Space exploration and tourism have become increasingly popular topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on recent trends and past exam questions, it’s likely that candidates may encounter prompts related to the consequences of space tourism on scientific research. To help you prepare for such questions, we’ve analyzed several past exams and created sample essays for different band scores. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS tests:
Some people think that space tourism will have a negative impact on scientific research in space. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to express your opinion on whether space tourism will negatively affect scientific research in space. You need to:
- Clearly state your position (agree, disagree, or partially agree)
- Provide reasons and examples to support your argument
- Discuss potential impacts of space tourism on scientific research
- Consider both positive and negative aspects to demonstrate a balanced view
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Space tourism has emerged as a controversial topic in recent years, with some arguing that it may hinder scientific progress in space exploration. While I acknowledge that there are potential drawbacks, I largely disagree with the notion that space tourism will have a predominantly negative impact on scientific research in space.
Firstly, space tourism has the potential to stimulate innovation and technological advancements that can benefit scientific research. As private companies invest in developing safer, more efficient spacecraft and launch systems to cater to tourists, these improvements can be applied to scientific missions as well. For instance, SpaceX’s reusable rocket technology, initially developed for commercial purposes, has significantly reduced the cost of launching scientific payloads into orbit.
Moreover, increased public interest in space travel can lead to greater funding and support for space-related research. As more people experience space firsthand or become enthusiastic about the possibility, there may be a surge in public backing for space exploration programs. This heightened interest could translate into increased government funding and private donations for scientific endeavors in space.
However, it is important to acknowledge that space tourism may present some challenges to scientific research. The increased traffic in Earth’s orbit and beyond could potentially interfere with sensitive scientific instruments or create additional space debris. Additionally, the focus on profitable tourism ventures might divert resources and attention away from pure scientific pursuits.
Nevertheless, I believe that these potential negative impacts can be mitigated through proper regulation and collaboration between the scientific community and the space tourism industry. By establishing clear guidelines for space traffic management and encouraging partnerships between research institutions and commercial space companies, we can ensure that scientific priorities are not compromised.
In conclusion, while space tourism may pose some challenges to scientific research, I believe that its overall impact will be more positive than negative. The technological advancements, increased public interest, and potential for collaboration outweigh the potential drawbacks. As we move forward, it is crucial to strike a balance between commercial interests and scientific pursuits to maximize the benefits of space exploration for all of humanity.
(Word count: 330)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, space tourism has become a hot topic, and some people worry that it might have a negative effect on scientific research in space. While I understand these concerns, I partially agree with this view as I believe space tourism can have both positive and negative impacts on space science.
On one hand, space tourism could potentially harm scientific research in some ways. First, it might take away resources and funding from important scientific missions. Companies and governments might focus more on making money from space tourists instead of supporting scientific projects. Also, more spacecraft in orbit could create more space junk, which could be dangerous for scientific satellites and the International Space Station.
However, I think space tourism can also bring some benefits to scientific research. For example, as more people become interested in space because of tourism, there might be more public support for space exploration and research. This could lead to more funding for scientific projects in the long run. Additionally, the technology developed for space tourism, like better rockets and life support systems, could also be used for scientific missions, making them cheaper and more efficient.
Another positive aspect is that space tourists might be able to help with some scientific experiments. They could collect data or perform simple tasks that would be useful for researchers. This could provide scientists with more opportunities to conduct experiments in space without having to send professional astronauts every time.
In conclusion, while space tourism might present some challenges to scientific research in space, I believe it also offers potential benefits. The key is to find a balance between commercial interests and scientific goals. If managed properly, space tourism and scientific research could coexist and even support each other, leading to greater advancements in our understanding of space.
(Word count: 295)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, space tourism is becoming more popular, and some people think it will be bad for scientific research in space. I partly agree with this idea because I think space tourism can have both good and bad effects on space science.
One reason why space tourism might be bad for science is that it costs a lot of money. Companies might spend more money on making space hotels and tourist trips instead of helping scientists study space. This could mean less money for important space research projects.
Another problem is that space tourists might make space more crowded. If there are too many spaceships and people in space, it might be harder for scientists to do their work safely. There could be more accidents or space junk that could damage scientific equipment.
However, I think space tourism can also help science in some ways. When more people go to space as tourists, they might become more interested in space science. This could make more people want to support space research and exploration. Also, the technology used for space tourism might be useful for scientific missions too.
Space tourists might even be able to help scientists sometimes. They could take pictures or do simple experiments that would be helpful for researchers. This could give scientists more chances to learn about space without having to send professional astronauts all the time.
In conclusion, I think space tourism can have both positive and negative effects on scientific research in space. It’s important to find a way for tourism and science to work together in space. If we can do this, both space tourism and space science could benefit and help us learn more about the universe.
(Word count: 270)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended and supported ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. A wide range of cohesive devices is used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy.
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are arranged coherently and there is a clear overall progression.
- Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task, with some attempts at less common vocabulary.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with good control and only occasional errors.
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task, but the format is simple and arguments may be underdeveloped.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are organized with some use of cohesive devices, but there may be some lack of overall progression.
- Lexical Resource: A limited range of vocabulary is used, with some errors in word choice and spelling.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is attempted, but with limited flexibility and some grammatical errors.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Space tourism (noun) – /speɪs ˈtʊərɪzəm/ – The activity of traveling into space for recreational purposes.
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Scientific research (noun phrase) – /ˌsaɪənˈtɪfɪk rɪˈsɜːtʃ/ – Systematic investigation to establish facts and reach new conclusions in science.
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Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The introduction of new ideas, methods, or things.
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Technological advancements (noun phrase) – /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ədˈvɑːnsmənts/ – Improvements in technology or scientific knowledge.
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Orbit (noun/verb) – /ˈɔːbɪt/ – The curved path of a celestial object around a star, planet, or moon.
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Space debris (noun phrase) – /speɪs ˈdebrɪ/ – Defunct artificial objects in space, especially in Earth’s orbit.
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Collaboration (noun) – /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/ – The action of working with someone to produce something.
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Mitigation (noun) – /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/ – The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something.
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Coexist (verb) – /ˌkəʊɪɡˈzɪst/ – Exist at the same time or in the same place.
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Synergy (noun) – /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
In conclusion, the topic of space tourism’s impact on scientific research is a complex and thought-provoking subject for IELTS Writing Task 2. By studying these sample essays and understanding the scoring criteria, you can improve your ability to craft well-structured, coherent arguments on this and similar topics. Remember to practice writing your own essays on this theme, considering both the potential benefits and drawbacks of space tourism for scientific research. You’re encouraged to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and further discussion. This active engagement will help you develop the skills needed to excel in your IELTS Writing Task 2.
As you continue to prepare, consider exploring related topics that might appear in future IELTS exams, such as:
- The ethical implications of space exploration and colonization
- The role of private companies in space research and development
- The environmental impact of increased space activities
- International cooperation vs. competition in space exploration
- The potential economic benefits of space resource exploitation
By broadening your knowledge on these related subjects, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle a wide range of space-related topics in your IELTS Writing Task 2.