The topic of innovation’s role in addressing global health issues has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on recent trends and the growing importance of this subject, it’s likely to appear more frequently in future exams. Let’s examine a relevant question that reflects this theme:
Some people believe that technological innovations are the best way to solve global health problems. Others think there are more effective alternatives. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that technological innovations are the best solution for global health issues
- Explore alternative approaches to solving these problems
- Provide a personal opinion on which view is more effective
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your stance.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Advancements in technology have undoubtedly played a significant role in tackling global health challenges. However, some argue that other approaches may be more effective. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on this matter.
Proponents of technological innovation argue that it has the potential to revolutionize healthcare on a global scale. Cutting-edge medical technologies, such as AI-powered diagnostic tools and telemedicine platforms, can dramatically improve access to healthcare in remote areas. Moreover, breakthroughs in biotechnology have led to the development of novel treatments and vaccines, which have been instrumental in combating previously untreatable diseases. For instance, the rapid development of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies how technological innovation can address urgent global health crises.
On the other hand, those who favor alternative approaches contend that technology alone cannot solve all health problems. They argue that addressing social determinants of health, such as poverty, education, and access to clean water and nutrition, is equally crucial. Implementing comprehensive public health policies and improving healthcare infrastructure in developing countries can have a more profound and sustainable impact on global health outcomes. Additionally, promoting health education and preventive measures may be more cost-effective and accessible in resource-limited settings.
In my opinion, while technological innovations are invaluable in advancing global health, they should be complemented by other strategies to achieve optimal results. A holistic approach that combines cutting-edge medical technologies with improvements in social conditions and healthcare systems is likely to be most effective. For example, integrating mobile health applications with community-based health programs can leverage the benefits of both technological and traditional approaches.
In conclusion, addressing global health issues requires a multifaceted strategy. While technological innovations offer powerful tools, they should be implemented alongside other effective measures to create comprehensive and sustainable solutions for global health challenges.
(Word count: 298)
Technological innovation in healthcare
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, technology has made big improvements in solving health problems around the world. However, some people think there are better ways to deal with these issues. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
Many people believe that new technology is the best way to fix global health problems. Modern inventions like better medical equipment and new medicines can help treat more diseases. For example, computers can now help doctors find illnesses faster and more accurately. Also, the internet allows doctors to help patients in far-away places through video calls. These things have made healthcare better for many people around the world.
On the other hand, some people think there are more effective ways to improve global health. They say that we should focus on basic things like clean water, good food, and education about health. These things can stop people from getting sick in the first place. Also, training more doctors and nurses and building more hospitals in poor countries can help more people get the care they need. These methods might be cheaper and easier to do in some places than using expensive new technology.
In my opinion, both technology and other methods are important for solving global health problems. We need new inventions to find cures and treatments for diseases, but we also need to make sure everyone has access to basic healthcare and a healthy lifestyle. I think the best approach is to use both new technology and traditional methods together.
To conclude, while technology is very helpful in improving global health, it’s not the only solution. We should use a mix of new inventions and other effective methods to make sure everyone in the world can be healthy.
(Word count: 282)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, a paragraph stating the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion.
Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases, such as “cutting-edge medical technologies,” “social determinants of health,” and “multifaceted strategy.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively conveys the main ideas.
Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentence structures, while the lower band essay uses simpler constructions but maintains grammatical accuracy.
Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas and ensure a logical flow of information.
Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more nuanced analysis.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
- Technological innovation (noun) /ˌtek.nəˈlɒdʒ.ɪ.kəl ˌɪn.əˈveɪ.ʃən/ – The process of developing and introducing new technologies
- Global health (noun) /ˈɡləʊ.bəl helθ/ – The health of populations worldwide
- Telemedicine (noun) /ˌtel.ɪˈmed.ɪ.sɪn/ – The practice of providing medical care remotely using technology
- Social determinants of health (noun) /ˈsəʊ.ʃəl dɪˈtɜː.mɪ.nənts əv helθ/ – Social and economic factors that influence health outcomes
- Holistic approach (noun) /həˈlɪs.tɪk əˈprəʊtʃ/ – A method that considers all aspects of a problem or situation
- Sustainable solutions (noun) /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl səˈluː.ʃənz/ – Solutions that can be maintained over the long term without depleting resources
- Healthcare infrastructure (noun) /ˈhelθ.keər ˈɪn.frə.strʌk.tʃər/ – The basic physical and organizational structures needed for healthcare delivery
- Preventive measures (noun) /prɪˈven.tɪv ˈmeʒ.əz/ – Actions taken to prevent health problems before they occur
- Resource-limited settings (noun) /rɪˈzɔːs ˈlɪm.ɪ.tɪd ˈset.ɪŋz/ – Areas with limited access to healthcare resources and facilities
- Multifaceted strategy (noun) /ˌmʌl.tiˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd ˈstræt.ə.dʒi/ – An approach that considers multiple aspects or viewpoints
In conclusion, the role of innovation in addressing global health issues is a complex and multifaceted topic that requires careful consideration of various perspectives. While technological advancements offer powerful tools for improving healthcare worldwide, it’s essential to recognize the importance of complementary approaches that address underlying social and economic factors.
To further practice your writing skills on this topic, consider exploring related questions such as:
- How can developing countries balance the need for advanced medical technologies with the provision of basic healthcare services?
- Discuss the ethical implications of using artificial intelligence in global health decision-making.
- To what extent should governments invest in medical research versus improving public health infrastructure?
We encourage you to write your own essay on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and receive feedback from fellow learners. Remember to apply the strategies and vocabulary discussed in this article to enhance your essay’s quality.
For more insights on related topics, you may find these articles helpful: