IELTS Task 2 Writing Samples: Band 8 to 9 – Set 2

Below you can read three IELTS Task 2 questions and response essays. These essays are written by IELTS experts and score band 8 to 9 on the IELTS. To get lots of help with your IELTS writing use the full course, bonus writing course and ‘Task 1’ and ‘Task 2’ editing services. We look forward to helping your reach your IELTS success.

WRITING TASK 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic

Some people believe that it is a good idea to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business and the academic world. Others believe that some information is too important or too valuable to be shared freely.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

INTRODUCTION
Knowledge is power. Freedom of expression and speech is a crucial part of most modern societies. Within this culture, many people believe that by sharing information freely among all humanity, the future of the world is enhanced. Although some reasons for sharing information freely include rapid development of science and benefit of humanity, I believe it should not be solicited without pay because information needs finance and security.

BODY 1
Scientific breakthroughs can be achieved faster and more when people do not need to have financial backing to acquire the necessary knowledge. There are many smart scientists who do not have the funds to acquire important information to complete their research. However, when the information is free, this is not a barrier for their progress. For instance, information on cancer can be accessed freely on the internet, and this allowed Dr. James Cornick, a poor physician in Ireland, to come up with a pill which helps cure skin cancer and benefits people around the world. Even though in this situation free knowledge is beneficial, it is not true in all cases.

BODY 2
Much information requires payment to be produce and maintain. Also, certain types of information in the wrong hands can be devastating for society. There are many professionals whose jobs are to produce research and new concepts. When they are not paid for this work, they can no longer generate science. In addition, some of this research deals with dangerous fields such as nuclear physics and pharmaceuticals. For instance, last year an act of terror occurred because some criminals were able to learn how to make explosives using free information on the internet. This clearly should not be permissible, and for this reason alone, not all information should be free to access for everyone.

CONCLUSION
In conclusion, distributing information free of charge can help in certain aspects but can also be detrimental to society. Although some believe people should give as much knowledge pro bono as possible, I strongly believe the opposite. People should be careful to underestimate the value and power of knowledge.