Space exploration has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays, reflecting its significance in contemporary debates. This topic has appeared in various forms over the years, with questions often focusing on the benefits and drawbacks of space exploration for humanity. Based on past trends and current global interests, we can expect this subject to continue featuring prominently in future IELTS exams.
For this article, we’ll focus on a question that encapsulates the essence of many space exploration-related IELTS topics:
Some people think that space exploration is a waste of resources while others believe that it is essential for the survival of humanity. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores, along with detailed explanations.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for and against space exploration
- Provide their personal opinion on the matter
- Support their points with relevant examples and explanations
The key challenge lies in balancing the discussion of both viewpoints while clearly stating and supporting your own stance.
Space Exploration Debate
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Space exploration has long been a subject of debate, with some viewing it as an unnecessary expense and others considering it crucial for human survival. While both perspectives have merit, I believe that the long-term benefits of space exploration far outweigh its costs.
Those who argue against space exploration often point to the immense financial resources it requires. They contend that these funds could be better allocated to solving pressing issues on Earth, such as poverty, healthcare, and climate change. For instance, the billions of dollars spent on NASA’s Mars missions could potentially feed millions of hungry people or fund breakthrough medical research. This argument is particularly poignant in times of economic hardship or global crises.
However, proponents of space exploration argue that it is essential for the long-term survival and progress of humanity. They highlight several key benefits:
Technological advancements: Space research has led to numerous innovations that benefit everyday life, from satellite communications to weather forecasting and GPS systems.
Scientific discoveries: Exploration of other planets and celestial bodies enhances our understanding of the universe and potentially our own planet’s history and future.
Resource exploitation: As Earth’s resources become depleted, space might offer new sources of rare materials and energy.
Survival insurance: Establishing colonies on other planets could serve as a safeguard against extinction-level events on Earth.
In my opinion, while the concerns about resource allocation are valid, the potential long-term benefits of space exploration are too significant to ignore. The technological spinoffs alone have already improved life on Earth in countless ways. Moreover, the inspiration and unity that space missions provide to humanity are intangible yet crucial benefits. The Apollo moon landings, for instance, not only advanced technology but also inspired generations of scientists and engineers.
Furthermore, as we face global challenges like climate change, the knowledge gained from studying other planets can provide valuable insights into our own environmental issues. The research conducted on Mars’ atmosphere, for example, has contributed to our understanding of climate dynamics on Earth.
In conclusion, while space exploration requires substantial resources, its potential to secure humanity’s future and drive progress makes it a worthwhile investment. A balanced approach that addresses immediate Earth-bound concerns while continuing to reach for the stars is not only possible but necessary for our species’ long-term prosperity and survival.
(Word count: 378)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Complex ideas are expressed with precision (e.g., “extinction-level events”, “technological spinoffs”).
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly. Errors are rare and do not impede communication.
Development and Support: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to the topic.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Space exploration is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it’s a waste of money, while others believe it’s very important for humans. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who are against space exploration say it costs too much money. They think this money should be used to solve problems on Earth like poverty and disease. For example, the money spent on sending robots to Mars could be used to build hospitals or schools in poor countries. They also say that space exploration doesn’t help ordinary people in their daily lives.
On the other hand, supporters of space exploration argue that it has many benefits for humanity. They say that space research leads to new technologies that we use every day, like satellite TV and weather forecasting. They also believe that exploring space helps us learn more about our planet and the universe. Some even think that in the future, humans might need to live on other planets if Earth becomes too crowded or damaged.
In my opinion, I think space exploration is important and we should continue it. While it’s true that it costs a lot of money, the benefits are worth it. Many inventions from space research, like special materials and medical equipment, have helped people on Earth. Also, studying other planets can help us understand and protect our own planet better.
However, I also believe we need to balance space exploration with solving problems on Earth. We shouldn’t ignore important issues like poverty and climate change. Maybe governments can find ways to do both – explore space and help people on Earth at the same time.
In conclusion, although space exploration is expensive, I think its benefits for humanity make it worthwhile. We just need to make sure we also take care of our problems here on Earth while we explore the stars.
(Word count: 309)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both viewpoints and the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, with clear progression of ideas. Basic cohesive devices are used, but more sophisticated linking of ideas could improve the score.
Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, with some attempts at less common words. However, the language use is less precise and varied compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with generally good control. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
Development and Support: Main points are supported with relevant ideas and examples, but the level of detail and explanation is less than in a higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary for Space Exploration Essays
Exploration (noun) /ˌekspləˈreɪʃn/: The action of traveling in or through an unfamiliar area in order to learn about it.
Resources (noun) /ˈriːsɔːrsɪz/: A stock or supply of money, materials, staff, and other assets that can be drawn on by a person or organization in order to function effectively.
Technological advancements (noun phrase) /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl ədˈvɑːnsmənts/: Improvements in technology or science that allow for progress in a field.
Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: The action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
Celestial bodies (noun phrase) /səˈlestʃəl ˈbɒdiz/: Natural objects visible in the sky, such as the sun, moon, planets, and stars.
Extinction-level event (noun phrase) /ɪkˈstɪŋkʃn ˈlevl ɪˈvent/: A hypothetical occurrence that would cause the extinction of the human species or drastically and permanently alter human civilization.
Climate dynamics (noun phrase) /ˈklaɪmət daɪˈnæmɪks/: The study of the physical processes responsible for climate variability and climate change.
Spinoff (noun) /ˈspɪnɒf/: A byproduct or incidental result of a larger project.
Colonization (noun) /ˌkɒlənaiˈzeɪʃn/: The action or process of settling among and establishing control over the indigenous people of an area.
Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level; conserving an ecological balance by avoiding depletion of natural resources.
Conclusion
Space exploration remains a compelling and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. As we’ve seen, it offers rich opportunities for discussion, touching on themes of resource allocation, technological progress, and humanity’s future. To prepare for potential questions on this topic, consider practicing with variations such as:
“The money spent on space exploration should be used to solve problems on Earth. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”
“Some people believe that space tourism will become common in the near future. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of this development?”
“International cooperation in space exploration is essential for progress. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of countries working together in space.”
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about knowing the topic, but also about structuring your essay well, using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and developing your ideas with relevant examples and explanations.
We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is one of the most effective ways to improve your IELTS writing skills. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!