Space exploration has been a topic of debate in recent years, with many questioning whether governments should allocate funds to such endeavors. This topic has appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 several times, and its frequency is expected to increase due to the growing interest in space technology and its potential benefits. Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this subject and analyze sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should spend money on space exploration programs. Others believe that money should be spent on more immediate needs. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for government funding of space exploration
- Present reasons why money should be spent on immediate needs
- Provide their personal opinion on the matter
Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores to understand how to approach this topic effectively.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Space exploration has been a subject of intense debate, with some advocating for increased government funding while others argue for prioritizing more pressing issues. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of space exploration argue that it drives technological innovation and scientific discovery. NASA’s research has led to numerous advancements in fields such as medicine, communications, and environmental monitoring. Moreover, space exploration inspires future generations of scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and progress. Additionally, some argue that space exploration is crucial for the long-term survival of humanity, as it may provide solutions to challenges like overpopulation and resource depletion.
On the other hand, critics contend that government funds should be directed towards more immediate concerns. They argue that issues such as poverty, healthcare, and education require urgent attention and resources. In many countries, basic needs remain unmet, and allocating substantial funds to space programs may seem frivolous or even unethical. Furthermore, skeptics question the tangible benefits of space exploration for the average citizen, arguing that the enormous costs outweigh the potential gains.
In my opinion, while addressing immediate societal needs is crucial, governments should not entirely abandon space exploration. A balanced approach is necessary, where a portion of the budget is allocated to space programs while ensuring that essential services are not neglected. The technological advancements and scientific discoveries resulting from space exploration often have far-reaching benefits that can indirectly address immediate needs. For instance, satellite technology developed for space missions has revolutionized weather forecasting, disaster management, and global communications.
In conclusion, while the debate over government funding for space exploration is complex, I believe that a measured approach, balancing immediate needs with long-term scientific progress, is the most prudent course of action. By maintaining investment in space exploration alongside other critical areas, societies can reap the benefits of scientific advancement while addressing pressing concerns.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent coherence, cohesion, and task achievement, key factors for a high band score. The introduction clearly outlines the essay’s structure, addressing both views and indicating that a personal opinion will be given. Each paragraph is well-developed with clear topic sentences and relevant supporting ideas. The use of complex sentence structures and advanced vocabulary (e.g., “proponents,” “tangible benefits,” “frivolous”) contributes to a high score in Lexical Resource and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s opinion, providing a balanced view of the issue.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, there is a debate about whether governments should spend money on space exploration or focus on more immediate needs. This essay will discuss both sides of this argument and give my opinion.
Some people think that governments should invest in space exploration programs. They believe that these programs can lead to new discoveries and technologies that can benefit society. For example, many inventions like satellite TV and GPS came from space research. Also, exploring space can help us understand more about our planet and the universe. It might even help us find solutions to problems like climate change.
On the other hand, others argue that government money should be used for more urgent needs. They say that there are many problems in the world that need immediate attention, such as poverty, healthcare, and education. These people think it’s more important to help people who are struggling now rather than spend money on space projects that might not have immediate benefits. They believe that improving people’s lives on Earth should be the priority.
In my opinion, I think governments should try to balance both space exploration and immediate needs. While it’s important to address current problems, we shouldn’t completely stop investing in space research. Space exploration can lead to new technologies and knowledge that might help solve some of our current problems in the long run. However, governments should make sure they are not neglecting basic needs while funding space programs.
To conclude, the question of whether to fund space exploration or focus on immediate needs is complex. I believe a balanced approach, where governments invest in both areas, is the best solution. This way, we can work on solving current problems while also preparing for the future.
(Word count: 295)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates a good understanding of the task and addresses all parts of the question. The structure is clear, with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion with the writer’s opinion. The language used is generally clear and appropriate, though less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay.
The essay uses some complex sentences and attempts to use a range of vocabulary, which is characteristic of a Band 6-7 score. However, the ideas could be developed more fully, and there’s room for improvement in terms of cohesion and the use of more advanced vocabulary and grammatical structures. The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s opinion, providing a balanced view of the issue.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Some people think governments should spend money on space exploration programs, but others think it’s better to spend money on things we need now. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
People who support space exploration say it’s good because we can learn new things. When we go to space, we make new inventions that can help us on Earth. For example, we have better phones and computers because of space research. Also, if we explore space, we might find new places to live if Earth becomes too crowded.
But other people think we should use money for problems we have now. They say many people are poor and need food and homes. Also, some countries don’t have good schools or hospitals. These people think it’s more important to help people now instead of spending money on space.
I think both ideas are important. We need to help people who have problems now, but we also need to think about the future. Maybe we can use some money for space and some money for other things. If we do this, we can help people now and also learn new things that might help us later.
In conclusion, I believe governments should try to do both things. They should help people with their problems now, but also spend some money on space exploration. This way, we can make life better for everyone now and in the future.
(Word count: 238)
Analysis of Band 5-6 Essay
This essay addresses the task and presents both views as well as the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas are not as fully developed as in the higher band essays. The language used is simpler, with shorter sentences and more basic vocabulary. This is typical of a Band 5-6 essay.
The essay structure is clear, but paragraphs could be more cohesive. There are some attempts at using linking words (e.g., “For example,” “Also,” “But”), which is positive. However, the range of vocabulary and grammatical structures is limited. The conclusion restates the main points and the writer’s opinion, but it could be more sophisticated.
To improve this essay, the writer could:
- Use more complex sentence structures
- Incorporate a wider range of vocabulary
- Develop ideas more fully with specific examples
- Improve cohesion between and within paragraphs
- Use more sophisticated linking words and phrases
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Space exploration (noun) – /speɪs ˌekspləˈreɪʃən/ – The investigation of outer space
- Allocate (verb) – /ˈæləkeɪt/ – To distribute for a specific purpose
- Technological innovation (noun phrase) – /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The development of new technologies
- Immediate needs (noun phrase) – /ɪˈmiːdiət niːdz/ – Urgent requirements or necessities
- Proponents (noun) – /prəˈpəʊnənts/ – People who advocate for a cause or course of action
- Tangible benefits (noun phrase) – /ˈtændʒəbəl ˈbenɪfɪts/ – Clear, measurable advantages
- Frivolous (adjective) – /ˈfrɪvələs/ – Not having any serious purpose or value
- Balanced approach (noun phrase) – /ˈbælənst əˈprəʊtʃ/ – A method considering multiple perspectives equally
Conclusion
The topic of government funding for space exploration programs is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays that discuss both perspectives and clearly state your opinion. Remember to use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and aim to develop your ideas fully with relevant examples.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of private companies in space exploration
- The ethical implications of space colonization
- The environmental impact of space missions
- The potential economic benefits of space tourism
We encourage you to write your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you improve your writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.
Why Governments Should Fund Space Exploration