Space exploration has long been a topic of debate in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. The question of whether governments should prioritize space research over public welfare continues to be relevant and is likely to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a recent IELTS question on this subject and analyze sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that governments should spend as much money as possible 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.
Analyzing the Question
This question asks us to discuss two opposing views:
- Governments should invest heavily in computer technology
- Governments should focus on basic needs
We need to explore both perspectives and then provide our own opinion. The topic relates to government spending priorities, touching on technology investment versus addressing fundamental societal needs.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
In today’s rapidly advancing world, the debate between investing in cutting-edge technology and addressing basic societal needs has become increasingly pertinent. While some argue that governments should allocate substantial funds to developing or acquiring computer technology, others contend that these resources would be better spent on fundamental necessities. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective on this complex issue.
Proponents of extensive investment in computer technology argue that such expenditure is crucial for a nation’s progress and competitiveness in the global arena. They contend that technological advancements drive economic growth, create high-skilled jobs, and foster innovation across various sectors. Moreover, in an increasingly digitalized world, staying at the forefront of computer technology is seen as essential for national security and maintaining a strategic advantage in areas such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
On the other hand, those who advocate for prioritizing basic needs argue that a government’s primary responsibility is to ensure the well-being of its citizens. They emphasize that issues such as poverty, healthcare, education, and infrastructure should take precedence over technological pursuits. This view is rooted in the belief that addressing these fundamental concerns creates a stronger foundation for societal development and ultimately leads to a more stable and prosperous nation.
In my opinion, while both arguments have merit, a balanced approach is necessary. Governments should strive to address basic needs while also investing judiciously in technological advancement. By allocating resources efficiently, it is possible to improve essential services through technological innovation. For instance, investing in e-health systems can enhance healthcare delivery, while digital education platforms can broaden access to quality education. This approach ensures that technological investments directly contribute to improving fundamental aspects of citizens’ lives.
In conclusion, the question of government spending priorities is not a simple either/or proposition. A nuanced strategy that leverages technological advancements to address basic needs while also fostering innovation can lead to comprehensive national development. By striking this balance, governments can work towards creating a society that is both technologically advanced and fundamentally sound in meeting its citizens’ essential requirements.
(Word count: 329)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates several qualities that contribute to a high band score:
-
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.
-
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “Moreover,” “On the other hand,” “For instance”).
-
Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “pertinent,” “contend,” “foster innovation,” “cybersecurity”).
-
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional statements).
-
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Now, let’s look at an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
In the modern world, there is a debate about how governments should spend money. Some people think that a lot of money should be used for computer technology, while others believe it’s more important to focus on basic needs. This essay will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
Those who support spending on computer technology say it’s very important for a country’s future. They think that having good technology helps the economy grow and creates jobs. Also, in today’s world where everything is becoming digital, it’s necessary to have good computer systems for things like security and business.
On the other hand, people who want to focus on basic needs say that the government should first take care of its people’s main problems. They believe that things like food, housing, healthcare, and education are more important than fancy technology. They think that if these basic things are taken care of, the country will be stronger and people will be happier.
In my opinion, I think both ideas are important, but we need to find a balance. Governments should try to solve basic problems while also investing some money in technology. For example, they could use new technology to make healthcare and education better. This way, they can improve people’s lives while also keeping up with technological progress.
To conclude, I believe that governments should not choose between technology and basic needs, but should try to do both. By using technology to help with basic needs, countries can develop in a way that helps everyone.
(Word count: 267)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates qualities that would place it in the Band 6-7 range:
-
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and presenting an opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
-
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
-
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores.
-
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control, though it lacks the flexibility seen in higher band scores.
-
Development of Ideas: Main points are supported, but the level of detail and explanation is less than in the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Pertinent (adjective) – /ˈpɜːrtɪnənt/ – relevant or applicable to a particular matter
- Contend (verb) – /kənˈtend/ – assert something as a position in an argument
- Foster (verb) – /ˈfɔːstər/ – encourage the development of something
- Digitalized (adjective) – /ˈdɪdʒɪtəlaɪzd/ – converted to or characterized by digital technology
- Cybersecurity (noun) – /ˌsaɪbərseˈkjʊərəti/ – the state of being protected against the criminal or unauthorized use of electronic data
- Precedence (noun) – /ˈpresɪdəns/ – the condition of being considered more important than someone or something else
- Judiciously (adverb) – /dʒuˈdɪʃəsli/ – with good judgment or sense
- Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
These vocabulary items can help elevate your essay and demonstrate a more sophisticated command of English.
In conclusion, the topic of government spending priorities, particularly regarding technology versus basic needs, is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Should countries collaborate on space exploration or focus on domestic issues? This question ties into broader debates about how scientific innovation can solve global energy shortages and why governments should fund scientific research. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with similar topics, such as “Should governments invest more in space research than in public welfare?” or “Is technological advancement more important than addressing poverty?”.
We encourage you to write your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.