IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Mandatory Electric Cars in Urban Areas (Band 6-9)

The topic of mandatory electric cars in urban areas has become increasingly relevant in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This theme aligns with global environmental concerns and urban planning challenges, making it a prime candidate for future test appearances. Based on our analysis of past exams and current trends, we’ve identified a highly probable question format for this topic:

Some people think that the use of electric cars should be mandatory in large cities to reduce air pollution. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Let’s break down this question and provide sample essays for different band scores, along with detailed analyses.

Question Analysis

This question falls under the “agree or disagree” category, requiring candidates to express and support their opinion on a given statement. Key points to consider:

1. The main topic is the mandatory use of electric cars in large cities.
2. The primary reason given is to reduce air pollution.
3. Candidates need to state their level of agreement and provide supporting arguments.
4. It’s crucial to discuss both the benefits and potential drawbacks of this proposal.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9

In recent years, the idea of mandating electric vehicles in metropolitan areas has gained traction as a potential solution to combat rising air pollution levels. While I largely agree with this proposition, I believe its implementation requires careful consideration of various factors.

The primary advantage of enforcing electric car usage in big cities is the significant reduction in air pollution. Conventional vehicles emit harmful gases and particulate matter, contributing substantially to poor air quality in urban areas. By transitioning to electric cars, which produce zero direct emissions, cities could experience a dramatic improvement in air quality, leading to better public health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs associated with respiratory illnesses.

Moreover, mandating electric vehicles could accelerate the development of supporting infrastructure and technology. As demand increases, there would likely be greater investment in charging stations, battery technology, and renewable energy sources to power these vehicles. This shift could create new job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the green technology sector.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential challenges of such a mandate. The initial cost of electric vehicles remains higher than that of conventional cars, which could place a financial burden on lower-income residents. Additionally, the current electric grid in many cities may not be equipped to handle a sudden surge in electricity demand, potentially leading to power shortages or increased reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

To address these concerns, a phased approach to implementation could be more effective. Governments could start by offering substantial incentives for electric vehicle purchases, gradually increasing restrictions on conventional vehicles, and simultaneously investing in grid infrastructure and renewable energy. This strategy would allow for a smoother transition and give both consumers and industries time to adapt.

In conclusion, while I strongly support the move towards mandatory electric cars in large cities to combat air pollution, I believe it is essential to implement this change gradually and with careful planning. By doing so, we can maximize the environmental benefits while minimizing potential socio-economic disruptions.

(Word count: 309)

Electric cars reducing urban air pollution

Essay Analysis: Band 8-9

This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a high band score (8-9) response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a well-developed argument. It discusses both advantages and potential challenges of mandating electric cars.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central topic, and ideas are logically linked using a range of cohesive devices.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise, with a wide range of words and phrases (e.g., “metropolitan areas,” “particulate matter,” “accelerate the development,” “stimulate economic growth”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a wide range of complex structures used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “While I largely agree with this proposition,” “By transitioning to electric cars, which produce zero direct emissions,”).

5. Critical Thinking: The essay demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the topic, considering multiple perspectives and proposing a balanced solution.

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7

The use of electric cars in big cities to reduce air pollution is a topic of much debate. In my opinion, I agree that making electric cars mandatory in urban areas could help improve air quality, but I also think there are some problems with this idea.

One main reason I support electric cars in cities is that they don’t produce exhaust fumes. Regular cars release harmful gases that make the air dirty and unhealthy to breathe. If all cars in a city were electric, the air would be much cleaner, and people would be healthier. This change could lead to fewer people getting sick from breathing problems.

Another good point is that electric cars are quieter than normal cars. This means that cities with only electric cars would have less noise pollution. Less noise is good for people’s mental health and can make cities more pleasant places to live.

However, there are some difficulties with making electric cars mandatory. First, electric cars are often more expensive than regular cars. Many people might not be able to afford to buy a new electric car, which could cause problems for poorer residents. Also, cities would need to build many charging stations for all these electric cars, which would cost a lot of money.

Another issue is that the electricity for these cars needs to come from somewhere. If the electricity is made by burning coal or oil, then we’re still causing pollution, just in a different way. Cities would need to use more renewable energy sources like solar or wind power to make sure electric cars are truly helping the environment.

In conclusion, while I believe making electric cars mandatory in big cities could greatly help reduce air pollution, I think it’s important to consider the challenges this change would bring. Governments should provide support to help people buy electric cars and invest in clean energy sources to make this idea work well.

(Word count: 309)

Electric car charging station in an urban setting

Essay Analysis: Band 6-7

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position. However, the ideas could be further developed and supported with more specific examples.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. There is a logical progression of ideas, though the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, with some attempts at using less common words (e.g., “exhaust fumes,” “mental health,” “renewable energy sources”). However, there is some repetition and less precision compared to higher band scores.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are fewer complex structures compared to the Band 8-9 essay, but the meaning is clear throughout.

5. Critical Thinking: The essay shows an understanding of multiple aspects of the issue, presenting both advantages and disadvantages. However, the analysis is less nuanced and the proposed solution less detailed compared to higher band scores.

Key Vocabulary

1. Mandatory (adjective) /ˈmændətɔːri/: Required by law or rules; compulsory.

2. Air pollution (noun) /eə(r) pəˈluːʃn/: The presence of harmful substances in the air, typically resulting from human activities.

3. Metropolitan (adjective) /metrəˈpɒlɪtən/: Relating to or characteristic of a large city.

4. Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/: The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.

5. Transition (noun) /trænˈzɪʃn/: The process or period of changing from one state or condition to another.

6. Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.

7. Incentives (noun) /ɪnˈsentɪvz/: Things that motivate or encourage someone to do something.

8. Phased approach (noun) /feɪzd əˈprəʊtʃ/: A method of implementing changes gradually in stages.

9. Socio-economic (adjective) /ˌsəʊsiəʊ iːkəˈnɒmɪk/: Relating to or concerned with the interaction of social and economic factors.

10. Particulate matter (noun) /pɑːˈtɪkjələt ˈmætə(r)/: Very small solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in air, often contributors to air pollution.

In conclusion, the topic of mandatory electric cars in urban areas is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare for similar questions, practice writing essays that discuss both the benefits and challenges of environmental policies. Consider aspects such as economic impact, social equity, and technological feasibility in your responses. We encourage you to attempt writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and further discussion.