Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Sustainable Urban Planning for Different Band Scores

Sustainable urban planning has become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject frequently appears in exams, reflecting its relevance in our rapidly urbanizing world. Based on recent trends, we can expect to see more questions related to sustainable city development, environmental conservation in urban areas, and the challenges of balancing growth with sustainability.

Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:

Some people believe that governments should focus on reducing environmental damage when planning and constructing urban areas, while others think the need for economic growth is more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question presents a common dilemma in urban planning: the balance between environmental protection and economic growth. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that governments should prioritize environmental protection in urban planning.
2. Discuss the opposing view that economic growth should be the primary focus.
3. Present and justify their own opinion on the matter.

Sample Essays for Different Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay Sample

The debate between prioritizing environmental protection or economic growth in urban planning is a critical issue facing many governments today. While both aspects are undeniably important for a city’s development, I believe that a balanced approach leaning towards environmental sustainability is crucial for long-term prosperity.

Proponents of prioritizing environmental protection argue that the health and well-being of citizens should be the foremost concern in urban development. By focusing on reducing environmental damage, cities can ensure cleaner air, water, and green spaces, which are essential for public health and quality of life. Moreover, environmentally conscious urban planning can lead to more efficient use of resources, reducing long-term costs and creating more resilient cities in the face of climate change. For instance, Singapore’s emphasis on green infrastructure and sustainable building practices has not only improved the city’s livability but also positioned it as a global leader in sustainable urban development.

On the other hand, those who advocate for prioritizing economic growth contend that a robust economy is necessary to fund environmental initiatives and improve overall living standards. They argue that without strong economic foundations, cities lack the resources to invest in sustainable technologies and infrastructure. This view suggests that rapid development and job creation should take precedence to alleviate poverty and boost prosperity. China’s rapid urbanization and economic growth over the past few decades exemplify this approach, lifting millions out of poverty but at a significant environmental cost.

In my opinion, while economic growth is undoubtedly important, the focus on reducing environmental damage should take precedence in urban planning. The reason for this is twofold. Firstly, environmental degradation often has irreversible consequences that can undermine economic gains in the long run. Polluted air and water, loss of biodiversity, and climate change impacts can lead to health crises and natural disasters that are far more costly to address than preventive measures. Secondly, the global shift towards sustainable practices means that cities prioritizing environmental protection are likely to attract more investment and skilled workers in the future, thereby fostering economic growth organically.

In conclusion, while the need for economic growth cannot be ignored, I believe that governments should place a greater emphasis on environmental protection when planning and constructing urban areas. A sustainable approach to urban development not only ensures a higher quality of life for residents but also positions cities for long-term economic success in an increasingly environmentally conscious world.

(Word count: 395)

Band 6-7 Essay Sample

The question of whether governments should focus more on protecting the environment or promoting economic growth when planning cities is a complex issue. Both sides have valid points, but I think a balance is necessary, with a slight emphasis on environmental protection.

Those who support prioritizing environmental protection in urban planning have good reasons. They believe that a clean and healthy environment is essential for people’s well-being and quality of life. If cities are built with a focus on reducing pollution and preserving green spaces, it can lead to healthier and happier residents. Additionally, environmentally friendly cities can attract tourists and businesses that value sustainability, which can actually help the economy in the long run.

On the other hand, supporters of focusing on economic growth argue that a strong economy is needed to improve people’s lives and fund environmental projects. They think that without enough money, cities can’t invest in clean technologies or maintain green spaces. This view suggests that by prioritizing economic development, cities can create jobs and raise living standards, which are also important for people’s well-being.

In my opinion, while both aspects are important, I believe that environmental protection should be given slightly more weight in urban planning. The reason for this is that environmental damage can be very difficult and expensive to reverse, whereas economic strategies can be adjusted more easily. Moreover, a clean and sustainable city is likely to attract more businesses and skilled workers in the long term, contributing to economic growth naturally.

To conclude, although economic growth is important, I think governments should focus more on reducing environmental damage when planning cities. This approach can lead to healthier, more livable cities that are also economically successful in the future.

(Word count: 292)

Band 5-6 Essay Sample

There are different opinions about what governments should focus on when planning cities. Some people think protecting the environment is more important, while others believe economic growth should be the main goal. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

People who think the environment is more important say that clean air and water are necessary for good health. They believe that if cities have more parks and less pollution, people will be happier and healthier. This can make the city a better place to live. Also, tourists might want to visit clean and green cities more, which can help the economy.

On the other hand, people who think economic growth is more important say that cities need money to improve. They believe that if there are more jobs and businesses, people will have better lives. With more money, the city can build better roads, schools, and hospitals. They think that without a strong economy, it’s hard to protect the environment because environmental projects cost money.

In my opinion, both the environment and the economy are important, but I think protecting the environment should come first. If we damage the environment too much, it can be very hard to fix it later. Also, a clean and green city can attract more businesses and people, which can help the economy grow naturally.

In conclusion, while economic growth is important, I believe governments should focus more on reducing environmental damage when planning cities. This can make cities better places to live and can also help the economy in the long run.

(Word count: 262)

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy.

Band 6-7 Essay

This essay shows competent writing skills:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though some parts are more fully extended than others.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some cohesive devices are overused or under-used.
3. Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task, with some attempts at less common vocabulary.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with good control and only occasional errors.

Band 5-6 Essay

This essay demonstrates modest writing skills:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the task, but the format is not always appropriate, and ideas are not always well-developed.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The overall progression is visible, but not always clear. Paragraphing is evident but not always logical.
3. Lexical Resource: A limited range of vocabulary is used, with some attempts at more sophisticated words, though not always successfully.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentences is attempted, but errors are frequent, especially in complex structures.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
2. Urban planning (noun phrase) /ˈɜːrbən ˈplænɪŋ/ – the process of designing and organizing urban areas
3. Environmental degradation (noun phrase) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – the deterioration of the environment through depletion of resources
4. Economic growth (noun phrase) /ˌiːkəˈnɑːmɪk ɡroʊθ/ – an increase in the amount of goods and services produced per head of the population over a period of time
5. Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
6. Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪoʊdaɪˈvɜːrsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat
7. Resilient (adjective) /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions
8. Livability (noun) /ˌlɪvəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being suitable for living in or the suitability of a place to live in

Sustainable Urban Planning Concept

Conclusion

Mastering the art of writing about sustainable urban planning in IELTS Task 2 requires a deep understanding of the balance between environmental protection and economic growth. As this topic continues to be relevant, future questions might explore specific aspects such as:

1. The role of technology in sustainable urban development
2. The challenges of implementing green policies in rapidly growing cities
3. The impact of sustainable urban planning on social equality

To improve your writing skills, try crafting your own essay on the given topic or one of these suggested themes. Share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Remember, practice is key to achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing Task 2!