Renewable energy research has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and the global focus on sustainable development, it’s highly likely that questions about government funding for renewable energy research will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore this topic in depth, providing you with high-quality sample essays and analysis to help you excel in your IELTS Writing Task 2.

Government funding for renewable energy research

Analyzing the Task 2 Question

Let’s focus on a common question type related to this topic:

Some people believe that governments should invest more money in renewable energy research, while others think that private companies should be responsible for this. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that governments should invest more in renewable energy research
2. Discuss the view that private companies should be responsible for this research
3. Give your own opinion on the matter

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Level

High Band Score Essay

Renewable energy research is a critical field that has significant implications for our planet’s future. While some argue that this responsibility should fall to private companies, others believe that governments should take the lead in funding such research. In my opinion, while both sectors have important roles to play, government investment is crucial for driving progress in this area.

Those who advocate for private sector involvement in renewable energy research often point to the efficiency and innovation that competition can bring. Private companies, driven by profit motives, may be more likely to develop cost-effective solutions quickly. Moreover, they argue that the market should determine which technologies are worth pursuing, rather than government bureaucrats who may lack specialized knowledge.

On the other hand, proponents of government funding highlight the long-term nature and high costs associated with renewable energy research. Governments can invest in projects that may not yield immediate profits but have significant long-term benefits for society as a whole. They can also coordinate large-scale research efforts and ensure that findings are shared openly, promoting faster progress across the field. Additionally, government funding can help level the playing field, allowing smaller companies and researchers to contribute to this crucial area of study.

In my view, while private sector involvement is valuable, government funding is essential for several reasons. Firstly, the urgency of addressing climate change requires a coordinated, large-scale effort that only governments can effectively organize. Secondly, many renewable energy technologies require substantial initial investment before becoming commercially viable, a risk that private companies may be unwilling to take. Finally, government funding can ensure that research priorities align with public interest rather than being solely driven by profit potential.

In conclusion, although private companies have a role to play in renewable energy research, I believe that government funding is crucial for driving progress in this field. A collaborative approach, where governments provide significant funding and create supportive policies, while also encouraging private sector involvement, is likely to yield the best results in our pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.

(Word count: 329)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On the other hand”, “Moreover”, “Firstly”, “Secondly”).

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “implications”, “advocate”, “bureaucrats”, “level the playing field”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional structures).

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with clear reasoning and examples.

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Level

Medium Band Score Essay

Nowadays, renewable energy is becoming more important. Some people think governments should give more money for research in this area, but others believe private companies should do this. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

There are good reasons Why Governments Should Fund Renewable Energy Research. Firstly, governments have more money to spend on big projects. They can invest in long-term research that might not make money quickly. Also, if the government does the research, the results can be shared with everyone, which can help the whole country.

On the other hand, some people think private companies should be responsible for this research. Private companies often work faster and more efficiently because they want to make a profit. They might come up with new ideas more quickly. Also, if private companies do the research, it won’t cost the government any money.

In my opinion, both governments and private companies should be involved in renewable energy research. Governments can provide the main funding and direction, while private companies can contribute their efficiency and innovation. This way, we can get the benefits of both approaches.

To conclude, while there are arguments for both government and private funding of renewable energy research, I believe a combination of both is the best solution. This will help us develop better renewable energy technologies more quickly.

(Word count: 228)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the development of ideas is less extensive than in the Band 8-9 essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (e.g., frequent use of “Also”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but less varied and sophisticated compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, but with less variety than the higher band essay.

5. Development of Ideas: While each main point is supported, the explanations are less detailed and nuanced compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Renewable energy (noun) – /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used
2. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
3. Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – A new method, idea, product, etc.
4. Bureaucrat (noun) – /ˈbjʊərəkræt/ – An official in a government department
5. Viable (adjective) – /ˈvaɪəbəl/ – Capable of working successfully; feasible
6. Coordinate (verb) – /kəʊˈɔːdɪneɪt/ – Bring the different elements of a complex activity or organization into a harmonious or efficient relationship
7. Implications (noun) – /ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃənz/ – The conclusions that can be drawn from something although they are not explicitly stated
8. Level the playing field (idiom) – To create a situation in which everyone has a fair and equal chance of succeeding

Conclusion

Mastering essays on government funding for renewable energy research is crucial for success in IELTS Writing Task 2. By studying these sample essays and understanding the key elements that contribute to different band scores, you can improve your own writing skills. Remember to practice regularly, focusing on addressing all parts of the task, organizing your ideas coherently, using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and developing your ideas with clear reasoning and examples.

For further practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:

• The role of renewable energy in reducing reliance on fossil fuels
• The impact of government policies on the adoption of renewable energy technologies
• The challenges and opportunities in transitioning to a renewable energy-based economy

Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below. This active engagement will help you refine your skills and prepare effectively for your IELTS Writing Task 2 exam.