In recent years, the topic of government funding for alternative medicine research has gained significant traction in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject has appeared multiple times in past exams and is likely to continue featuring prominently in future tests. Let’s explore this theme through a carefully selected question that closely resembles those encountered in actual IELTS exams.
Some people think that governments should spend money on developing or buying computer technology, while others disagree and think that this money should be spent on more basic needs. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents a classic IELTS debate topic, asking candidates to discuss two opposing viewpoints and provide their own opinion. The key aspects to address are:
- The argument for government investment in computer technology
- The counterargument for focusing on basic needs
- Your personal stance on the issue
It’s crucial to provide a balanced discussion of both perspectives before presenting your opinion, supported by relevant examples and logical reasoning.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In the modern era, the allocation of government funds has become a topic of heated debate, particularly concerning the balance between technological advancement and addressing fundamental societal needs. While some advocate for substantial investment in computer technology, others argue that resources should be primarily directed towards basic necessities. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government spending on computer technology argue that such investments are crucial for a nation’s progress and competitiveness in the global arena. They contend that technological advancements drive economic growth, create job opportunities, and enhance overall productivity across various sectors. For instance, countries like South Korea and Japan have significantly benefited from their governments’ focus on technology, establishing themselves as world leaders in electronics and digital innovation. Moreover, investing in computer technology can lead to improvements in essential services such as healthcare and education, ultimately contributing to a higher quality of life for citizens.
On the other hand, those who prioritize basic needs argue that a government’s primary responsibility is to ensure its population’s fundamental well-being. This perspective emphasizes the importance of addressing issues like poverty, hunger, and access to clean water and healthcare before allocating funds to technological pursuits. They argue that in many developing countries, a significant portion of the population still lacks access to these basic necessities, and addressing these issues should take precedence over technological investments. Furthermore, they contend that focusing on basic needs creates a stronger foundation for societal development and stability, which is essential for long-term progress.
In my opinion, while both arguments have merit, I believe that a balanced approach is most beneficial for a country’s development. Governments should strive to address basic needs as a priority, ensuring that fundamental human rights and necessities are met for all citizens. However, this should not come at the complete expense of technological advancement. A strategic allocation of resources that prioritizes basic needs while also investing in technology can create a synergistic effect, where technological innovations contribute to more efficient and effective solutions for addressing fundamental societal issues.
In conclusion, the debate between investing in computer technology and focusing on basic needs is not a matter of choosing one over the other, but rather finding an optimal balance. Governments should aim to create comprehensive development strategies that address immediate societal needs while also fostering technological growth for long-term prosperity and competitiveness.
(Word count: 398)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In today’s world, there is a big debate about how governments should spend their money. Some people think it’s important to invest in computer technology, while others believe that basic needs should come first. This essay will look at both sides of this argument and give my opinion.
Those who support spending on computer technology say it’s necessary for a country to stay competitive. They believe that investing in technology can create jobs and help the economy grow. For example, countries like the United States and China have become very powerful because of their focus on technology. Also, computer technology can improve important areas like education and healthcare, which can make life better for everyone.
On the other hand, people who think basic needs are more important argue that governments should first make sure everyone has enough food, clean water, and good healthcare. They say that in many countries, a lot of people still don’t have these basic things, and this should be fixed before spending money on technology. They believe that taking care of these basic needs will make a country stronger and more stable in the long run.
I think both sides have good points, but I believe it’s best to find a balance between the two. Governments should first make sure that everyone’s basic needs are met. This is very important for the well-being of people. However, they shouldn’t completely ignore technology. By spending some money on technology, countries can find better ways to solve their basic problems and also prepare for the future.
In conclusion, I think governments should focus on both basic needs and technology. They should prioritize making sure everyone has what they need to live well, but also invest in technology to help solve problems and improve the country’s future.
(Word count: 300)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, there is a big discussion about how governments should use their money. Some people think it’s good to spend money on computer technology, but others say it’s better to use money for basic needs. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
People who like spending on computer technology think it’s important for countries to be modern. They say that technology can help make more jobs and make the country richer. For example, some countries have become very strong because they focus on technology. Also, computers can help make schools and hospitals better.
But other people think basic needs are more important. They say that many people in some countries don’t have enough food or clean water, and governments should help these people first. They think that if people have their basic needs met, the country will be stronger.
I think both ideas are good, but it’s better to do both things. Governments should first make sure everyone has food, water, and healthcare. This is very important. But they should also spend some money on technology because it can help solve problems faster.
To finish, I believe governments should try to help with basic needs and also support technology. This way, they can help people now and also make the country better for the future.
(Word count: 214)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic. Key strengths include:
- Coherent structure: Clear introduction, balanced body paragraphs, and a well-reasoned conclusion.
- Lexical resource: Wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “allocation,” “competitiveness,” “synergistic effect”).
- Grammatical range and accuracy: Complex sentence structures and a variety of grammatical forms used effectively.
- Task response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed argument and relevant examples.
- Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow logically with appropriate use of cohesive devices.
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows good writing skills with some areas for improvement:
- Structure: Clear organization but less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay.
- Vocabulary: Good use of topic-related vocabulary, but less varied than the higher band essay.
- Grammar: Generally accurate with some complex structures, but less variety than the Band 8-9 essay.
- Task response: Addresses all parts of the task, but with less depth and fewer examples than the higher band essay.
- Cohesion: Ideas are linked, but with less sophisticated cohesive devices.
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay demonstrates basic writing skills with several areas needing improvement:
- Structure: Simple but clear organization.
- Vocabulary: Limited range of vocabulary with some repetition.
- Grammar: Simple sentence structures with occasional errors.
- Task response: Addresses the main points of the task but lacks depth and detailed examples.
- Cohesion: Basic linking of ideas, but lacks sophistication in cohesive devices.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Allocation (noun) – /ˌæləˈkeɪʃn/ – the act of distributing resources for a specific purpose
- Competitiveness (noun) – /kəmˈpetətɪvnəs/ – the ability to be as good as or better than others of a comparable nature
- Fundamental (adjective) – /ˌfʌndəˈmentl/ – forming a necessary base or core; of central importance
- Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – the introduction of new ideas, methods, or things
- Prioritize (verb) – /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – to designate or treat something as more important than other things
- Synergistic (adjective) – /ˌsɪnəˈdʒɪstɪk/ – relating to the interaction of elements that when combined produce a total effect greater than the sum of the individual elements
- Technological advancement (noun phrase) – /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl ədˈvɑːnsmənt/ – progress in science and technology
- Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
In conclusion, the topic of government funding for alternative medicine research is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on similar topics, such as:
- Government funding for space exploration vs. environmental protection
- Investing in public transportation vs. improving road infrastructure
- Allocating resources to preserve cultural heritage vs. promoting modern arts and entertainment
Remember to analyze the question carefully, present balanced arguments, and support your points with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning will significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills.