Renewable energy research is a hot topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing frequently in recent years. This trend is likely to continue given the growing global focus on sustainable development and climate change mitigation. Let’s examine a common question format on this subject and analyze sample essays across different band scores.
Some people think that governments should spend money on developing or buying computer technology, while others believe that this money should be spent on more basic needs. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question presents two contrasting views on government spending priorities: investing in computer technology versus addressing basic needs. The task requires discussing both perspectives and providing a personal opinion. Key points to consider:
- Arguments for investing in computer technology
- Arguments for focusing on basic needs
- Balanced discussion of both views
- Clear personal stance with supporting reasons
Let’s examine three sample essays of varying quality to understand how to approach this topic effectively.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Governments worldwide face the challenge of allocating limited resources effectively. While some argue for increased investment in computer technology, others prioritize basic necessities. This essay will explore both viewpoints before presenting my opinion on the matter.
Proponents of technological investment argue that it drives economic growth and enhances national competitiveness. Advanced computer systems can revolutionize industries, improve productivity, and create high-paying jobs. Moreover, technological prowess often translates into geopolitical influence, as seen with countries leading in artificial intelligence and quantum computing. Investing in these areas could position a nation at the forefront of the digital revolution, potentially solving complex societal issues through innovative solutions.
On the other hand, advocates for addressing basic needs contend that a government’s primary responsibility is to ensure its citizens’ fundamental well-being. This includes providing adequate healthcare, education, housing, and nutrition – essentials that millions still lack globally. They argue that without a strong foundation of basic services, technological advancements benefit only a privileged few, exacerbating social inequality. Furthermore, investing in basic needs often yields immediate, tangible results in improving quality of life and social stability.
In my opinion, while both arguments have merit, a balanced approach is crucial. Governments should prioritize meeting basic needs as a fundamental responsibility. However, they should not neglect technological investment, as it can be a powerful tool for addressing these very needs more efficiently. For instance, telemedicine can expand healthcare access in remote areas, while educational technology can democratize learning opportunities. Therefore, I believe the ideal strategy is to ensure a strong foundation of basic services while strategically investing in technology that can amplify and optimize these efforts.
In conclusion, the debate between funding computer technology and basic needs is not a zero-sum game. Governments should strive for a nuanced approach that leverages technological advancements to more effectively meet citizens’ basic needs, thus creating a synergy between innovation and social welfare.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellent coherence, vocabulary, and argument development, warranting a Band 8-9 score. Key strengths include:
- Clear structure with a balanced discussion of both views
- Sophisticated vocabulary (e.g., “geopolitical influence,” “exacerbating social inequality”)
- Complex sentence structures without errors
- Logical progression of ideas with clear transitions
- A nuanced conclusion that synthesizes both perspectives
The essay effectively addresses all parts of the question, providing a comprehensive and well-reasoned response.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, there is a debate about whether governments should invest money in computer technology or focus on basic needs. This essay will discuss both sides of this argument and give my opinion.
On one hand, investing in computer technology can bring many benefits. It can help countries become more modern and competitive in the global economy. For example, if a country develops good computer systems, it can attract foreign companies and create more jobs. Also, technology can improve education and healthcare by providing better tools and information.
On the other hand, many people believe that governments should prioritize basic needs. This means making sure everyone has enough food, clean water, and a place to live. They argue that these things are more important than advanced technology because they directly affect people’s health and well-being. In many developing countries, there are still people who don’t have access to these basic necessities, so it’s important to address these issues first.
In my opinion, I think governments should try to balance both of these priorities. While it’s crucial to meet people’s basic needs, we shouldn’t ignore the importance of technology in today’s world. I believe that governments can use technology to help solve basic problems more efficiently. For example, they can use computer systems to manage food distribution or improve water treatment processes.
To conclude, both investing in technology and meeting basic needs are important for a country’s development. The best approach is to find ways to use technology to address basic needs more effectively, rather than treating them as separate issues.
(Word count: 267)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates a good understanding of the topic and addresses all parts of the question, placing it in the Band 6-7 range. Strengths and areas for improvement include:
Strengths:
- Clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs for each view, and conclusion
- Relevant examples to support arguments
- Clear personal opinion
- Generally good use of vocabulary and grammar
Areas for improvement:
- Could use more sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Arguments could be developed more thoroughly with additional details
- Transitions between ideas could be smoother
- Conclusion could offer more insight beyond restating previous points
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
In todays world, there is big debate about where governments should spend money. Some people think it’s good to spend on computer technology but others say basic needs are more important. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
First, computer technology is very important now. If countries have good computers and internet, they can do many things better. Business can be faster and schools can teach students with computers. This can help the country grow and become richer. Also, young people like technology and want to use it.
But, many people don’t have basic things they need. Some don’t have enough food or clean water. This is a big problem in poor countries. If people don’t have these things, they can get sick or even die. So, it’s very important for governments to help with these basic needs first.
I think both things are important. Governments should try to help people with basic needs because this is most important for life. But they should also spend some money on technology because it can help make life better too. Maybe they can use technology to help solve problems with food and water.
In conclusion, governments need to think carefully about how to spend money. They should help with basic needs first but also remember that technology is important for the future.
(Word count: 219)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates a basic understanding of the topic but has several limitations, placing it in the Band 5-6 range. Here’s an analysis:
Strengths:
- Addresses both views and provides a personal opinion
- Uses some relevant examples
- Has a clear structure with introduction, body, and conclusion
Areas for improvement:
- Limited vocabulary with repetitive phrases
- Simple sentence structures with some grammatical errors
- Ideas are not fully developed or explained in depth
- Lack of cohesive devices and smooth transitions between ideas
- Conclusion is somewhat repetitive and lacks insight
Key Vocabulary
- Allocate (verb) /ˈæləkeɪt/: to distribute for a specific purpose
- Prioritize (verb) /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/: to arrange in order of importance
- Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/: basic physical structures needed for society to operate
- Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: a new method, idea, or product
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: able to be maintained at a certain level
- Efficiency (noun) /ɪˈfɪʃnsi/: the state of being productive with minimum waste
- Fundamental (adjective) /ˌfʌndəˈmentl/: forming a necessary base or core
- Perspective (noun) /pəˈspektɪv/: a particular attitude or way of regarding something
- Synergy (noun) /ˈsɪnədʒi/: interaction of elements that produces a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/: characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
In conclusion, the topic of government spending on technology versus basic needs is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in this type of question, practice balancing different viewpoints, using sophisticated vocabulary, and developing well-structured arguments. Remember to always address all parts of the question and provide a clear, well-supported personal opinion.
Should governments invest more in renewable energy technologies? This related topic could be another potential IELTS question. Try writing a practice essay on this subject and share it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help improve your writing skills and prepare you for similar questions in the actual IELTS exam.