Community green spaces have become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject touches on various aspects of urban planning, environmental sustainability, and community well-being, making it a versatile and relevant theme for test-takers. Based on recent trends and the frequency of appearance in past exams, we can expect questions related to community green spaces to continue featuring prominently in future IELTS tests.
Let’s examine a sample question that exemplifies this topic:
Some people believe that it is important for cities to create more community green spaces like parks and sports fields. Others think cities should use land for alternative purposes like housing or businesses. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents a balanced argument about land use in urban areas. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the importance of creating more community green spaces
- Consider alternative uses of land for housing or businesses
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter
The key challenge here is to present both perspectives fairly while clearly stating and supporting your own view.
Sample Essay (Band 8)
Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that addresses all parts of the question effectively:
In the era of rapid urbanization, the allocation of land in cities has become a contentious issue. While some advocate for increasing community green spaces, others argue for prioritizing housing and commercial development. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective on this matter.
Proponents of community green spaces emphasize their numerous benefits to urban dwellers. Parks, sports fields, and other green areas provide crucial opportunities for physical activity and recreation, which are essential for maintaining public health in sedentary urban lifestyles. Moreover, these spaces serve as natural air purifiers, mitigating pollution and improving overall air quality in cities. They also foster social interaction and community bonding, creating a sense of belonging among residents.
On the other hand, those favoring alternative land use argue that cities face pressing needs for housing and economic development. With urban populations growing, there is an urgent demand for affordable housing to prevent overcrowding and homelessness. Additionally, allocating land for businesses can stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and increase the city’s tax base, which can fund various public services.
In my opinion, while both arguments have merit, I believe that creating more community green spaces should be a priority for urban planners. The long-term benefits of green spaces in terms of public health, environmental sustainability, and community well-being far outweigh the short-term gains from excessive urban development. However, I also believe that a balanced approach is necessary. Cities should strive to integrate green spaces into housing and commercial projects, such as rooftop gardens or green corridors, to maximize land use efficiency while maintaining the benefits of natural environments.
In conclusion, the debate over land use in cities is complex, but the importance of community green spaces cannot be overstated. By prioritizing these areas while also addressing housing and economic needs through innovative urban planning, cities can create more livable, sustainable, and prosperous environments for their residents.
(Word count: 309)
Benefits of urban green spaces
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
Here’s a sample essay that demonstrates writing at a Band 6-7 level:
In modern cities, there is a debate about how to use available land. Some people think it’s important to make more parks and sports areas, while others believe the land should be used for houses or businesses. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
Those who support more green spaces in cities have good reasons. Parks and sports fields give people places to exercise and relax, which is good for health. These areas also help make the air cleaner and give people a place to meet friends and neighbors. For example, in my city, the central park is always full of people doing activities and enjoying nature.
On the other hand, people who want to use land for housing and businesses also have valid points. Cities need more houses because the population is growing, and people need affordable places to live. Also, using land for businesses can create jobs and help the city’s economy grow. This can give the city more money to spend on services for people.
In my opinion, I think it’s more important to have green spaces in cities. While housing and businesses are necessary, having parks and sports fields makes the city a better place to live. These areas help people stay healthy and happy, which is very important. However, I also think cities can find ways to build houses and businesses that include some green areas, like gardens on top of buildings.
To conclude, both green spaces and urban development are important for cities. But I believe that making more parks and sports fields should be the priority because they improve the quality of life for everyone in the city.
(Word count: 280)
Key Writing Tips
When addressing this topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, consider the following:
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Structure: Ensure a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion that restates your opinion.
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Vocabulary: Use a range of topic-specific vocabulary related to urban planning and environment. For higher bands, incorporate more sophisticated synonyms and collocations.
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Grammar: Demonstrate a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Higher band scores require more varied and sophisticated grammatical constructions.
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Cohesion: Use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly within and between paragraphs.
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Examples: Include relevant examples to support your arguments. Personal experiences or general observations can be effective.
Essential Vocabulary
Here are some key terms to remember when writing about community green spaces:
- Urban planning (noun) /ˈɜːrbən ˈplænɪŋ/ – the process of designing and organizing urban areas
- Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain at a certain level without depleting resources
- Recreational facilities (noun phrase) /ˌrekriˈeɪʃənl fəˈsɪlətiz/ – areas or equipment for leisure activities
- Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
- Urban sprawl (noun) /ˈɜːrbən sprɔːl/ – the uncontrolled expansion of urban areas
- Green infrastructure (noun phrase) /ɡriːn ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – a network of green spaces that provide environmental benefits
- Quality of life (noun phrase) /ˈkwɒləti əv laɪf/ – the standard of health, comfort, and happiness experienced by individuals
- Ecosystem services (noun phrase) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm ˈsɜːvɪsɪz/ – benefits provided by natural ecosystems to humans
- Urban heat island (noun phrase) /ˈɜːrbən hiːt ˈaɪlənd/ – an urban area significantly warmer than its surrounding rural areas
- Community cohesion (noun phrase) /kəˈmjuːnəti kəʊˈhiːʒən/ – the sense of unity and belonging within a community
Conclusion
The topic of community green spaces in urban areas is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The impact of urbanization on the environment
- Balancing economic development with environmental conservation in cities
- The role of green spaces in promoting public health in urban areas
- Innovative solutions for incorporating nature into dense urban environments
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on the sample question provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and to learn from other test-takers. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and increase your confidence for the actual IELTS exam.
