Climate change is a pressing global issue that has become increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. The role of science in addressing this challenge is a particularly important aspect that candidates may encounter in their exams. Based on analysis of past IELTS questions and current environmental trends, it’s highly likely that this topic will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that scientific research should focus on preventing and solving environmental problems. Others think that there are more urgent priorities for scientific research. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question addresses the crucial debate about prioritizing scientific research for environmental issues versus other pressing matters. It’s an excellent example of how the role of science in climate change is incorporated into IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.
Analyzing the Question
The question presents two contrasting viewpoints:
- Scientific research should prioritize environmental problems.
- There are more urgent priorities for scientific research.
To effectively answer this question, candidates must:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Provide supporting arguments for each view
- Present their own opinion
- Use relevant examples and explanations
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high band score (8-9) essay.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Scientific research plays a pivotal role in addressing global challenges, and there is ongoing debate about where to focus these efforts. While some argue that environmental issues should be the primary focus, others believe there are more pressing matters that require scientific attention. In my opinion, while environmental research is crucial, a balanced approach addressing multiple priorities is essential for global progress.
Those who advocate for prioritizing environmental research argue that the health of our planet is fundamental to all other aspects of human existence. Climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss pose existential threats that, if left unchecked, could render other scientific pursuits irrelevant. For instance, advancements in renewable energy technologies and carbon capture methods are critical for mitigating global warming. Moreover, research into sustainable agriculture and water conservation is essential for ensuring food and water security in a changing climate.
On the other hand, proponents of diversifying scientific focus argue that other global challenges require equal attention. Medical research, for example, is crucial for combating diseases and improving global health. The recent COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of rapid scientific responses to public health crises. Additionally, research in artificial intelligence and quantum computing could revolutionize various sectors, potentially offering solutions to environmental problems indirectly.
In my view, a balanced approach is necessary. While environmental research is undeniably important, it should not come at the expense of other critical areas. Science has the capacity to address multiple challenges simultaneously, and often breakthroughs in one field can have unexpected benefits in others. For example, advancements in AI could enhance climate modeling and predict environmental changes more accurately.
In conclusion, while environmental research is crucial, scientific efforts should be distributed across various pressing issues. A holistic approach to scientific research ensures that we are equipped to face the multifaceted challenges of the 21st century, including but not limited to environmental concerns.
(Word count: 309)
Scientists conducting environmental research
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
There is a debate about where scientific research should focus. Some people think it should mainly look at environmental problems, while others believe there are more important things to study. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support environmental research say it’s very important because our planet is in danger. Climate change is causing many problems like extreme weather and rising sea levels. If we don’t solve these issues, it could be very bad for everyone. Scientists can help by finding ways to reduce pollution and protect nature. For example, they can develop better renewable energy or find ways to clean the oceans.
On the other hand, some people think there are more urgent things for science to study. They might say that medical research is more important because it can save lives directly. Finding cures for diseases like cancer or Alzheimer’s could help millions of people. Also, research in technology could make our lives easier and solve many problems, including some environmental ones.
In my opinion, both types of research are important. We shouldn’t focus only on the environment and ignore other problems. But we also can’t forget about the environment because it affects everything else. I think scientists should try to balance their work between different areas.
To conclude, while environmental research is very important, science should also focus on other urgent issues. A balanced approach in scientific research is the best way to solve the world’s problems.
(Word count: 253)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Scientific research is very important for solving problems. Some people think it should focus on environmental problems, but others think there are more important things. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
People who think science should focus on the environment say it’s very important because the Earth is in trouble. Climate change is making many problems like very hot weather and floods. Scientists can help by finding ways to stop pollution and protect nature. For example, they can make better solar panels or electric cars.
But other people think there are more important things for science to study. They might say that medical research is more important because it can help sick people. Finding new medicines for diseases like cancer can save many lives. Also, research in computers and technology can make our lives better and maybe help the environment too.
I think both kinds of research are important. We need to study the environment, but we also need to study other things. Scientists should try to do both. Maybe they can find ways to help the environment and solve other problems at the same time.
In conclusion, I think science should study environmental problems and other important things too. This way, we can solve many different problems in the world.
(Word count: 204)
Scientists collaborating on diverse research projects
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with well-developed ideas and a clear position throughout.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Uses a range of cohesive devices effectively.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy.
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally arranged coherently, and there is a clear overall progression.
- Lexical Resource: Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task with some attempts at less common vocabulary.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with generally good control.
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses the task only partially, with limited development of ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Presents information with some organization but may lack overall progression.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a limited range of structures with some attempts at complex sentences.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Climate change (noun) – /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/ – Long-term alterations in temperature and typical weather patterns.
Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.
Renewable energy (noun phrase) – /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used.
Carbon capture (noun phrase) – /ˈkɑːbən ˈkæptʃə/ – The process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Artificial intelligence (noun phrase) – /ˌɑːtɪˈfɪʃl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – The simulation of human intelligence in machines.
Holistic (adjective) – /həˈlɪstɪk/ – Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected.
Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features.
In conclusion, the role of science in addressing climate change is a crucial topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Candidates should be prepared to discuss various aspects of environmental research, its importance, and how it relates to other scientific priorities. To practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones such as “Should there be a global initiative to address climate change?” or “the role of science in solving global environmental challenges”. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further discussion.