Genetic engineering in humans is a controversial topic that has gained significant attention in recent years. This subject has appeared multiple times in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams and is likely to continue being a popular theme due to its relevance and ethical implications. Based on past exam trends and the increasing prominence of genetic engineering in public discourse, we can expect to see questions related to this topic in future IELTS tests.
Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams:
Some people think that human genetic engineering should be developed, while others believe it is too dangerous. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question directly addresses genetic engineering ethics and requires candidates to explore multiple perspectives on the issue. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
The question asks candidates to:
- Discuss the advantages of developing human genetic engineering
- Explore the potential dangers and drawbacks
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter
A well-structured response should include an introduction, at least two body paragraphs discussing both viewpoints, a paragraph expressing the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Human genetic engineering is a groundbreaking field that has sparked intense debate in scientific and ethical circles. While some advocate for its development, citing potential medical breakthroughs, others warn of the dangers it may pose to society and human evolution. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own stance on this complex issue.
Proponents of human genetic engineering argue that it holds immense potential for improving human health and quality of life. By manipulating genes, scientists could potentially eradicate hereditary diseases, enhance resistance to certain illnesses, and even extend human lifespan. This technology could revolutionize medicine, offering hope to millions suffering from genetic disorders and reducing the burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Moreover, genetic engineering could lead to advancements in other fields, such as agriculture and environmental conservation, by creating more resilient and productive organisms.
On the other hand, critics raise valid concerns about the ethical implications and potential risks associated with genetic engineering. One major worry is the creation of “designer babies,” where parents could select specific traits for their children, potentially exacerbating social inequalities and discrimination. There are also fears about unforeseen consequences on human evolution and biodiversity. Furthermore, the technology could be misused for malicious purposes, such as creating biological weapons or furthering eugenic agendas. These concerns highlight the need for strict regulations and ethical guidelines in the field of genetic engineering.
In my opinion, while the potential benefits of human genetic engineering are undeniably significant, the ethical concerns and risks cannot be overlooked. I believe that research in this field should continue, but under strict regulatory oversight and with a focus on medical applications rather than enhancement of non-essential traits. It is crucial to establish a global consensus on ethical guidelines and to involve diverse stakeholders in decision-making processes to ensure that the technology is developed responsibly and equitably.
In conclusion, human genetic engineering presents both promising opportunities and serious ethical challenges. As we advance in this field, it is essential to proceed with caution, balancing scientific progress with ethical considerations and potential long-term consequences for humanity.
(Word count: 398)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Human genetic engineering is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it should be developed more, while others say it is too dangerous. This essay will look at both sides and give my own thoughts.
People who support genetic engineering say it can help solve many health problems. They believe that by changing genes, doctors could stop diseases that run in families and make people live longer and healthier lives. This could help many sick people and their families. Also, genetic engineering might help in other areas like making better food or finding ways to clean the environment.
However, there are also people who think genetic engineering is very risky. They worry that it might be used to make “perfect” babies, which could cause problems in society. There are also concerns about unexpected effects on how humans evolve and on nature. Some people fear that this technology could be used in bad ways, like making dangerous weapons. These worries show why we need to be careful with genetic engineering.
I think that genetic engineering could be very helpful, but we need to be very careful about how we use it. It’s important to keep studying it, but there should be strict rules about what scientists can do. We should focus on using genetic engineering to help sick people, not to make people “better” in other ways. It’s also important that people from different backgrounds have a say in how this technology is used.
To sum up, genetic engineering has both good and bad points. We need to think carefully about how to use it in a safe and fair way that helps people without causing other problems.
(Word count: 287)
Essay Analysis and Band Score Explanation
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and meets all the criteria for a high band score:
- 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. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with flexibility and precision. Less common lexical items are used with full awareness of style and collocation.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used accurately and appropriately, with only rare minor errors.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good writing skills but has some limitations:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but some aspects are covered more fully than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some cohesive devices are overused or under-used.
- 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 few errors that do not impede communication.
The main differences between the two essays lie in the depth of analysis, sophistication of language use, and overall coherence. The Band 8-9 essay provides more nuanced arguments and uses more advanced vocabulary and structures.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Genetic engineering (noun) /dʒəˈnetɪk ˌendʒɪˈnɪərɪŋ/ – The deliberate modification of an organism’s genetic material.
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Hereditary (adjective) /həˈredɪtəri/ – Passed down from parents to offspring through genes.
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Eradicate (verb) /ɪˈrædɪkeɪt/ – To completely destroy or get rid of something.
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Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – To make a problem or situation worse.
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Eugenic (adjective) /juːˈdʒenɪk/ – Relating to the belief that the genetic quality of the human race can be improved through selective breeding.
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
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Consensus (noun) /kənˈsensəs/ – A general agreement or accord.
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Stakeholder (noun) /ˈsteɪkhəʊldə(r)/ – A person or group with an interest or concern in something.
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Equitably (adverb) /ˈekwɪtəbli/ – In a fair and impartial manner.
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Oversight (noun) /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – The action of overseeing something, especially the supervision or management of a project or operation.
In conclusion, the ethical considerations of genetic engineering in humans remain a critical topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As technology advances, we can expect to see more questions addressing various aspects of this issue, such as ethical concerns of human cloning or how to manage the ethical implications of gene editing. To prepare for such questions, candidates should practice writing balanced arguments, considering multiple perspectives, and developing their own informed opinions on the subject.
We encourage readers to practice writing their own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below. This active engagement will help improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.