IELTS Writing Task 2: Genetic Engineering (Two Part Question) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

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The Prompt

Paraphrased Prompt: Some people believe that genetic engineering will have more negative consequences than positive ones. Others argue that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. To what extent do you agree or disagree? What measures should be taken to ensure the safe use of genetic engineering?

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

Sample Answer:

Genetic engineering is a controversial topic with many people believing it will cause more harm than good. I agree with this view because it can lead to unforeseen consequences. For example, modifying crops may create new allergens or reduce biodiversity. Additionally, designing babies for specific traits could exacerbate social inequalities. To prevent these issues, governments should implement strict regulations and conduct thorough risk assessments before approving any genetic modifications.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): Addresses the task but with a limited position. Only one part of the question is fully addressed.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are presented but lack clear progression. There is some use of cohesive devices, but they are often repetitive.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a mix of appropriate and inaccurate vocabulary. Some word choice is repetitive.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Contains frequent grammatical errors and punctuation issues. Sentence structures are simple and repetitive.

Band 7.0 Answer

Sample Answer:

The debate surrounding genetic engineering centers on whether its benefits surpass the potential risks. I firmly believe that the advantages, such as disease treatment and improved crop yields, outweigh the drawbacks. For instance, gene therapy has shown promise in curing genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis. However, ethical concerns about designer babies and environmental impacts must be addressed. To ensure safety, international cooperation and public education are essential. Governments should establish ethical guidelines and invest in research to monitor long-term effects.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with relevant, extended arguments. Both parts of the question are addressed, though one part is more developed.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Cohesive devices are used effectively.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items. Some word choice is repetitive.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Some grammatical errors are present but do not impede understanding.

Band 8.0 Answer

Sample Answer:

Genetic engineering presents a double-edged sword, offering immense potential benefits while posing significant risks. I contend that the benefits, such as eradicating genetic diseases and enhancing food security, outweigh the risks. For example, CRISPR technology has revolutionized the treatment of sickle cell anemia. However, the ethical implications of modifying human embryos and the potential for unintended environmental consequences cannot be ignored. To mitigate these risks, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Governments should enforce stringent regulations, while scientists must prioritize ethical considerations. Public awareness campaigns can also ensure that society understands the implications of genetic engineering.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with relevant, extended, and supported arguments. Both parts of the question are addressed equally.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Cohesive devices are used effectively and varied.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items. Word choice is precise and varied.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Some grammatical errors are present but are not frequent enough to impede understanding.

Band 9.0 Answer

Sample Answer:

The advent of genetic engineering has sparked a contentious debate regarding its potential benefits and drawbacks. I assert that the advantages, such as the eradication of genetic disorders and the enhancement of agricultural productivity, far outweigh the risks. For instance, gene editing has successfully treated conditions like Huntington's disease. However, the ethical dilemmas surrounding human genetic modification and the ecological impact of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) demand careful consideration. To ensure the responsible use of genetic engineering, a comprehensive strategy is essential. Governments should implement robust regulatory frameworks, while scientists must adhere to ethical guidelines. Public engagement and education are also crucial to fostering informed debate and consensus.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear, informed, and supported position. Both parts of the question are addressed equally with relevant, extended, and supported arguments.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Cohesive devices are used effectively and varied.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with less common lexical items. Word choice is precise and sophisticated.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Grammatical errors are rare and do not impede understanding.

Key Vocabulary

1. Controversial (adj.) - Debatable or disputed; likely to cause disagreement.

• Example: The topic of genetic engineering is highly controversial.

1. Unforeseen (adj.) - Not anticipated or expected.

• Example: Genetic modifications can have unforeseen consequences.

1. Exacerbate (v.) - To make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse.

• Example: Designer babies could exacerbate social inequalities.

1. Implement (v.) - To put a plan, law, or system into effect.

• Example: Governments should implement strict regulations.

1. Ethical (adj.) - Relating to moral principles or the science of morality.

• Example: Ethical concerns about designer babies must be addressed.

1. Cooperation (n.) - The action of working together to the same end.

• Example: International cooperation is essential for safety.

1. Eradicate (v.) - To destroy completely; put an end to.

• Example: Gene therapy can eradicate genetic disorders.

1. Enhance (v.) - To increase or improve in value, quality, or extent.

• Example: Genetic engineering can enhance food security.

1. Revolutionized (v.) - To change something radically or completely.

• Example: CRISPR technology has revolutionized disease treatment.

1. Mitigate (v.) - To make less severe, serious, or painful.

• Example: A multi-faceted approach can mitigate risks.

1. Stringent (adj.) - Strict, precise, and exacting.

• Example: Governments should enforce stringent regulations.

1. Prioritize (v.) - To arrange or deal with things in order of importance.

• Example: Scientists must prioritize ethical considerations.

1. Campaign (n.) - A planned series of activities designed to achieve a particular result.

• Example: Public awareness campaigns can educate society.

1. Implications (n.) - The consequences of an action or decision.

• Example: Society must understand the implications of genetic engineering.

1. Comprehensive (adj.) - Including all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.

• Example: A comprehensive strategy is necessary for responsible use.

1. Robust (adj.) - Strong and sturdy in construction; durable.

• Example: Governments should implement robust regulatory frameworks.

1. Adhere (v.) - To stick fast to a surface; be held fast.

• Example: Scientists must adhere to ethical guidelines.

1. Engagement (n.) - The act of engaging or being engaged.

• Example: Public engagement is crucial for informed debate.

1. Foster (v.) - To encourage the development of something.

• Example: Education can foster informed debate and consensus.

1. Consensus (n.) - A general agreement or collective opinion.

• Example: Informed debate can lead to consensus.

Common Mistakes

1. Ignoring One Part of the Question: Many students focus solely on the first part of the question and neglect the second part, leading to an unbalanced response.

1. Lack of Specific Examples: Students often make general statements without providing concrete examples to support their arguments.

1. Poor Vocabulary Choice: Using repetitive or inaccurate vocabulary can lower the Lexical Resource score.

1. Grammatical Errors: Frequent grammatical mistakes can impede understanding and lower the Grammatical Range and Accuracy score.

1. Weak Coherence and Cohesion: Poor organization and lack of clear progression between ideas can result in a lower Coherence and Cohesion score.

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