IELTS Writing Task 2: Space Travel Problem-Solution Band 9 Answers
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Prompt
Problem: Human activities in space have led to a significant increase in space debris, which poses risks to operational satellites and future space missions. Solution: What measures can be taken to address this issue?
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answers
Band 6.0 Answer
Space debris is becoming a big problem because there is so much junk floating around in space. This is dangerous because it can hit satellites and make them stop working. Also, it makes it harder for new rockets to go into space without crashing.
To fix this problem, we should have better ways to clean up space. For example, using special robots that can catch and remove debris. Another idea is to make rules that tell countries they must take back their old satellites when they stop working. This would stop more junk from piling up.
In conclusion, space debris is a serious issue, but if we take action now, we can make space safer for the future.
Scoring Breakdown:
- TR (Task Response): 5 - Presents a position but with limited development of ideas
- CC (Coherence & Cohesion): 6 - Uses some cohesive devices but with some inaccuracies
- LR (Lexical Resource): 5 - Limited range of vocabulary with some errors
- GRA (Grammatical Range & Accuracy): 6 - Some complex sentence forms but with frequent errors
Band 7.0 Answer
The accumulation of space debris poses a significant threat to both operational satellites and future space exploration missions. The primary concern is that collisions with this debris could cause severe damage to active satellites, disrupting vital communication and navigation systems.
To mitigate this issue, several measures could be implemented. Firstly, international collaboration should be strengthened to establish and enforce clear guidelines for satellite disposal. Countries should be required to de-orbit their satellites at the end of their operational life, thereby reducing the amount of debris in orbit. Secondly, technological solutions such as debris-removal systems should be developed and deployed. For instance, harpoons and nets could be used to capture and remove larger pieces of debris from orbit.
In conclusion, addressing the issue of space debris requires a combination of regulatory measures and technological innovations. By taking proactive steps, we can ensure the long-term sustainability of space activities.
Scoring Breakdown:
- TR (Task Response): 7 - Presents a clear position with some extension and support
- CC (Coherence & Cohesion): 7 - Uses cohesive devices effectively but with some overuse
- LR (Lexical Resource): 7 - Uses a mix of simple and complex vocabulary with some errors
- GRA (Grammatical Range & Accuracy): 7 - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with some errors
Band 8.0 Answer
The proliferation of space debris, a byproduct of human activities in space, has become an increasingly pressing concern. This debris, composed of defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and other fragments, not only threatens operational satellites but also jeopardizes the safety of future space missions.
To tackle this multifaceted issue, a two-pronged approach is essential. Firstly, preventive measures must be prioritized. This includes the implementation of stringent international regulations that mandate the de-orbiting of satellites at the end of their operational life. Additionally, satellite designers should be encouraged to incorporate features that facilitate the eventual removal of their creations from orbit. Secondly, active debris removal (ADR) technologies should be developed and deployed. Innovative solutions such as laser ablation, electrodynamic tethers, and robotic arms could be employed to capture and de-orbit larger pieces of debris.
In conclusion, addressing the space debris issue requires a combination of proactive regulation and cutting-edge technology. By taking decisive action, we can preserve the space environment for future generations.
Scoring Breakdown:
- TR (Task Response): 8 - Presents a clear position with fully extended and supported ideas
- CC (Coherence & Cohesion): 8 - Uses cohesive devices skillfully to guide the reader
- LR (Lexical Resource): 8 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items
- GRA (Grammatical Range & Accuracy): 8 - Uses a wide range of complex sentence forms with occasional errors
Band 9.0 Answer
The escalating problem of space debris, a direct consequence of anthropogenic activities in the cosmos, has reached a critical juncture. This anthropogenic detritus, encompassing non-functional satellites, spent rocket stages, and assorted fragments, not only poses an imminent threat to operational satellites but also imperils the viability of future space endeavors.
To ameliorate this complex issue, a multifaceted strategy is imperative. Firstly, a robust international regulatory framework must be established to govern the end-of-life disposal of satellites. This should include mandatory de-orbiting protocols, as well as incentives for satellite designers to incorporate end-of-life disposal features into their creations. Secondly, substantial investments should be made in active debris removal (ADR) technologies. Cutting-edge solutions such as laser-based removal systems, electrodynamic tethers, and autonomous robotic capture mechanisms could be employed to mitigate the debris population. Moreover, the development of in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) technologies could reduce the need for launches, thereby minimizing the generation of new debris.
In conclusion, addressing the space debris conundrum necessitates a synergistic approach that combines proactive regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation. By taking decisive and concerted action, we can ensure the long-term sustainability of human activities in space.
Scoring Breakdown:
- TR (Task Response): 9 - Presents a fully developed position with relevant, extended, and supported ideas
- CC (Coherence & Cohesion): 9 - Uses cohesive devices skillfully to guide the reader through the response
- LR (Lexical Resource): 9 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with full flexibility and precision
- GRA (Grammatical Range & Accuracy): 9 - Uses a wide range of complex sentence forms with rare errors
Vocabulary Highlights
- Proliferation (noun) - Rapid increase in the number or amount of something
- Example: The proliferation of space debris poses a significant threat to operational satellites.
- Mitigate (verb) - Make less severe, serious, or painful
- Example: To mitigate this issue, several measures could be implemented.
- Anthropogenic (adjective) - Resulting from or produced by human beings
- Example: The escalating problem of space debris, a direct consequence of anthropogenic activities in the cosmos.
- Imperil (verb) - Put at risk of harm or damage
- Example: This anthropogenic detritus... imperils the viability of future space endeavors.
- Ameliorate (verb) - Make (something bad or unsatisfactory) better
- Example: To ameliorate this complex issue, a multifaceted strategy is imperative.
- Robust (adjective) - Strong and healthy; vigorous
- Example: A robust international regulatory framework must be established.
- Imperative (adjective) - Of vital importance; crucial
- Example: A multifaceted strategy is imperative.
- Synergistic (adjective) - Involving the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects
- Example: A synergistic approach that combines proactive regulation, technological innovation, and international cooperation.
- De-orbiting (noun) - The process of lowering the orbit of a satellite or other object in space so that it will eventually re-enter the Earth's atmosphere and burn up
- Example: Mandatory de-orbiting protocols should be established.
- Cutting-edge (adjective) - Very modern and advanced; using the latest ideas or methods
- Example: Cutting-edge solutions such as laser-based removal systems.
- Autonomous (adjective) - Having the freedom to act independently
- Example: Autonomous robotic capture mechanisms could be employed.
- Concerted (adjective) - Done or arranged by people acting together
- Example: By taking decisive and concerted action, we can ensure the long-term sustainability of human activities in space.
- Detritus (noun) - Waste or debris of any kind
- Example: This anthropogenic detritus... imperils the viability of future space endeavors.
- Viability (noun) - The ability to be done or carried out successfully
- Example: Imperils the viability of future space endeavors.
- In-situ (adverb) - In the original place; on the spot
- Example: The development of in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) technologies.
Common Mistakes
- Vague Statements: Avoid generalizations without specific examples. Instead of saying "Space debris is bad," explain why and how it is bad with specific examples.
- Lack of Task Achievement: Ensure that you address both the problem and the solution in your essay. Failing to do so will result in a lower score for Task Response.
- Poor Cohesion: Use cohesive devices to guide the reader through your essay. Avoid abrupt transitions between ideas.
- Inaccurate Vocabulary: Ensure that you use the correct vocabulary. Using the wrong word can confuse the reader and lower your score for Lexical Resource.
- Grammatical Errors: Proofread your essay for grammatical errors. Frequent errors will lower your score for Grammatical Range and Accuracy.
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