The topic of animal testing in scientific research is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on past exam trends and the ongoing ethical debates surrounding this issue, it’s likely to continue appearing in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays for different band scores, focusing on the question: “Should The Use Of Animals In Scientific Research Be Banned?”
Ethical debate on animal testing
Analyzing the Essay Question
Some people believe that using animals for research purposes is cruel and should be banned. Others think that the benefits to humans outweigh any ethical concerns. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss arguments for banning animal testing
- Discuss arguments for continuing animal testing
- Provide your personal opinion on the issue
Remember to address all parts of the question and maintain a balanced approach while clearly stating your own stance.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Level
The use of animals in scientific research has long been a contentious issue, with valid arguments on both sides. While some argue that it is unethical and should be prohibited, others believe that the potential benefits to human health and scientific progress justify its continuation. In my opinion, while animal testing should be strictly regulated, a complete ban would be detrimental to medical advancements.
Those in favor of banning animal testing argue that it is morally reprehensible to subject sentient beings to pain and suffering for human gain. They contend that animals have inherent rights and that using them as mere tools for research violates these rights. Furthermore, opponents of animal testing point out that alternative methods, such as computer simulations and in vitro testing, are becoming increasingly sophisticated and can often replace animal experiments.
On the other hand, proponents of animal research argue that it has been instrumental in numerous medical breakthroughs, including the development of vaccines, cancer treatments, and life-saving surgical techniques. They maintain that the benefits to human health far outweigh the ethical concerns, as these advancements have saved countless human lives. Additionally, they argue that many animal studies are conducted with strict ethical guidelines to minimize suffering and that the knowledge gained is essential for understanding complex biological systems.
In my view, while the ethical concerns surrounding animal testing are valid, a complete ban would significantly impede scientific progress and potentially cost human lives. I believe a more balanced approach is necessary, one that involves stricter regulations, increased funding for alternative research methods, and a commitment to reducing animal testing wherever possible. This approach would allow for continued scientific advancement while addressing ethical concerns and promoting the development of more humane research techniques.
In conclusion, the debate over animal testing in scientific research is complex and multifaceted. While ethical considerations are paramount, the potential benefits to human health cannot be ignored. By striking a balance between scientific progress and animal welfare, we can work towards a future where animal testing is minimized, but not at the cost of crucial medical advancements.
(Word count: 329)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
- Coherent structure: The essay follows a clear four-paragraph structure, addressing both viewpoints and the writer’s opinion.
- Balanced argument: It presents both sides of the debate fairly before offering a nuanced personal opinion.
- Sophisticated vocabulary: The essay uses advanced vocabulary appropriately, such as “contentious,” “reprehensible,” and “multifaceted.”
- Complex sentence structures: It employs a variety of sentence structures, including complex sentences with multiple clauses.
- Clear position: The writer’s opinion is clearly stated and supported with logical reasoning.
- Relevant examples: The essay provides specific examples to support arguments on both sides.
- Cohesive devices: It uses a range of linking words and phrases to ensure smooth transitions between ideas.
- Task response: All parts of the question are fully addressed, including both viewpoints and a personal opinion.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Level
Animal testing in scientific research is a topic that many people have strong opinions about. Some think it should be stopped because it is cruel to animals, while others believe it is necessary for human progress. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
People who want to ban animal testing say it is wrong to hurt animals for human benefit. They argue that animals feel pain and suffer in experiments, which is not fair. Also, they point out that there are now other ways to do research, like using computers or testing on human cells in labs. These methods don’t harm animals and can still give useful results.
On the other hand, those who support animal testing say it has helped us make important medical discoveries. Many medicines and treatments we use today were first tested on animals. They believe that the benefits to humans are more important than the concerns about animal welfare. They also say that scientists try to treat the animals well and only use them when necessary.
In my opinion, I think animal testing should not be completely banned, but it should be done less and with more care. We should try to use other methods when possible, but sometimes animal testing might still be needed for important research. Scientists should always try to minimize animal suffering and only use animals when there is no other option.
To conclude, animal testing is a difficult issue with good arguments on both sides. While we should care about animal welfare, we also need to consider the benefits to human health. The best solution is to reduce animal testing and find better ways to do research without harming animals.
(Word count: 280)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
- Clear structure: The essay has a basic four-paragraph structure that addresses the task requirements.
- Balanced viewpoints: It presents arguments for and against animal testing.
- Adequate vocabulary: The essay uses appropriate vocabulary, though less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay.
- Mix of sentence structures: It includes both simple and compound sentences, with some attempts at complex structures.
- Personal opinion: The writer’s view is stated, though it could be more fully developed.
- Basic examples: The essay provides some examples to support arguments, but they are less specific than in higher-band essays.
- Some cohesive devices: It uses basic linking words to connect ideas, though less varied than in higher-band essays.
- Task response: All parts of the question are addressed, but with less depth and nuance than a higher-scoring essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- Ethical (adjective) /ˈeθɪkl/ – relating to moral principles
- Sentient (adjective) /ˈsenʃənt/ – able to perceive or feel things
- Reprehensible (adjective) /ˌreprɪˈhensəbl/ – deserving criticism
- In vitro (adjective) /ˌɪn ˈviːtrəʊ/ – performed or taking place in a test tube or culture dish
- Instrumental (adjective) /ˌɪnstrəˈmentl/ – serving as a means of doing something
- Impede (verb) /ɪmˈpiːd/ – delay or prevent by creating obstacles
- Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
Conclusion
The topic of animal testing in scientific research is likely to remain a relevant and challenging subject for IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing balanced arguments that consider multiple perspectives while clearly expressing your own opinion. Some related topics you might encounter include:
- The ethics of genetic engineering in medicine
- The use of technology in medical research
- Balancing scientific progress with environmental concerns
- Ethical considerations in human clinical trials
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare you for success in the exam.
