Renewable energy has become a hot topic in recent years, and it’s no surprise that this subject frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on past exam trends and the increasing global focus on sustainability, it’s highly likely that questions related to government funding for renewable energy research will continue to be prevalent in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should spend money 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.
This question asks you to discuss two contrasting views on government spending priorities: investing in computer technology versus addressing basic needs. While it doesn’t directly mention renewable energy, we can adapt our response to include this topic as part of the broader discussion on technology and societal needs.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In the ongoing debate about government spending priorities, some argue for investments in cutting-edge technology, while others advocate for focusing on fundamental necessities. Both perspectives have merit, but I believe a balanced approach that includes funding for renewable energy research is crucial for long-term societal well-being.
Those who support government spending on computer technology argue that it drives innovation and economic growth. Advanced technologies can enhance productivity, create new industries, and improve quality of life. For instance, investments in artificial intelligence and robotics have led to breakthroughs in healthcare and manufacturing. Moreover, a technologically advanced nation is better positioned to compete in the global economy.
On the other hand, proponents of allocating funds to basic needs emphasize the importance of addressing immediate societal challenges. They contend that issues like poverty, hunger, and lack of access to healthcare and education should take precedence over technological advancements. This view is rooted in the belief that a government’s primary responsibility is to ensure the well-being of its citizens, particularly the most vulnerable.
In my opinion, the optimal approach lies in striking a balance between these two perspectives, with a particular emphasis on renewable energy research. Investing in renewable energy technologies represents a unique opportunity to address both technological advancement and basic needs simultaneously. By developing cleaner, more efficient energy sources, governments can create jobs, reduce long-term energy costs, and improve environmental conditions – all of which contribute to meeting basic societal needs.
Furthermore, renewable energy research has the potential to solve some of the world’s most pressing problems. Climate change, for example, poses a significant threat to food security, public health, and economic stability. By funding research into solar, wind, and other renewable technologies, governments can work towards mitigating these risks while also fostering technological innovation.
In conclusion, while both viewpoints on government spending have their merits, I believe that a balanced approach that prioritizes renewable energy research offers the best path forward. This strategy not only addresses immediate basic needs but also invests in a sustainable future, ensuring long-term societal benefits and technological progress.
(Word count: 310)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
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Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion.
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Coherent arguments: Each paragraph develops a single main idea and supports it with relevant examples.
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Sophisticated vocabulary: The essay uses a range of advanced vocabulary accurately, such as “cutting-edge technology,” “artificial intelligence,” and “mitigating these risks.”
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Complex sentence structures: The writer employs a mix of simple and complex sentences, demonstrating a high level of grammatical control.
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Clear position: The writer’s opinion is clearly stated and consistently supported throughout the essay.
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Relevant examples: The essay provides specific examples to illustrate points, such as mentioning AI and robotics in healthcare and manufacturing.
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Cohesive devices: The essay uses a variety of cohesive devices to link ideas, such as “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” and “Furthermore.”
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
There is a debate about how governments should spend money. Some people think it’s important to invest in computer technology, while others believe basic needs should be the priority. In my opinion, both are important, but focusing on renewable energy research could be a good compromise.
People who support spending on computer technology say it’s important for progress. New technologies can help businesses work better and create new jobs. For example, computers and the internet have changed how we work and communicate. Countries that invest in technology can be more competitive in the global market.
On the other hand, those who want to focus on basic needs argue that many people still don’t have enough food, healthcare, or education. They think it’s more important to help people meet their basic needs before spending money on advanced technology. This view is based on the idea that governments should take care of their citizens first.
I believe that investing in renewable energy research is a good way to address both views. Renewable energy is a type of technology that can also help meet basic needs. By developing things like solar and wind power, governments can create new jobs and also provide cheaper, cleaner energy to people. This can help improve living conditions and protect the environment at the same time.
Renewable energy research can also help solve big problems like climate change. Climate change affects food production, health, and the economy. By investing in clean energy, governments can work on these problems while also developing new technologies.
In conclusion, I think governments should try to balance spending on technology and basic needs. Investing in renewable energy research is a good way to do this because it combines technological progress with meeting people’s basic needs.
(Word count: 287)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates several characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:
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Adequate structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs addressing both views, and a conclusion. However, the development of ideas is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Clear position: The writer’s opinion is stated and supported, although the argumentation is less nuanced than in higher band essays.
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Appropriate vocabulary: The essay uses relevant vocabulary, but the range is more limited compared to the Band 8-9 essay. There’s less use of advanced or specialized terms.
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Grammar and sentence structure: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, but with less variety and sophistication than the higher band essay.
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Cohesion: Basic cohesive devices are used to link ideas, but there’s less variety in their use compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Examples: The essay provides some examples to support points, but they are more general and less specific than in the higher band essay.
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Development of ideas: While the main points are clear, the ideas are not as fully developed or as analytically explored as in the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.
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Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to maintain at a certain rate or level, especially regarding ecological balance.
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: The action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
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Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/: The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
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Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/: Make (something bad) less severe, serious, or painful.
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Allocate (verb) /ˈæləkeɪt/: Distribute (resources or duties) for a particular purpose.
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Prioritize (verb) /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/: Designate or treat (something) as more important than other things.
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Long-term (adjective) /ˌlɒŋ ˈtɜːm/: Occurring over or involving a relatively long period of time.
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Fundamental (adjective) /ˌfʌndəˈmentl/: Forming a necessary base or core; of central importance.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
Conclusion
The topic of government funding for renewable energy research is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams due to its global importance. When approaching such questions, it’s crucial to consider multiple perspectives and provide a balanced argument. Practice writing essays on similar topics, such as:
- Should governments prioritize environmental protection over economic growth?
- To what extent should governments invest in space exploration versus addressing domestic issues?
- Is it more important for governments to fund scientific research or arts and culture?
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!