The Ethics of Using Biometric Data for Security Purposes - TOEFL iBT® Academic Discussion Practice Test

In the TOEFL Writing Academic Discussion task, you will engage with the topic, ‘The Ethics of Using Biometric Data for Security Purposes.’ This task evaluates your ability to analyze and discuss ethical issues in a structured manner. You will need to synthesize information and articulate your stance on the ethical implications.

By practicing this task, you'll enhance your skills in presenting arguments and critically evaluating complex ethical questions, vital for success in the TOEFL Writing section.

Writing Instructions:

• You will read a discussion related to an academic topic in class where your classmates have written their opinions on the said topic.
• You have 10 minutes to prepare and write your personal opinion on the academic topic. 
• Try to answer the question based on the discussion. You can also take ideas from the opinions posted by your classmates.
• There is no maximum word limit. However, an effective response should be a minimum of 100 words.
• Your response will be judged on the quality and clarity of your writing with well-supported reasons.

Instruction: Your professor is teaching a class on ethics and technology. Write a post responding to the professors question. In your response, you should

1. express and support your personal opinion

2. make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words. You have ten minutes to write.

Sample Response for the Academic Discussion Writing Task on The Ethics of Using Biometric Data for Security Purposes

To enhance your understanding of the scoring criteria for the Academic Discussion Writing Task, we have provided two sample responses: one scoring 3 and the other scoring 5:

Score 3 Response 

I think using biometric data for security purposes is not ethically justifiable. While it can improve security and convenience, the privacy risks are too high. Oliver mentioned that biometric data cannot be changed if it is stolen, which is a big problem. If someones fingerprint or facial data is hacked, they cannot simply get a new one.
Also, there is a risk that organizations could misuse or abuse biometric data. For example, they could use it for surveillance without peoples consent. This is a serious privacy concern. While biometric systems have benefits, the potential for misuse and privacy violations makes them ethically questionable.

Rater's Comment:

This response is adequate but lacks the depth and development needed for a higher score. The writer presents a clear opinion that using biometric data for security purposes is not ethically justifiable and provides some support for this view, such as the irreversible nature of biometric data and the risk of misuse by organizations. However, the argument is not fully developed, and the response lacks detailed reasoning and examples. The second paragraph attempts to address the potential for misuse but does not add much new information or insight to the discussion. Additionally, there are minor grammatical errors, such as "which is a big problem," which could be more clearly stated. Overall, the response addresses the prompt and contributes to the discussion, but it lacks the depth and coherence of a higher-scoring response.

Score 5 Response 

While biometric data can enhance security and convenience, I believe its use for security purposes is not ethically justifiable due to significant privacy risks and potential for misuse. Oliver raises a crucial point about the irreversible nature of biometric data. Unlike passwords, which can be changed if compromised, biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition cannot be altered. This makes the consequences of data breaches far more severe and long-lasting. If someone's biometric data is stolen, they face a permanent risk of identity theft and unauthorized access.
Moreover, the collection and storage of biometric data by organizations pose serious ethical concerns. There is a risk that this sensitive information could be misused or abused, either by the organizations themselves or by malicious actors who gain access to the data. For instance, governments or corporations could use biometric data for surveillance purposes, infringing on individual privacy rights. While the convenience and security benefits of biometric systems are appealing, they do not outweigh the potential for significant ethical violations and privacy breaches. Therefore, I believe that the use of biometric data for security purposes is not ethically justifiable.

Rater's Comment:

This response merits a high score due to its clear and well-developed argument. The writer effectively addresses the prompt by presenting a strong case against the ethical justification of using biometric data for security purposes. The response is well-organized, with each paragraph focusing on a specific aspect of the argument. The first paragraph discusses the irreversible nature of biometric data and the severe consequences of data breaches, while the second paragraph highlights the ethical concerns related to the collection and storage of biometric data. The language is formal and appropriate for an academic discussion, and the response is free from major grammatical errors. Overall, the writer provides a compelling and coherent argument that contributes meaningfully to the discussion.

Strategies for Taking the Academic Discussion Writing Task

Here are some strategies to effectively approach the topic ‘The Ethics of Using Biometric Data for Security Purposes’:

1. Understand Ethical Frameworks: Get acquainted with ethical theories that pertain to privacy, consent, and security to better assess the implications of using biometric data.

2. Analyze Different Perspectives: Look into various viewpoints on biometric data, weighing the security benefits against the potential risks to privacy and civil liberties.

3. Develop a Coherent Structure: Organize your essay by summarizing arguments for and against the use of biometric data, then present your own argument supported by evidence from readings and lectures.

4. Use Precise Language: Make sure your language is formal and precise, incorporating relevant terminology related to ethics and data security.

5. Practice Time Management: Manage your time effectively during the test to ensure you can plan, write, and review your response without feeling rushed.

Engaging in tasks like this one on ‘The Ethics of Using Biometric Data for Security Purposes’ will enhance your analytical and writing skills. Learning to evaluate and discuss ethical dilemmas is essential for success in the TOEFL Writing section.

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