“The influence of historical preservation on urban development” is a topic that occasionally appears in the IELTS Writing Task 2 exam. It delves into the complex relationship between preserving a city’s historical heritage and the demands of modern urban growth. This essay will provide a sample answer to a potential IELTS question on this topic, along with a detailed analysis and vocabulary guide to help you craft your own high-scoring response.
Sample IELTS Essay Question
Some people believe that historical buildings should be preserved, while others believe that it is more important to use land effectively and build modern buildings. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Essay Analysis
This question presents a classic “discuss both views and give your opinion” format. You are expected to:
- Present both sides: Acknowledge the arguments for preserving historical structures and those for prioritizing modern development.
- Provide your opinion: Clearly state your stance on the issue, whether you agree with one side more or offer a balanced perspective.
- Support your arguments: Use relevant examples and logical reasoning to justify your points.
Sample Essay
The question of whether to prioritize the preservation of historical buildings or to maximize land use for modern structures is a complex one, with valid arguments on both sides. While some advocate for the economic and practical benefits of contemporary development, I firmly believe that preserving historical landmarks is crucial for maintaining cultural identity and fostering a sense of place.
Those who support prioritizing modern buildings argue that doing so is essential for accommodating growing populations and meeting the demands of a thriving economy. New buildings can be designed with modern amenities, sustainable technologies, and efficient layouts, contributing to a higher quality of life for residents. Moreover, construction projects inject capital into the local economy, create jobs, and generate revenue through property taxes. For example, the development of modern skyscrapers in cities like Shanghai and Dubai has not only provided much-needed housing and office space but also fueled economic growth and attracted foreign investment.
modern-cityscape-dubai|Modern Cityscape of Dubai|A wide-angle shot of a modern cityscape with skyscrapers, highways, and green spaces, showcasing the efficient land use and contemporary architecture of a thriving metropolis like Dubai.
However, the preservation of historical buildings is equally vital. These structures serve as tangible links to a city’s past, embodying its cultural heritage and architectural evolution. They offer valuable insights into previous generations’ ways of life, artistic expressions, and technological advancements. Losing these landmarks would mean erasing a significant part of a city’s identity and severing ties with its history. Furthermore, historical districts often become major tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the globe and generating substantial economic benefits. Cities like Rome, Athens, and Kyoto, renowned for their well-preserved historical sites, attract millions of tourists annually, boosting their local economies and providing employment opportunities.
In conclusion, while modern development is undeniably important for urban progress, the preservation of historical buildings is essential for maintaining cultural heritage, fostering a sense of place, and promoting tourism. Striking a balance between these two priorities is crucial for creating cities that are both modern and deeply connected to their past. (Word count: 308)
Key Vocabulary
- Preservation (noun /ˌprez.ɚˈveɪ.ʃən/): The act of keeping something in its original state or in good condition.
- Urban development (noun /ˈɝː.bən dɪˈvel.əp.mənt/): The process of building and improving the physical and social features of cities and towns.
- Modern amenities (noun /ˈmɑː.dən əˈmen.ə.tiz/): Up-to-date facilities and features that make a place comfortable and convenient to live in.
- Sustainable technologies (noun /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl tekˈnɑː.lə.dʒiz/): Technologies designed to have minimal negative impact on the environment and to conserve resources.
- Cultural heritage (noun /ˈkʌl.tʃər.əl ˈher.ɪ.tɪdʒ/): The traditions, beliefs, customs, and art forms that are passed down from generation to generation within a society.
- Architectural evolution (noun /ˌɑːr.kɪˈtek.tʃər.əl ˌiː.vəˈluː.ʃən/): The gradual development of architectural styles and techniques over time.
- Tangible links (noun /ˈtæn.dʒə.bəl lɪŋks/): Physical objects or places that connect us to the past.
- Fostering a sense of place (verb phrase /ˈfɑː.stər.ɪŋ ə sens əv pleɪs/): Creating a feeling of belonging and connection to a particular location.
Conclusion
Navigating the complexities of historical preservation and urban development is a common challenge for cities worldwide. Mastering your ability to articulate these issues in English will undoubtedly benefit your IELTS Writing score. Continue practicing with other relevant topics like sustainable urban planning, the impact of tourism on historical sites, and the role of government in preserving cultural heritage.