Some people think that money spend on technology development for space exploration is unjustified. They believe there are other beneficial ways to spend it.

Practice this IELTS Writing Task 2 question on IELTSX. Some people think that money spend on technology development for space exploration is unjustified. They believe there are other beneficial ways to spend it.

Money spend technology development space exploration unjustified - IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

To what you agree or disagree with this statement?

Write at least 250 words.

A student's answer to this task, and the feedback on it

Written by an IELTSX user under exam conditions and published unedited and anonymously. Band 8 · 290 words.

n recent decades, the debate over whether government funding should be directed toward space exploration or domestic social issues has intensified. While some argue that space programs are an unjustifiable expense in the face of poverty and environmental crises, I believe that space exploration is a crucial investment that yields long-term benefits for humanity.

Admittedly, those who criticize space spending make a valid point regarding the immediate needs of our planet. Critics argue that trillions of dollars spent on rockets and satellites could be better utilized to alleviate hunger, improve healthcare systems, or combat climate change. Given the significant inequality and suffering present in many parts of the world, prioritizing terrestrial problems seems like a moral imperative. From this perspective, focusing on the stars while millions struggle on Earth appears to be a luxury we cannot afford.

However, I strongly disagree with the notion that space exploration is unjustified, as the technology derived from these programs often has revolutionary applications on Earth. Many inventions that we consider essential today—such as advanced GPS navigation, weather forecasting systems, and developments in solar energy technology—were direct byproducts of space research. By pushing the boundaries of engineering and science, space agencies inadvertently solve complex problems here at home. Furthermore, space exploration fosters international cooperation and inspires the next generation of scientists and engineers, which is vital for global progress.

In conclusion, while the ethical concerns about how we distribute global wealth are important, viewing space exploration as a waste of money is shortsighted. The progress achieved through space programs provides tools that are essential for solving the very problems that critics seek to address. Therefore, I believe that funding for space exploration should be maintained, as it is an investment in our collective future.

Examiner feedback

This is a very high-quality response that demonstrates a sophisticated command of English. The arguments are logical, the vocabulary is precise and academic, and the grammatical control is excellent. The essay effectively balances a counter-argument with a strong personal stance, making it a very convincing piece of writing.

Task Response - 8

- The essay sufficiently addresses all parts of the task, discussing both the critics' perspective and the writer's own view. - The position is clear throughout the essay and is well-supported with relevant examples (GPS, solar energy). - Ideas are well-developed, though further expansion on specific "other beneficial ways" could enhance the depth of the first body paragraph.

Coherence & Cohesion - 8

- Information and ideas are sequenced logically with a clear progression from the counter-argument to the writer's stance. - Paragraphing is used effectively, with each paragraph containing a clear central topic. - Cohesive devices like "Admittedly," "However," and "Furthermore" are used naturally to guide the reader.

Lexical Resource - 8

- The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary fluently (e.g., "moral imperative," "terrestrial problems," "revolutionary applications"). - Collocations are natural and sophisticated, conveying precise meanings effectively. - Spelling and word formation are accurate, with only a minor typo in the opening word.

Grammatical Range & Accuracy - 8

- A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. - The majority of sentences are error-free, despite the complex nature of the arguments. - Punctuation is used correctly to enhance meaning and readability throughout.

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