Genetic modification in humans is a controversial topic that has appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 several times over the past few years. Based on analysis of past exam papers and current trends, this subject is likely to continue featuring in future tests due to its relevance to advancing medical technologies and ethical debates. Let’s examine a recent IELTS question on this topic and explore sample essays across different band scores.
Some people think that genetic modification of humans should be allowed to cure diseases while others believe it is wrong. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for allowing genetic modification to cure diseases
- Discuss arguments against genetic modification in humans
- Provide their personal opinion on the issue
It’s important to address all parts of the question and present a balanced discussion before stating your stance.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Genetic engineering of human beings is a contentious issue that has sparked intense debate in scientific and ethical circles. While some advocate for its use in treating diseases, others argue it crosses moral boundaries. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering my view.
Proponents of genetic modification in humans highlight its potential to eradicate devastating hereditary conditions. By altering faulty genes, scientists could potentially eliminate diseases like cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease, dramatically improving quality of life for millions. Furthermore, genetic therapies could boost immunity against viruses or enhance longevity, leading to healthier populations overall. From this standpoint, embracing genetic modification is a moral imperative to reduce human suffering.
On the other hand, critics argue that tampering with human DNA is ethically fraught and could have unforeseen consequences. There are concerns that genetic enhancement could exacerbate social inequalities if only the wealthy can access such technologies. Moreover, altering the human genome may have unintended effects on future generations that we cannot predict. Some also contend that genetic modification infringes on human dignity and the right of individuals to be born with their natural genetic makeup.
In my opinion, while genetic modification holds immense promise for treating diseases, it should be approached with extreme caution and robust ethical oversight. I believe its use should be limited to curing serious medical conditions rather than enhancement purposes. Strict regulations must be implemented to prevent misuse and ensure equal access. As our understanding of genetics advances, we must carefully weigh the benefits against potential risks to society and human identity.
(Word count: 273)
Genetic modification in humans debate
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay would likely score in the Band 8-9 range for the following reasons:
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and offering a clear personal opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphs are well-linked using cohesive devices.
Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “contentious issue”, “hereditary conditions”, “ethically fraught”).
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a variety of complex structures used accurately (e.g., “While some advocate for…”, “By altering faulty genes…”).
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Genetic modification in humans is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it should be allowed to help cure diseases, while others believe it is wrong. This essay will discuss both sides of this argument.
People who support genetic modification say it can help cure serious diseases. For example, if scientists can change the genes that cause cancer or heart disease, they could save many lives. This would reduce suffering and help people live longer, healthier lives. Also, genetic modification could help prevent babies from being born with genetic disorders.
However, other people think genetic modification is not right. They worry that it might have bad effects that we don’t know about yet. For instance, changing one gene might accidentally cause problems with other genes. There are also concerns that only rich people would be able to afford genetic modification, which could create unfairness in society. Some people also believe that changing human genes is like playing God and goes against nature.
In my opinion, I think genetic modification should be allowed but only for treating serious diseases. It should not be used for things like changing how people look or making “designer babies”. There should be strict rules about how it can be used to make sure it is safe and fair for everyone.
(Word count: 228)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay would likely score in the Band 6-7 range for the following reasons:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses the main parts of the question, but the ideas could be more fully developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some cohesive devices are overused or under-used.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but lacks the sophistication of higher band scores.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: There is a mix of simple and complex sentences, with generally good control, though some errors are present.
How technology is reshaping the education sector has similar ethical implications to genetic modification in humans, as both involve balancing potential benefits with ethical concerns.
Sample Essay for Band 5-6
Genetic modification for humans is a big topic these days. Some people think it’s good and some think it’s bad. I will talk about both sides in this essay.
First, the good things about genetic modification. It can help stop diseases. If doctors can change bad genes, they can stop people from getting sick. This is very good because it can save lives. Many people suffer from genetic diseases, so this could help them a lot.
But there are also bad things about genetic modification. Some people think it’s not natural and we shouldn’t change how humans are made. They worry that it might cause problems we don’t know about yet. Also, it might be very expensive so only rich people can use it. This is not fair for everyone else.
I think genetic modification can be good if we use it carefully. It should only be for stopping serious diseases. We need to make sure it’s safe before we use it on people. Also, it should be available for everyone, not just rich people.
In conclusion, genetic modification has good and bad points. We need to think carefully about how to use it in the future.
(Word count: 190)
Explanation of Band 5-6 Score
This essay would likely score in the Band 5-6 range for the following reasons:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses the main points of the question, but ideas are underdeveloped and repetitive.
Coherence and Cohesion: There is a basic structure, but paragraphing is not always logical and cohesive devices are limited.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited and repetitive, with some errors in word choice and spelling.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentences are mostly simple with limited complexity. There are frequent grammatical errors, though meaning is generally clear.
Genetic research laboratory
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Genetic modification (noun) – /dʒəˈnetɪk ˌmɒdɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ – The process of altering the DNA of an organism
- Hereditary (adjective) – /hɪˈredɪtəri/ – Passed down from parents to children through genes
- Ethical (adjective) – /ˈeθɪkəl/ – Relating to moral principles or values
- Genome (noun) – /ˈdʒiːnəʊm/ – The complete set of genetic information in an organism
- Longevity (noun) – /lɒnˈdʒevəti/ – Long life or existence
- Exacerbate (verb) – /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – To make a problem or situation worse
- Contentious (adjective) – /kənˈtenʃəs/ – Causing or likely to cause disagreement or argument
- Oversight (noun) – /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – The action of overseeing something, supervision
- Eradicate (verb) – /ɪˈrædɪkeɪt/ – To completely get rid of something
- Ramifications (noun) – /ˌræmɪfɪˈkeɪʃənz/ – The consequences of an action or decision
The role of technology in improving education access shares similarities with the debate on genetic modification, as both involve weighing technological advancements against potential societal impacts.
Conclusion
The topic of genetic modification in humans is likely to remain relevant for future IELTS exams due to ongoing scientific advancements and ethical debates. To prepare for this topic, practice writing essays that discuss both the potential benefits (such as curing diseases) and the risks (like unforeseen consequences or social inequalities). Remember to always provide a balanced argument and clearly state your own opinion.
Some related topics you might encounter in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions include:
- The ethics of designer babies
- Regulations for genetic research
- The impact of genetic modification on society and human evolution
- Balancing scientific progress with ethical considerations in medicine
To improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you develop your ideas and refine your writing technique for the IELTS exam.