IELTS Writing Task 2: Should Space Exploration Be Funded by the Government? (Sample Essays for Band 6-7 and 8-9)

Space exploration has been a topic of debate in IELTS Writing Task 2 for years, with varying frequencies. While not as common as subjects like education or technology, it does appear periodically, especially in relation to government funding. Based on past trends and current global interests, we can expect this topic to maintain its relevance in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a specific question that has appeared in recent tests:

Some people think that space exploration is a waste of money and that the funds should be relocated to other sectors. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analyzing the Question

This question asks for your opinion on whether government funding for space exploration is justified or if it should be redirected to other areas. Key points to consider:

1. The statement presents a view that space exploration is not worth the investment.
2. You need to express your level of agreement or disagreement.
3. Your response should discuss both the value of space exploration and potential alternative uses for the funds.

Sample Essay (Band 8-9)

Space exploration has long been a subject of fascination and controversy, with some arguing that it’s a frivolous expense in the face of pressing earthly concerns. However, I strongly disagree with the notion that space exploration is a waste of money and believe that continued government funding is not only justified but essential for human progress.

Firstly, space exploration drives technological innovation that benefits society as a whole. Many everyday technologies we now take for granted, such as GPS, weather forecasting systems, and satellite communications, are direct results of space research. These advancements have revolutionized various sectors, including agriculture, disaster management, and global connectivity. By continuing to invest in space exploration, we foster an environment of innovation that can lead to solutions for some of our most pressing challenges on Earth.

Moreover, space exploration provides invaluable scientific knowledge about our universe and our planet. Studying other planets and celestial bodies helps us better understand Earth’s climate, geology, and potential future challenges. For instance, research on Mars has provided insights into climate change processes, which can be applied to addressing environmental issues on Earth. This knowledge is crucial for making informed decisions about our planet’s future and potentially finding solutions to global problems.

Additionally, space exploration inspires and educates future generations. The Apollo missions of the 1960s and 70s sparked a surge in interest in science and technology, leading to increased enrollment in STEM fields. Today, missions like the Mars rovers continue to captivate public imagination and encourage young people to pursue careers in science and engineering. This inspiration is invaluable for fostering innovation and ensuring a scientifically literate society.

While it’s true that there are pressing issues on Earth that require funding, it’s not a zero-sum game. The budget allocated to space exploration is often a small fraction of a country’s overall spending, and the returns on this investment – in terms of technological advancements, scientific knowledge, and economic benefits – far outweigh the costs. Furthermore, many of the technologies developed for space exploration have direct applications in addressing earthly concerns, from improving medical imaging to developing more efficient solar panels.

In conclusion, while the immediate benefits of space exploration may not always be apparent, its long-term value to society is immeasurable. By continuing to fund space exploration, governments invest in our collective future, driving innovation, expanding our knowledge, and inspiring generations to come. The question should not be whether we can afford to explore space, but rather, can we afford not to?

(Word count: 398)

Government funding for space exploration

Sample Essay (Band 6-7)

The question of whether space exploration is a good use of government money is a topic that many people have different opinions about. While some think it’s a waste, I believe that space exploration is important and should continue to receive funding, but with some considerations.

One reason why space exploration is valuable is because of the new technologies it creates. Many things we use every day, like satellite TV and accurate GPS, came from space research. These inventions help make our lives easier and can even save lives in emergencies. By continuing to explore space, we might discover more useful technologies that can help solve problems on Earth.

Another benefit of space exploration is that it teaches us about our planet and the universe. By studying other planets, we can learn more about Earth’s environment and how to protect it. For example, research on Venus has helped us understand climate change better. This knowledge is important for making decisions about how to care for our planet.

However, it’s true that there are many problems on Earth that need money too. Issues like poverty, healthcare, and education are very important and need funding. I think the government should find a balance between funding space exploration and addressing these earthly concerns. Maybe they could reduce the space budget a little and use that money for other urgent needs.

Space exploration also inspires young people to become scientists and engineers. When kids see rockets launching or robots on Mars, it can make them excited about science. This is good for the future because we need smart people to solve the world’s problems.

In conclusion, I believe that space exploration should continue to be funded by the government, but perhaps not as much as before. The benefits it brings in terms of technology, knowledge, and inspiration are important for our future. However, we should also make sure we’re taking care of immediate problems on Earth. A balanced approach, where we explore space while also addressing earthly issues, seems like the best way forward.

(Word count: 329)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases (e.g., “frivolous expense,” “foster an environment of innovation,” “zero-sum game”), while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler sentences but still maintains grammatical accuracy.

4. Task Response: Both essays address the question directly, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more comprehensive argument.

5. Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay has smoother transitions between ideas and paragraphs, creating a more cohesive overall argument.

Challenging Vocabulary to Remember

1. Frivolous (adjective) /ˈfrɪvələs/ – not having any serious purpose or value
2. Celestial (adjective) /sɪˈlestiəl/ – positioned in or relating to the sky, or outer space as observed in astronomy
3. Captivate (verb) /ˈkæptɪveɪt/ – attract and hold the interest and attention of; charm
4. Zero-sum game (noun phrase) /ˈzɪərəʊ sʌm ɡeɪm/ – a situation in which one person or group can only gain something by causing another person or group to lose it
5. Immeasurable (adjective) /ɪˈmeʒərəbl/ – too large, extensive, or extreme to measure
6. Endeavor (noun) /ɪnˈdevər/ – an attempt to achieve a goal
7. Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – the action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
8. Revolutionize (verb) /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/ – change (something) radically or fundamentally

Conclusion

The topic of government funding for space exploration is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related topics such as:

• The role of private companies in space exploration
• The ethical implications of space colonization
• Balancing space exploration with environmental protection on Earth

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.