IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays: Should Governments Regulate Genetic Engineering?

Genetic engineering is a topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. As a complex and controversial issue, it provides an excellent opportunity for test-takers to demonstrate their critical thinking and writing skills. In this article, we’ll analyze a relevant question and provide sample essays for different band scores, helping you prepare for this challenging topic.

Analyzing the Topic and Its Relevance

The question of whether governments should regulate genetic engineering has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and the ongoing debate surrounding this technology, it’s highly likely that similar questions will continue to appear in future tests.

Let’s focus on the following question, which closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams:

Some people think that the government should regulate the use of genetic engineering, while others think that scientists should be free to research without government interference. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss arguments for government regulation of genetic engineering
2. Discuss arguments against government regulation (i.e., for scientific freedom)
3. Present your own opinion on the matter

Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your position.

Genetic Engineering Regulation

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response

Genetic engineering has emerged as a groundbreaking field with immense potential to revolutionize healthcare, agriculture, and environmental conservation. However, its power to manipulate the very building blocks of life has sparked intense debate about the need for governmental oversight. While some argue for strict regulation, others advocate for unfettered scientific exploration. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering a nuanced view on this complex issue.

Proponents of government regulation argue that the far-reaching implications of genetic engineering necessitate careful oversight. They contend that unchecked research could lead to unintended consequences, such as the creation of harmful organisms or the exacerbation of social inequalities through “designer babies.” Moreover, they emphasize the ethical concerns surrounding practices like human cloning or the modification of embryos, asserting that governmental guidelines are essential to prevent abuses and ensure that research aligns with societal values.

On the other hand, advocates for scientific freedom maintain that excessive regulation could stifle innovation and impede crucial advancements. They argue that scientists, guided by ethical committees and peer review processes, are best equipped to self-regulate their research. These proponents highlight the potential benefits of genetic engineering, such as curing genetic diseases, enhancing crop yields, and developing new therapies, which might be delayed or prevented by burdensome regulations.

In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines elements of both viewpoints is most appropriate. While I recognize the importance of scientific freedom in fostering innovation, I believe that some level of government oversight is necessary given the profound implications of genetic engineering. An ideal regulatory framework would establish broad ethical guidelines and safety standards without micromanaging the day-to-day conduct of research. This approach would provide a safeguard against potential abuses while still allowing scientists the flexibility to pursue groundbreaking discoveries.

In conclusion, the regulation of genetic engineering presents a complex challenge that requires careful consideration of both the potential benefits and risks. By striking a balance between government oversight and scientific freedom, we can harness the transformative power of genetic engineering while ensuring that it develops in a manner that aligns with our collective values and safeguards the wellbeing of society and the environment.

(Word count: 345)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:

1. Coherent structure: The essay follows a clear four-paragraph structure, addressing both views and the writer’s opinion.
2. Sophisticated vocabulary: The use of phrases like “far-reaching implications,” “exacerbation of social inequalities,” and “burdensome regulations” showcases advanced vocabulary.
3. Complex sentence structures: The essay employs a mix of simple and complex sentences, demonstrating grammatical range.
4. Clear position: The writer’s opinion is clearly stated and well-supported.
5. Relevant examples: The essay provides specific examples related to genetic engineering, showing topic knowledge.
6. Cohesive devices: Linking words and phrases like “moreover,” “on the other hand,” and “in conclusion” enhance coherence.

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response

Genetic engineering is a new technology that can change DNA. Some people think the government should control it, but others believe scientists should be free to do their research. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

There are good reasons why the government should regulate genetic engineering. First, it can be dangerous if not used carefully. For example, if scientists make mistakes, they might create harmful plants or animals. Second, there are ethical problems with some types of genetic engineering, like changing human embryos. The government can make rules to stop these problems and make sure the research is safe and ethical.

However, some people argue that scientists should have freedom to do their research without government interference. They say that too many rules can slow down important discoveries. For instance, genetic engineering could help cure diseases or make crops that can grow in dry places. If there are too many regulations, these benefits might take longer to happen or not happen at all.

In my opinion, there should be some government regulation, but it should not be too strict. I think it’s important to have rules to keep people safe and respect ethics. But the rules should not stop scientists from doing important research that can help people. The government and scientists should work together to find a good balance.

To conclude, genetic engineering is a complex issue with both risks and benefits. While some regulation is necessary to protect society, it’s also important to allow scientific progress. The best solution is to have clear rules that keep people safe but also let scientists do their important work.

(Word count: 273)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:

1. Clear structure: The essay addresses both views and presents the writer’s opinion.
2. Relevant ideas: The main points are relevant to the question and supported with examples.
3. Basic vocabulary: The essay uses some topic-specific vocabulary but lacks the sophistication of higher band scores.
4. Simple sentence structures: While generally accurate, the essay relies more on simple sentence structures.
5. Limited cohesion: The essay uses some cohesive devices but could benefit from more varied linking words.
6. Adequate development: Ideas are developed, but not as fully as in higher band essays.

Key Vocabulary for Genetic Engineering Essays

1. Genetic engineering (noun) – /dʒəˈnetɪk ˌendʒɪˈnɪərɪŋ/ – The manipulation of an organism’s genes using biotechnology.

2. Regulation (noun) – /ˌreɡjʊˈleɪʃən/ – Rules or directives made and maintained by an authority.

3. Ethical (adjective) – /ˈeθɪkəl/ – Relating to moral principles or the branch of knowledge dealing with these.

4. Oversight (noun) – /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – The action of overseeing something; supervision.

5. Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.

6. Implications (noun) – /ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃənz/ – The conclusion that can be drawn from something, although it is not explicitly stated.

7. Embryo (noun) – /ˈembriəʊ/ – An unborn or unhatched offspring in the process of development.

8. Safeguard (verb) – /ˈseɪfɡɑːd/ – Protect from harm or damage with an appropriate measure.

9. Groundbreaking (adjective) – /ˈɡraʊndbreɪkɪŋ/ – Innovative; pioneering.

10. Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.

Conclusion

The topic of government regulation in genetic engineering is likely to remain relevant for IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The ethical implications of genetic engineering in agriculture
• The potential benefits and risks of gene therapy in medicine
• The role of international cooperation in regulating genetic engineering

Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!