IELTS Writing Task 2
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Tutorial
When tackling an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay question, you must first understand the question thoroughly. The question asks about your opinion on the investment in researching other planets, such as Mars.
Essay Outline
The optimal essay outline would be as follows:
- Introduction: Paraphrase the question and state your position clearly.
- Body Paragraph 1: Present the first reason to support your position.
- Body Paragraph 2: Present the second reason to support your position.
- Conclusion: Summarize your ideas and restate your position.
The reason this structure works effectively is that it allows you to develop your ideas sufficiently, providing clear arguments and examples, while also presenting a cohesive argument.
IELTS Task 2 High-Scoring Sample Answer
As humanity's existence on Earth becomes increasingly precarious, many argue that investing in the exploration of other planets, such as Mars, should be a priority in our budget allocation. I wholeheartedly concur with this view, believing that this focus can offer long-term survival benefits and stimulate scientific advancement.
The first compelling reason for planetary research is the potential for human habitation. With the escalating threats of climate change, depleting resources, and overpopulation, Earth's carrying capacity is being strained to its limits. Exploring Mars, with its Earth-like characteristics, could potentially offer a viable alternative for future generations. Researching and developing technologies for interplanetary living could be instrumental in ensuring humanity's survival.
Secondly, investing in space exploration invariably fuels scientific innovation. The space race of the 20th century accelerated technology development, leading to breakthroughs that have permeated almost every facet of our lives, from satellite navigation to memory foam. Therefore, a focus on Mars could similarly drive the next wave of technological advancements, with potentially transformative effects on our society.
In conclusion, directing resources toward the exploration of Mars and other planets is a wise investment. Not only may it provide a 'Plan B' for human survival, but it can also catalyze scientific breakthroughs, enhancing our lives in ways currently beyond our imagination. Thus, I firmly believe in the importance of funding such research initiatives.
IELTS Essay Analysis
1. Task Achievement
The essay effectively addresses the prompt, presenting a clear position on the importance of planetary exploration, particularly of Mars. The arguments are well-developed and supported by logical reasoning, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the topic. Hence, it scores highly in this criterion.
Rating: 8.5/10
2. Grammatical Range & Accuracy
The essay displays a wide variety of complex grammatical structures employed accurately. Usage of passive voice, conditionals, relative clauses, and a range of tenses can be seen. A few minor errors are present, but they do not obscure the clarity of arguments. Therefore, it also scores highly in this criterion.
Rating: 8/10
Error Analysis & Corrections
A few minor errors can be identified in the essay.
Error 1:
In the sentencethe correct form should be
Explanation:
The error lies in the inappropriate use of modal verbs 'may' and 'can'. Here, 'can' denotes capability while 'may' refers to possibility.
In the context of the sentence, the capability of providing a 'Plan B' for human survival is more certain than the possibility of catalyzing scientific breakthroughs.
Therefore, the correct sentence should be "Not only can it provide a 'Plan B' for human survival, but it may also catalyze scientific breakthroughs, enhancing our lives in ways currently beyond our imagination."
An example for a clearer understanding: "I can run fast (ability), but I may not win the race (possibility)."
Error 2:
In the sentence
it would be more appropriate to use the phrase
Explanation:
The terms "thus" and "therefore" are often used interchangeably in English. However, they do have slightly different connotations.
- Thus is typically used to indicate the consequence or result of a particular action or decision, and it can sometimes give an impression of immediacy. For example, "It started raining, thus we took shelter."
- Therefore is used to denote a logical conclusion or inference drawn from previous information. It is more formal and often used in academic and professional writing. For example, "It was raining. Therefore, we decided to take shelter."
In the given context, "Therefore" is more appropriate since it draws a conclusion from the arguments provided earlier in the essay.
3. Lexical Resource
The essay demonstrates an excellent vocabulary range with the use of a variety of academic words and phrases. Repetition is minimal, and vocabulary is used precisely and appropriately. Thus, the essay attains a high score in lexical resource.
Rating: 8.5/10
4. Coherence and Cohesion
The essay is logically organized, with clear paragraphing and appropriate use of linking words and cohesive devices. Ideas flow smoothly and are easy to follow, thus scoring highly in coherence and cohesion.
Rating: 8.5/10