Space exploration has been a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, with questions often focusing on government investment in this field. Based on past exam trends and current global interests, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question and explore sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should spend money on space exploration. Others believe that governments should use this money to solve problems on Earth. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a classic debate in IELTS Writing Task 2. It asks you to:
- Discuss arguments for government spending on space exploration
- Discuss arguments for using that money to address earthly problems
- Present your own opinion on the matter
Remember to address all parts of the question in your essay to achieve a high score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Space exploration has long been a subject of debate, with some advocating for increased government funding while others argue that these resources should be directed towards solving immediate problems on Earth. Both perspectives have merit, and a balanced approach is crucial for sustainable progress.
Those in favor of space exploration argue that it drives technological innovation, which often has practical applications on Earth. For instance, satellite technology developed for space missions now plays a vital role in global communication, weather forecasting, and navigation systems. Moreover, space research has led to advancements in fields such as medicine, materials science, and energy production. Proponents also contend that space exploration inspires future generations of scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and discovery.
On the other hand, critics argue that with pressing issues like poverty, climate change, and healthcare crises, government funds should be prioritized for immediate earthly concerns. They posit that investing in education, renewable energy, and social welfare programs would yield more tangible benefits for society in the short term. Additionally, skeptics question the cost-effectiveness of space missions, citing the enormous expenses involved in space exploration compared to the uncertain returns.
In my opinion, a balanced approach is necessary. While addressing immediate societal needs is crucial, investing in space exploration can yield long-term benefits that may not be immediately apparent. Governments should allocate resources to both areas, ensuring that space research does not come at the expense of urgent terrestrial issues. By doing so, we can foster technological advancement while simultaneously tackling pressing global challenges.
In conclusion, the debate over government spending on space exploration versus earthly problems is complex. A nuanced approach that recognizes the value of both immediate problem-solving and long-term scientific endeavors is essential for holistic societal progress.
(Word count: 292)
Earth Problems vs. Space Exploration
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and offering a clear personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphs are well-linked, and the essay uses a range of cohesive devices effectively.
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Lexical Resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “technological innovation,” “satellite technology,” and “renewable energy.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It uses a variety of complex sentence structures with high accuracy. There’s a good mix of simple and compound-complex sentences.
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Balanced Argument: The essay presents a balanced view of both sides before offering a nuanced personal opinion, which is crucial for achieving a high band score.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether governments should invest in space exploration or focus on solving problems on Earth is a topic of much debate. There are arguments for both sides, and I will discuss them in this essay.
Some people believe that governments should spend money on space exploration. They argue that space research can lead to new technologies that can help us on Earth. For example, many inventions from space programs are now used in everyday life, like satellite TV and GPS. Also, exploring space can help us learn more about our planet and the universe, which is important for science.
On the other hand, many people think that government money should be used to solve problems on Earth first. They say that there are many urgent issues like poverty, disease, and climate change that need immediate attention. These problems affect millions of people, and solving them could improve many lives. They argue that it’s more important to help people now than to spend money on space missions.
In my opinion, I think both space exploration and solving Earth’s problems are important. However, I believe that we should focus more on Earth’s problems right now. While space exploration is valuable, issues like climate change and poverty are urgent and need immediate action. Governments should spend most of their money on these problems, but still keep some funding for space research.
In conclusion, both space exploration and solving Earth’s problems have their benefits. However, I think it’s more important to address the immediate challenges we face on our planet while still maintaining some investment in space research for future benefits.
(Word count: 268)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the question, presenting both viewpoints and offering a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited and repetitive (e.g., frequent use of “also” and “however”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, but lacks the sophistication and range seen in higher band scores. There’s some attempt at using topic-specific vocabulary (e.g., “climate change,” “GPS”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. However, there’s less variety in sentence structures compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Argument Development: While the essay presents both sides of the argument and offers a personal opinion, the ideas could be more fully elaborated and supported with specific examples.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Space exploration (noun) – /speɪs ˌekspləˈreɪʃən/ – The investigation of physical conditions in space and on stars, planets, and their moons through the use of artificial satellites, space probes, and human spaceflight.
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Government investment (noun phrase) – /ˈɡʌvənmənt ɪnˈvestmənt/ – The allocation of public funds by the government into various sectors or projects with the expectation of future benefits.
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Technological innovation (noun phrase) – /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The process of developing and introducing new methods, ideas, or products that lead to technological advancement.
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Sustainable progress (noun phrase) – /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈprəʊɡres/ – Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
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Cost-effectiveness (noun) – /kɒst ɪˈfektɪvnəs/ – The degree to which something is effective in relation to its cost.
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Holistic (adjective) – /həˈlɪstɪk/ – Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole.
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Nuanced approach (noun phrase) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst əˈprəʊtʃ/ – A method or perspective that shows subtle differences or variations in meaning, opinion, or attitude.
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Tangible benefits (noun phrase) – /ˈtændʒəbl ˈbenɪfɪts/ – Advantages or improvements that can be clearly seen, experienced, or measured.
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Renewable energy (noun phrase) – /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.
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Climate change (noun) – /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/ – Long-term shifts in global weather patterns and average temperatures.
Conclusion
The topic of government investment in space exploration versus addressing earthly problems is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays that present balanced arguments and clear personal opinions. Consider exploring related themes such as the role of space technology in disaster relief efforts or whether space exploration should be a global initiative.
As an exercise, try writing your own essay on this topic or a related one, such as “Some people believe that space exploration is a waste of resources while others think it is necessary for human survival. Discuss both views and give your opinion.” Share your essay in the comments section for feedback and further practice. Remember, consistent writing practice is key to improving your IELTS Writing Task 2 performance.
