IELTS Writing Task 2: Forecast and practice exercises: #Government #Research #Control

IELTS Forecast Essay Task Question:

Scientific research should be carried out and controlled by the government rather than private companies. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (Government)

Topic Vocabulary Practice Exercises

Exercise 1: Choose the most appropriate word or phrase to complete each sentence.

1. The government plays a crucial role in __________ and directing scientific research efforts in the country.

a) funding

b) financing

c) financing

2. Private companies often prioritize __________ over long-term scientific advancement.

a) profitability

b) revenue

c) sales

3. Government-controlled research ensures that scientific breakthroughs are __________ for the benefit of society as a whole.

a) accessible

b) attainable

c) achievable

4. The government can establish __________ to oversee the ethical aspects of scientific research.

a) regulatory bodies

b) governing institutions

c) legislative committees

5. By taking charge of research funding, the government can __________ certain areas of study that are of national importance.

a) prioritize

b) favor

c) emphasize

6. Private companies are more inclined to __________ research that has immediate commercial applications.

a) conduct

b) pursue

c) engage in

7. The government’s involvement in research helps prevent __________ and ensures fair access to scientific discoveries.

a) monopolies

b) exclusivity

c) domination

8. Government-led research programs can address __________ issues that may not be financially viable for private companies.

a) societal

b) communal

c) public

9. Private companies may be driven by __________ rather than the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake.

a) profit motives

b) financial incentives

c) economic gains

10. The government’s oversight in research helps maintain __________ standards and quality control.

a) rigorous

b) stringent

c) exacting

Answers:

1. c) coordinating
2. a) profitability
3. a) accessible
4. a) regulatory bodies
5. a) prioritize
6. b) pursue
7. a) monopolies
8. a) societal
9. a) profit motives
10. b) stringent

Exercise 2: Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate word or phrase from the given options to complete each sentence.

1. It is argued that the __________ should have a greater role in overseeing and managing scientific research.

a) authorities

b) regulators

c) policymakers

2. The __________ of scientific research lies in the hands of the government to ensure its proper direction and focus.

a) stewardship

b) oversight

c) proprietorship

3. Government-funded research allows for __________ resources, enabling more comprehensive and groundbreaking studies.

a) ample

b) substantial

c) copious

4. Critics argue that placing scientific research solely in the hands of the government may stifle __________ and innovation.

a) creativity

b) ingenuity

c) inventiveness

5. The government’s involvement in research can ensure that scientific findings are __________ to the public and not limited to private interests.

a) disseminated

b) propagated

c) circulated

6. By __________ research activities, the government can allocate resources to address pressing societal issues.

a) centralizing

b) consolidating

c) streamlining

7. __________ research grants and funding from the government can encourage more scientists to pursue critical areas of study.

a) Subsidized

b) Endowed

c) Sponsored

8. Some argue that private companies may prioritize __________ gains over the long-term benefits of scientific advancement.

a) pecuniary

b) monetary

c) fiscal

9. Government control of research can help avoid __________ of scientific discoveries and ensure equitable access to knowledge.

a) monopolization

b) domination

c) exclusivity

10. The government’s involvement in scientific research ensures __________, resulting in high-quality and reliable outcomes.

a) rigor

b) precision

c) meticulousness

Answers:

1. c) policymakers
2. a) stewardship
3. b) substantial
4. a) creativity
5. a) disseminated
6. b) consolidating
7. c) sponsored
8. a) pecuniary
9. a) monopolization
10. a) rigor

Reasoning Practice Exercises

Exercise 1: Match the supporting opinion on the left with the corresponding reason on the right.

Supporting Opinions:

1. Government control ensures equitable access to scientific discoveries.
2. Government funding allows for long-term and comprehensive research.
3. Private companies prioritize profitability over scientific advancement.
4. Government oversight prevents unethical practices in research.
5. Government control ensures research aligns with national priorities.

Reasons:

1. a) Private companies may neglect research that does not offer immediate financial returns.
2. b) Government control prevents monopolies and allows for fair distribution of scientific knowledge.
3. c) Government funding enables researchers to explore complex and long-term scientific inquiries.
4. d) Government oversight ensures adherence to ethical guidelines and protects participants’ rights.
5. e) Government control ensures that research addresses national challenges and goals.

Answers:

The correct matches are as follows:

1. b) Government control ensures equitable access to scientific discoveries.
2. c) Government funding allows for long-term and comprehensive research.
3. a) Private companies prioritize profitability over scientific advancement.
4. d) Government oversight prevents unethical practices in research.
5. e) Government control ensures research aligns with national priorities.

Exercise 2: Match the refuting opinion on the left with the corresponding counterargument on the right.

Refuting Opinions:

1. Government control may hinder innovation and limit scientific discoveries.
2. Government control may lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies in scientific research.
3. Private companies are more efficient in allocating resources for scientific research.
4. Private companies can bring diverse perspectives and foster competition in scientific research.
5. Private companies have the necessary expertise and specialized knowledge for scientific advancements.

Counterarguments:

1. a) Government control ensures strategic allocation of resources based on societal needs.
2. b) Bureaucratic inefficiencies can be minimized through proper regulation and streamlined processes.
3. c) Government-funded research attracts top scientists and fosters collaboration for breakthroughs.
4. d) Government control facilitates long-term investment in research that private companies may not prioritize.
5. e) Private companies often focus on short-term profitability, which may limit exploratory research.

Answers:

The correct matches are as follows:

1. Government control may hinder innovation and limit scientific discoveries. => d. Government control facilitates long-term investment in research that private companies may not prioritize.
2. Government control may lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies in scientific research.=> b. Bureaucratic inefficiencies can be minimized through proper regulation and streamlined processes.
3. Private companies are more efficient in allocating resources for scientific research. => a. Government control ensures strategic allocation of resources based on societal needs.
4. Private companies can bring diverse perspectives and foster competition in scientific research. => e. Private companies often focus on short-term profitability, which may limit exploratory research.
5. Private companies have the necessary expertise and specialized knowledge for scientific advancements. => c. Government-funded research attracts top scientists and fosters collaboration for breakthroughs.

Exercise 3: Instructions: Match the supporting argument on the left with the corresponding specific example or statistic on the right.

Supporting Arguments:

1. Government-funded research promotes scientific breakthroughs that benefit society as a whole.
2. Government control ensures unbiased dissemination of scientific knowledge.
3. Government-led research initiatives can address public health challenges effectively.
4. Government oversight protects research participants’ rights and ensures ethical practices.
5. Government control allows for long-term investment in research with societal impact.

Specific Examples/Statistics:

1. According to a study by XYZ Research Institute, government-funded projects have led to a 30% increase in medical breakthroughs in the past decade.
2. A survey conducted by ABC Organization found that government-controlled research institutes have higher publication rates and wider access to research publications.
3. The government-led initiative to combat infectious diseases resulted in a 40% decrease in mortality rates in the targeted population, as reported by the Ministry of Health.
4. A report from the National Research Ethics Committee highlights that government oversight in research has significantly reduced instances of unethical practices, ensuring participant safety.
5. The government’s long-term investment in renewable energy research has resulted in a 50% increase in clean energy production, as documented by the Department of Energy.

Answers:

The correct matches are as follows: 1-a 2-b, 3-c, 4-d, 5-e

Exercise 4: Match the refuting argument on the left with the corresponding specific example or statistic on the right.

Refuting Arguments:

1. Private companies have a track record of successful scientific research and innovation.
2. Private companies provide more efficient and timely solutions to scientific challenges.
3. Private companies attract top researchers and offer competitive salaries.
4. Government control may lead to bureaucratic delays and hinder scientific progress.
5. Private companies have the financial resources to invest in cutting-edge research facilities.

Specific Examples/Statistics:

1. According to a report by the Innovation Research Foundation, 80% of recent scientific breakthroughs in the field of biotechnology were achieved through collaboration between private companies.
2. A case study of a privately-funded research project in the pharmaceutical industry showed that the development timeline for a life-saving drug was reduced by 50%, compared to similar government-controlled projects.
3. Data from a survey conducted by the Association of Scientific Researchers indicated that 70% of leading scientists prefer to work in private sector research institutes due to higher salaries and better career advancement opportunities.
4. A report published by the Independent Scientific Review Committee highlighted that government-controlled research projects often face bureaucratic hurdles, resulting in delays and hindrances to scientific progress.
5. Financial reports from prominent private companies in the technology sector revealed that they invested over $1 billion in research and development, allowing for the establishment of state-of-the-art laboratories and advanced research facilities.

Answers:

1-a, 2-b, 3-c, 4-d, 5-e

Detailed Outline 1: for IELTS Essay Writing Task 2: Agree

Introduction:

• Introduce scientific research’s significance in society.
• State the writer’s opinion supporting government control over private companies in scientific research.

Topic sentence: Government involvement ensures effective regulation and specialized expertise.

• Reasons: Ethical standards enforcement, prevention of scientific misuse.
• Explanations: Authority to establish strict guidelines, ensure compliance.
• Examples: Government intervention leading to breakthroughs in public health, environmental conservation.
• Comparisons: Government-led research vs. private research in accountability, transparency.
• Benefits: Unbiased scientific findings, prevention of conflicts of interest.

Topic sentence: Government control enables collaboration and long-term societal benefits.

• Explanations: Facilitation of researcher collaboration, knowledge sharing, interdisciplinary approaches.
• Examples: Government-led initiatives resulting in groundbreaking discoveries, technological advancements.
• Benefits: Long-term planning, investment in research with delayed or uncertain commercial viability.
• Results: Research positively impacting public welfare, shaping national policies.
• Counterarguments and Rebuttals: Address concerns about stifling innovation, impeding entrepreneurial initiatives.

Conclusion:

• Recap writer’s opinion favoring government control of scientific research.
• Summarize key points, highlighting benefits of government involvement in ensuring scientific progress for societal improvement.

IELTS Model Essay 1

Government regulation of private companies in scientific research is vital for upholding ethical standards, preventing scientific misuse, and promoting collaboration. This essay will explore these reasons and highlight the long-term impact on society.

Government involvement in scientific research guarantees effective regulation and specialized expertise. By establishing strict guidelines and ensuring compliance, the government plays a crucial role in enforcing ethical standards and preventing scientific misuse. For instance, government intervention has resulted in significant advancements in public health, such as the development of life-saving vaccines, and environmental conservation through sustainable practices. Compared to private research, government-led initiatives offer greater accountability and transparency. The unbiased scientific findings resulting from government control help prevent conflicts of interest that may arise in privately funded research. Overall, government involvement in scientific research safeguards the integrity of the process and promotes societal well-being.

Moreover, government control plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and generating long-term societal benefits. Governments facilitate researcher collaboration, knowledge sharing, and interdisciplinary approaches, which foster innovation and lead to groundbreaking discoveries and technological advancements. Furthermore, government-led initiatives have the advantage of engaging in long-term planning and investment, supporting research with delayed or uncertain commercial viability. As a result, the outcomes of such research positively impact public welfare and shape national policies. Although some argue that government control may stifle innovation and impede entrepreneurial initiatives, it is important to note that government involvement can coexist with private sector participation. By encouraging partnerships between public institutions and private companies, innovation is fostered while ethical standards and societal benefits are ensured.

In conclusion, government control over private companies in scientific research is crucial. The government’s enforcement of ethical standards, prevention of scientific misuse, and promotion of collaboration ensures progress that benefits society as a whole.

290 words

Detailed Outline 2: for IELTS Writing Task 2: Disagree

Introduction:

• Introduce topic: scientific research and government vs. private companies control.
• State writer’s opinion against government-controlled research.

Body paragraph 1: Disadvantages of government-controlled scientific research

• Topic sentence: Government control limits innovation and stifles competition.
  • Lack of competition hinders progress and slows advancements. (Reason)
  • Bureaucratic processes and regulations restrict researchers’ freedom. (Drawback)
  • Government funding prioritizes politically motivated research. (Result)
  • Centralized decision-making leads to biases and limits diversity. (Drawback)
  • Government control discourages private investment in R&D. (Result)
  • Private companies drive innovation with resources and expertise. (Compare)

Body paragraph 2: Advantages of private companies conducting scientific research

• Topic sentence: Private companies foster innovation, efficiency, and accountability.
  • Market competition incentivizes breakthroughs and applications. (Benefit 1)
  • Accountability to shareholders and consumers ensures reliable findings. (Benefit 2)
  • Partnerships with academia and non-profits leverage resources. (Benefit 3)
  • Private companies commercialize discoveries, benefiting society. (Benefit 4)

Conclusion:

• Summarize main points from body paragraphs.
• Reiterate writer’s opinion favoring private company involvement.

IELTS Model Essay 2

Scientific research plays a crucial role in expanding knowledge and driving technological advancements. However, the issue of whether scientific research should be exclusively controlled by the government or involve private entities is a contentious one. Personally, I am against the idea of exclusive government control over scientific research. This essay will discuss the limitations of government-controlled research and highlight the advantages of private sector involvement.

On the one hand, when the government controls scientific research, innovation is often limited, and competition is stifled. The absence of competition impedes progress and slows down scientific advancements. Additionally, bureaucratic processes and government-imposed regulations restrict researchers’ freedom and flexibility. This rigid framework can hinder creativity and obstruct the pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries. Furthermore, government funding for research may prioritize politically motivated projects over those with the potential for significant breakthroughs. Centralized decision-making can introduce biases and favoritism, which restricts the diversity of research topics and approaches. Moreover, the prospect of government control may discourage private investment in research and development, as companies perceive it as less profitable and riskier.

.

On the other hand, private companies possess the necessary resources, expertise, and entrepreneurial drive to foster innovation and bring scientific discoveries to the market. Market competition among private companies incentivizes the pursuit of breakthroughs and the development of practical applications. Private companies have the agility to respond swiftly to emerging scientific trends and adapt their research accordingly. Moreover, being accountable to shareholders and consumers compels private companies to generate reliable and marketable scientific findings. The involvement of the private sector in scientific research also attracts diverse talent and expertise, encouraging collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches. Through partnerships with academic institutions and non-profit organizations, private companies can create synergies and leverage resources for impactful research. Furthermore, the profit motive of private companies can lead to the commercialization of scientific discoveries, benefiting society through job creation and economic growth.

In conclusion, while there are some advantages to government control in scientific research, the drawbacks outweigh the benefits. Private companies promote innovation, efficiency, and accountability. Therefore, it is crucial to encourage their involvement in research, accompanied by appropriate regulations and oversight, in order to unlock scientific potential and accelerate progress.

361 words