Is scientific research a waste?: IELTS Task 2 essay #8, band 8.0
A student’s answer to this repeated IELTS question, shared without their name and marked by Axiom on the four criteria. Select a highlighted passage to see how it could be revised, and why.
339 words. Marked by Axiom on 12 July 2025. Estimated by AI. It isn’t an official IELTS score.
Task 2339 words
Some people say that a lot of scientific research done today is a waste of time and money. To what extent do you agree disagree?
It is often said that much scientific research is carried out only for academic reasons and does not really help ordinary people. While this might be true in some specific cases, I believe that most scientific research has clear and useful benefits for society, especially in health, the environment, and daily life.
Vaccines, treatments for cancer, and advanced surgical methods were developed through long-term studies done by scientists. Even though people may not always see the process, they still benefit from the results. In addition, new medicines, medical equipment, and better ways to take care of patients are all results of scientific research that help people every day.
Coherence & cohesion
RevisedFirstly, numerous medical discoveries arising from research have been instrumental in saving millions of lives.
The revised sentence provides a more formal and academic tone.
Grammar & accuracy
RevisedA prime example of this is the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines.
The revised sentence corrects the minor awkwardness in the original sentence.
Lexical resource
RevisedThis was made possible by years of scientific work that had been conducted prior to the onset of the pandemic.
The revised sentence provides a more formal and academic tone, and the use of 'conducted' is more appropriate in this context.
Studies on climate change, global warming, and pollution help governments and companies make smarter choices. For example, electric cars, solar panels, and wind turbines were all created and improved through science. These technologies help reduce the use of fossil fuels, which are harmful to the planet. Research also teaches us how to recycle, reduce waste, and protect natural resources.
Coherence & cohesion
RevisedMoreover, research plays a crucial role in addressing environmental issues.
The revised sentence provides a more varied linking word and a more formal tone.
Grammar & accuracy
RevisedThe everyday use of these solutions by people, albeit unknowingly, is a testament to their scientific origin.
The revised sentence corrects the minor awkwardness in the original sentence and provides a more formal and academic tone.
However, it is true that not all research leads to practical results.
Lexical resource
RevisedSome projects may be overly theoretical or only of interest to scientists.
The revised sentence provides a more formal and academic tone, and the use of 'overly' and 'may' is more appropriate in this context.
Lexical resource
RevisedIn such instances, the funds could potentially be redirected to address more pressing needs such as schools or hospitals.
The revised sentence provides a more formal and academic tone, and the use of 'redirected' and 'pressing' is more appropriate in this context.
It helps cure diseases, protects the environment, and supports the development of useful technology. Therefore, I believe that scientific research is not only valuable but also necessary for a better future.
Coherence & cohesion
RevisedIn conclusion, despite the fact that some scientific research may not provide immediate or direct benefits to the general public, the majority of it is pivotal in enhancing lives.
The revised sentence provides a more formal and academic tone, and the use of 'despite' improves the coherence of the sentence.
Select a highlighted passage to see its suggested revision.
What Axiom wrote for each criterion: why the answer earned its band, and what to work on next.
Coherence & cohesion
Band 8.0/ 9
The essay is logically organized and ideas are connected well. The introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion are clearly structured. However, there are a few areas where the flow of ideas could be improved.
Suggestions
- Try to use a wider range of linking words to connect your ideas more effectively.
- Ensure that your conclusion fully summarizes the arguments made in the body of the essay.
Sentence revisions 3
RevisedFirstly, numerous medical discoveries arising from research have been instrumental in saving millions of lives.
The revised sentence provides a more formal and academic tone.
RevisedMoreover, research plays a crucial role in addressing environmental issues.
The revised sentence provides a more varied linking word and a more formal tone.
RevisedIn conclusion, despite the fact that some scientific research may not provide immediate or direct benefits to the general public, the majority of it is pivotal in enhancing lives.
The revised sentence provides a more formal and academic tone, and the use of 'despite' improves the coherence of the sentence.
Grammar & accuracy
Band 8.0/ 9
The essay uses a wide range of complex structures. The majority of sentences are error-free. However, there are a few minor errors that could be addressed.
Sentence revisions 3
RevisedA prime example of this is the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines.
The revised sentence corrects the minor awkwardness in the original sentence.
RevisedThe everyday use of these solutions by people, albeit unknowingly, is a testament to their scientific origin.
The revised sentence corrects the minor awkwardness in the original sentence and provides a more formal and academic tone.
RevisedThe majority of it plays a crucial role in enhancing quality of life.
The revised sentence provides a more formal and academic tone, and the use of 'enhancing quality of life' is more appropriate in this context.
Lexical resource
Band 8.0/ 9
The essay demonstrates a good command of a broad lexical repertoire. A variety of vocabulary and idiomatic expressions are used effectively. However, there are a few instances of awkward or incorrect word choice.
Sentence revisions 3
RevisedThis was made possible by years of scientific work that had been conducted prior to the onset of the pandemic.
The revised sentence provides a more formal and academic tone, and the use of 'conducted' is more appropriate in this context.
RevisedSome projects may be overly theoretical or only of interest to scientists.
The revised sentence provides a more formal and academic tone, and the use of 'overly' and 'may' is more appropriate in this context.
RevisedIn such instances, the funds could potentially be redirected to address more pressing needs such as schools or hospitals.
The revised sentence provides a more formal and academic tone, and the use of 'redirected' and 'pressing' is more appropriate in this context.
Task response
Band 8.0/ 9
The essay addresses the task effectively, presenting a clear position throughout the response. The arguments are well-developed and supported with relevant examples. However, the introduction could be more engaging to the reader.
Suggestions
- Consider using a more engaging hook in the introduction to capture the reader's attention.
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