IELTS Writing Task 2: Space Travel Agree Disagree Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers
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The Prompt
Some people believe that space travel is a waste of money and governments should spend this money on more important things. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Model Answers
Band 6.0 Answer
Space travel is very expensive and I think governments should spend money on other things. There are many problems on Earth that need money like poverty and education. Space travel does not help people who are poor or hungry. Also, education is important for the future but many schools do not have enough money. I think we should fix problems on Earth before we spend money on space.
Scoring Breakdown
- Task Response (TR) 5.0: Presents a position but with limited development and some irrelevant points.
- Coherence and Cohesion (CC) 6.0: Ideas are logically organized but with some repetition and lack of clear progression.
- Lexical Resource (LR) 6.0: Uses some appropriate vocabulary but with frequent errors and limited range.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA) 6.0: Attempts complex sentences but with frequent errors and awkward phrasing.
Band 7.0 Answer
I strongly disagree with the notion that space travel is a waste of money. While it is true that there are pressing issues on Earth, such as poverty and education, investing in space travel has numerous benefits. Firstly, space research has led to technological advancements that improve our daily lives, such as satellite technology and medical innovations. Secondly, exploring space can help us find solutions to global problems like climate change and resource depletion. Therefore, governments should continue to fund space travel.
Scoring Breakdown
- Task Response (TR) 7.0: Presents a clear position with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion (CC) 7.0: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and appropriate use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource (LR) 7.0: Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items and occasional errors.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA) 7.0: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with frequent errors but minimal hindrance to communication.
Band 8.0 Answer
The debate surrounding the allocation of funds for space travel is multifaceted. While some argue that resources should be directed towards addressing terrestrial issues, I contend that investing in space exploration is not only beneficial but also essential for our future. Proponents of redirecting funds often cite poverty and education as pressing concerns. Undeniably, these issues demand attention; however, space travel has yielded significant returns on investment. For instance, satellite technology has revolutionized communication and navigation, while medical research conducted in microgravity has led to breakthroughs in treating diseases. Furthermore, space exploration drives innovation and inspires future generations to pursue careers in STEM fields, thereby addressing educational challenges indirectly. Thus, a balanced approach that addresses both terrestrial and extraterrestrial priorities is optimal.
Scoring Breakdown
- Task Response (TR) 8.0: Presents a clear position with fully extended and supported ideas, and a clear conclusion.
- Coherence and Cohesion (CC) 8.0: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and effective use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource (LR) 8.0: Uses a wide range of vocabulary with less common lexical items and some sophisticated vocabulary, with only occasional errors.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA) 8.0: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with frequent error-free sentences and minimal errors that do not impede communication.
Band 9.0 Answer
The contention that space travel is an exorbitant waste of resources, which could be more judiciously allocated to rectify terrestrial predicaments, is a contentious issue that warrants a nuanced examination. While it is incontrovertible that global challenges such as poverty and education demand immediate attention, I posit that the benefits of space exploration far outweigh the costs, and that a cessation of such endeavors would be shortsighted. The technological spin-offs from space research have permeated various facets of our lives, from meteorological forecasting to global positioning systems, thereby enhancing our quality of life. Moreover, the quest for extraterrestrial resources could alleviate the burgeoning pressure on Earth's finite reserves. Additionally, the inspirational value of space exploration cannot be overstated, as it ignites the imagination of future scientists and engineers, thereby fostering a culture of innovation. Therefore, a balanced approach that addresses both terrestrial and celestial priorities is not only prudent but also indispensable for our collective future.
Scoring Breakdown
- Task Response (TR) 9.0: Presents a clear position with fully extended and supported ideas, and a clear conclusion with a nuanced perspective.
- Coherence and Cohesion (CC) 9.0: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and effective use of cohesive devices, creating a clear and smooth flow of ideas.
- Lexical Resource (LR) 9.0: Uses a wide range of vocabulary with less common lexical items and sophisticated vocabulary, with only rare errors.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA) 9.0: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with frequent error-free sentences and minimal errors that do not impede communication, and uses a variety of complex structures with flexibility and precision.
Key Vocabulary
- Exorbitant (adjective): Extremely high or excessive.
- Example: The exorbitant cost of space travel is a contentious issue.
- Judiciously (adverb): In a careful and thoughtful manner.
- Example: Resources should be judiciously allocated to address pressing issues.
- Incontrovertible (adjective): Impossible to deny or dispute.
- Example: It is incontrovertible that global challenges demand immediate attention.
- Spin-offs (noun): Secondary developments or applications of a technology or innovation.
- Example: The technological spin-offs from space research have enhanced our quality of life.
- Burgeoning (adjective): Growing or developing rapidly.
- Example: The burgeoning pressure on Earth's finite resources is a pressing concern.
- Inspirational (adjective): Providing or arousing inspiration.
- Example: The inspirational value of space exploration cannot be overstated.
- Nuanced (adjective): Characterized by subtle distinctions or shades of meaning.
- Example: A nuanced examination of the issue reveals its complexity.
- Prudent (adjective): Acting with or showing care and thought for the future.
- Example: A prudent approach addresses both terrestrial and celestial priorities.
- Indispensable (adjective): Absolutely necessary.
- Example: A balanced approach is indispensable for our collective future.
- Contentious (adjective): Causing or likely to cause an argument; controversial.
- Example: The contentious issue of space travel funding requires careful consideration.
- Allocation (noun): The action or process of distributing resources.
- Example: The allocation of funds for space travel is a debated topic.
- Rectify (verb): To put or set right; correct.
- Example: Resources should be allocated to rectify terrestrial predicaments.
- Predicaments (noun): Difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situations.
- Example: Global challenges such as poverty and education are pressing predicaments.
- Permeated (verb): Spread throughout; permeate.
- Example: Technological spin-offs have permeated various facets of our lives.
- Meteorological (adjective): Relating to meteorology; atmospheric.
- Example: Satellite technology has revolutionized meteorological forecasting.
- Extraterrestrial (adjective): Originating, occurring, or existing outside the Earth or its atmosphere.
- Example: The quest for extraterrestrial resources could alleviate pressure on Earth's reserves.
- Burgeoning (adjective): Growing or developing rapidly.
- Example: The burgeoning pressure on Earth's finite resources is a pressing concern.
- Inspirational (adjective): Providing or arousing inspiration.
- Example: The inspirational value of space exploration cannot be overstated.
- Nuanced (adjective): Characterized by subtle distinctions or shades of meaning.
- Example: A nuanced examination of the issue reveals its complexity.
- Prudent (adjective): Acting with or showing care and thought for the future.
- Example: A prudent approach addresses both terrestrial and celestial priorities.
- Indispensable (adjective): Absolutely necessary.
- Example: A balanced approach is indispensable for our collective future.
- Contentious (adjective): Causing or likely to cause an argument; controversial.
- Example: The contentious issue of space travel funding requires careful consideration.
- Allocation (noun): The action or process of distributing resources.
- Example: The allocation of funds for space travel is a debated topic.
- Rectify (verb): To put or set right; correct.
- Example: Resources should be allocated to rectify terrestrial predicaments.
- Predicaments (noun): Difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situations.
- Example: Global challenges such as poverty and education are pressing predicaments.
Common Mistakes
- Vague Language: Using general statements without specific examples or details.
- Lack of Clear Position: Failing to clearly state whether you agree or disagree with the statement.
- Poor Organization: Not structuring the essay with clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Repetition: Repeating the same ideas or phrases without adding new information.
- Grammatical Errors: Making frequent grammatical mistakes that hinder communication.
- Inadequate Vocabulary: Using limited vocabulary range, resulting in repetitive or simplistic language.
- Lack of Cohesion: Failing to use cohesive devices effectively, leading to disjointed ideas.
- Off-Topic Discussions: Introducing irrelevant points that do not address the prompt.
- Overgeneralization: Making sweeping statements without considering nuances or exceptions.
- Poor Time Management: Spending too much time on one part of the essay, leading to rushed or incomplete sections.
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