EN Understanding

IELTS Model Answers

Government Spending on Space Exploration

Academic

Writing Task 2

ScienceSociety

Question

Space agencies receive large amounts of public money. Some people believe this spending is justified by scientific progress, while others think the money should address problems on Earth first. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answer

Space missions have given us satellites for weather and navigation, and they inspire young scientists. But many people are poor or lack hospitals, so they want more spending on social needs. Both sides have a point. In my opinion, we can fund space at a moderate level while still investing more in basic services.

Glossary

space exploration

Scientific investigation and travel beyond Earth's atmosphere.

spin-off technologies

Commercial or practical applications developed originally for another purpose, such as space programmes.

opportunity costs

What you give up when you choose one use of resources instead of another.

I am inclined to believe that

Expresses a tentative but reasoned opinion.

flagship missions

High-profile, large-scale projects that represent an organisation's main goals.

social infrastructure

Institutions and systems that support community wellbeing, such as schools and healthcare.

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