return on investment in terms of technological advancements and economic benefits far outweighs the initial costs. Furthermore, inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers through space programs can lead to breakthroughs in various fields, indirectly contributing to solutions for Earth’s problems.
International Space Station: A Symbol of Global Collaboration
In conclusion, while addressing urgent needs on Earth is undoubtedly important, it should not come at the expense of space exploration. The two are not mutually exclusive; in fact, they are often complementary. By continuing to invest in space research, we can drive innovation, foster global cooperation, and potentially discover solutions to some of our most pressing terrestrial challenges. The benefits of space exploration extend far beyond the cosmos, making it a worthwhile investment for our future on Earth and beyond.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether space exploration is a waste of money is a controversial topic. While some people believe that we should focus on solving problems on Earth, I partially agree that space exploration is important but we should also address urgent needs on our planet.
On one hand, space exploration has many benefits. It helps us learn about the universe and can lead to new discoveries. Many technologies we use today, like GPS and weather forecasting, come from space research. These inventions improve our daily lives and can even help solve some Earth problems. For example, satellites help us track climate change and natural disasters, which are big issues we face today.
However, it’s true that there are many urgent problems on Earth that need attention. Poverty, hunger, and lack of education are serious issues in many countries. These problems affect millions of people and need immediate solutions. It’s understandable why some people think we should spend money on these issues instead of space exploration.
I believe we can find a balance between space exploration and addressing Earth’s needs. We don’t have to choose one or the other. Governments can allocate funds to both areas. Space programs often take up a small part of a country’s budget, so there is still money left for other important issues. Also, the knowledge and technology from space exploration can sometimes help solve Earth problems.
In conclusion, while I agree that urgent needs on Earth are important, I don’t think space exploration is a waste of money. Both are valuable and can benefit humanity in different ways. We should continue to explore space while also working to solve problems on our planet. By doing both, we can make progress in science and improve life on Earth at the same time.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with well-developed ideas and relevant examples.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with flexibility and precision. Less common lexical items are used with full awareness of style and collocation.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used accurately and appropriately, with only rare minor errors.
Band 6-7 Essay
This essay shows a good attempt at addressing the task, but with some limitations:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task, presenting a relevant position, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs are better linked than others. Cohesive devices are used, but not always effectively.
- Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task, but with less precision and flexibility than the higher band essay.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with generally good control, but with some errors.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Space exploration (noun) – /speɪs ˌekspləˈreɪʃən/ – The investigation of outer space using spacecraft, satellites, and other technologies.
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Terrestrial (adjective) – /təˈrestriəl/ – Relating to Earth or its inhabitants.
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Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The action or process of innovating; introducing new ideas, methods, or products.
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Transcend (verb) – /trænˈsend/ – To go beyond the limits of something; to exceed or surpass.
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Existential (adjective) – /ˌegzɪˈstenʃəl/ – Relating to existence, especially human existence.
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Oversimplify (verb) – /ˌəʊvəˈsɪmplɪfaɪ/ – To simplify something so much that a distorted impression of it is given.
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Complementary (adjective) – /ˌkɒmplɪˈmentəri/ – Combining in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other.
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Allocation (noun) – /ˌæləˈkeɪʃən/ – The action or process of distributing resources or funds for a particular purpose.
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Controversial (adjective) – /ˌkɒntrəˈvɜːʃəl/ – Giving rise or likely to give rise to controversy or public disagreement.
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Breakthrough (noun) – /ˈbreɪkθruː/ – A sudden, dramatic, and important discovery or development.
In conclusion, the topic of space exploration versus addressing urgent Earth needs is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of international cooperation in space exploration
- The impact of space technology on daily life
- Balancing scientific research with social welfare spending
- The ethical implications of space colonization
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 practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
