Stem cell research ethics is a compelling topic that has appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 several times over the past few years. Given its relevance to scientific advancements and bioethical debates, it’s likely to remain a popular subject for future exams. After reviewing past IELTS questions, we’ve identified a question that closely aligns with this theme:
Some people think that it is acceptable to use animals in medical research for the benefit of human beings. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
While this question doesn’t explicitly mention stem cell research, it touches on the broader ethical considerations in scientific research involving living subjects. Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to express your opinion on the use of animals in medical research. Key points to consider:
- The main topic is the ethics of using animals in medical research.
- The question asks for your personal opinion (“To what extent do you agree or disagree?”).
- You need to discuss the potential benefits to humans versus the ethical concerns of animal testing.
- Consider both sides of the argument before presenting your stance.
Sample Essay for Band 8
Animal testing in medical research is a contentious issue that has sparked heated debates among scientists, ethicists, and the general public. While some argue that it is justifiable for the advancement of human health, I firmly believe that the use of animals in medical experiments is ethically unacceptable and should be strictly limited.
Admittedly, animal research has contributed significantly to medical breakthroughs in the past. Many life-saving treatments and vaccines were developed through animal testing, potentially saving millions of human lives. Proponents argue that the complexity of living systems cannot be fully replicated in computer models or cell cultures, making animal testing a necessary step in drug development and medical research.
However, the ethical cost of such practices is too high to justify their continued widespread use. Animals, like humans, are sentient beings capable of experiencing pain and suffering. Subjecting them to potentially harmful experiments for human benefit raises serious moral questions about our responsibility towards other species. Furthermore, the stress and unnatural conditions of laboratory environments can significantly impact animal behavior and physiology, potentially skewing research results.
Moreover, recent advancements in technology have provided alternatives that can often replace animal testing. Organ-on-a-chip technology, computer simulations, and human cell cultures are increasingly sophisticated and can provide more accurate, human-relevant data in many cases. These methods not only avoid ethical concerns but can also be more cost-effective and efficient in the long run.
In conclusion, while the historical contributions of animal testing to medical science are undeniable, I strongly believe that the ethical considerations and available alternatives outweigh the potential benefits. Instead of relying on animal testing, we should focus on developing and improving alternative research methods that are both scientifically sound and ethically responsible. This approach would not only spare animals from unnecessary suffering but could also lead to more accurate and applicable results for human health.
(Word count: 309)
Explanation of Band 8 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 8 response:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a fully developed response.
- 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 accuracy.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used flexibly and accurately. Errors are rare and difficult to spot.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
The use of animals in medical research is a controversial topic that has both supporters and critics. While some people believe it is necessary for scientific progress, others argue it is unethical. In my opinion, animal testing can be acceptable in certain situations, but it should be strictly regulated and minimized whenever possible.
On one hand, animal testing has played a crucial role in many medical breakthroughs. Many life-saving treatments and medicines were developed through experiments on animals. For example, insulin for diabetes was first discovered through research on dogs. These advancements have saved countless human lives and improved the quality of life for many people.
However, there are serious ethical concerns about using animals for research. Animals can suffer pain and distress during experiments, which raises questions about animal welfare. Additionally, not all animal tests produce results that are applicable to humans, which means some animals may suffer unnecessarily.
I believe that a balanced approach is necessary. While animal testing should not be completely banned, it should be used only when absolutely necessary and when no other alternatives are available. Scientists should prioritize developing alternative research methods, such as computer simulations or cell cultures, which can often provide accurate results without harming animals.
When animal testing is conducted, it should follow strict ethical guidelines. This includes minimizing animal suffering, using the smallest number of animals possible, and ensuring that the potential benefits of the research outweigh the ethical costs.
In conclusion, while animal testing has contributed to important medical advancements, we should strive to reduce its use and develop more ethical alternatives. By balancing scientific progress with ethical considerations, we can continue to make medical breakthroughs while respecting the welfare of animals.
(Word count: 287)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with some development.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs may be better connected.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used, with some flexibility and precision. There may be occasional errors in word choice or spelling.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/: Causing or likely to cause disagreement; controversial.
- Ethicist (noun) /ˈeθəsɪst/: A person who specializes in or writes about moral principles and problems.
- Sentient (adjective) /ˈsenʃənt/: Able to perceive or feel things.
- Skew (verb) /skjuː/: Make biased or distorted in a way that is regarded as inaccurate, unfair, or misleading.
- Organ-on-a-chip (noun) /ˈɔːɡən ɒn ə tʃɪp/: A multi-channel 3-D microfluidic cell culture chip that simulates the activities, mechanics and physiological response of entire organs and organ systems.
- Breakthrough (noun) /ˈbreɪkθruː/: A sudden, dramatic, and important discovery or development.
- Welfare (noun) /ˈwelfeə(r)/: The health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group.
- Prioritize (verb) /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/: Designate or treat (something) as more important than other things.
- Outweigh (verb) /aʊtˈweɪ/: Be heavier, greater, or more significant than.
- Applicable (adjective) /əˈplɪkəbl/: Relevant or appropriate.
Conclusion
The ethics of scientific research, particularly involving living subjects, remains a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. While our sample essays focused on animal testing, the principles discussed can be applied to various ethical debates in science, including stem cell research and genetic engineering.
For future practice, consider these potential questions:
- Some people believe that all scientific research should be funded by governments rather than private companies. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
- The rapid pace of scientific advancement often outpaces the development of ethical guidelines. Discuss the potential consequences of this and suggest solutions.
- In your opinion, should there be any limits on scientific research? Why or why not?
We encourage you to practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Remember to apply the structures and vocabulary from our sample essays to enhance your own writing.