Urban green spaces have become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This theme, which explores the relationship between city planning, nature, and human health, has appeared in various forms over the past few years. Based on recent trends, we can expect to see more questions related to the importance of urban green spaces for mental well-being in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a relevant question that has been featured in past tests:
Some people believe that cities should create more public parks and green spaces, while others think there are more important priorities for land use. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents two contrasting viewpoints on urban land use:
- Cities should prioritize creating more public parks and green spaces.
- There are more important priorities for land use in cities.
The task requires candidates to discuss both perspectives and provide their own opinion. This type of question tests your ability to:
- Understand and present different viewpoints
- Develop arguments for each side
- Express and justify your personal opinion
- Use appropriate vocabulary and grammar structures
Should cities prioritize building public parks and green spaces is a complex issue that touches on various aspects of urban planning and quality of life. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays at different band levels.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Urban development often presents a dilemma between creating green spaces and meeting other pressing needs. While some argue for the expansion of public parks, others contend that land should be allocated to more critical urban priorities. In my opinion, a balanced approach that incorporates green areas into overall city planning is essential for sustainable urban living.
Proponents of increasing green spaces argue that parks and natural areas are vital for residents’ physical and mental well-being. These areas provide opportunities for exercise, relaxation, and social interaction, which are crucial in combating the stress and sedentary lifestyle associated with urban living. Moreover, green spaces contribute significantly to environmental health by improving air quality, reducing urban heat island effects, and supporting biodiversity. Cities like Singapore have demonstrated that integrating nature into urban design can enhance both livability and economic competitiveness.
On the other hand, those prioritizing alternative land uses often cite pressing needs such as housing, transportation infrastructure, and commercial development. In rapidly growing cities, the demand for affordable housing is acute, and dedicating large areas to parks may seem like a luxury. Additionally, expanding public transportation networks and road systems is crucial for reducing traffic congestion and improving urban mobility. Proponents of this view argue that these developments have a more immediate and tangible impact on residents’ quality of life.
Urban green spaces improving mental well-being
In my view, the dichotomy between green spaces and other urban priorities is a false one. Effective urban planning should integrate green areas into various aspects of city development, rather than treating them as separate entities. For instance, green corridors can be incorporated into transportation networks, rooftop gardens can be mandated for new buildings, and brownfield sites can be transformed into community parks. This approach not only addresses the need for nature in urban environments but also enhances the functionality and aesthetic appeal of other urban developments.
In conclusion, while the competing demands for urban land use present challenges, I believe that prioritizing green spaces is not mutually exclusive with addressing other urban needs. By adopting innovative and integrated approaches to urban planning, cities can create environments that are not only efficient and economically viable but also conducive to the physical and mental well-being of their residents.
(Word count: 398)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion that reinforces the writer’s opinion.
Coherent arguments: Each paragraph develops a single main idea with relevant examples and explanations.
Advanced vocabulary: The essay uses a range of sophisticated vocabulary accurately (e.g., “dilemma,” “sedentary lifestyle,” “urban heat island effects,” “biodiversity”).
Complex sentence structures: The writer employs a variety of complex sentences, showcasing advanced grammar usage.
Critical thinking: The essay goes beyond simply stating opinions by analyzing the interrelationship between different aspects of urban planning.
Specific examples: The mention of Singapore provides a concrete example to support the argument.
Clear position: The writer’s opinion is clearly stated and consistently supported throughout the essay.
These elements combine to create a well-argued, coherent, and sophisticated response that would likely achieve a Band 8 or 9 score.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Today, many people debate whether cities should make more parks and green areas or use land for other important things. Both sides have good points, and I will discuss them before giving my opinion.
Those who support more parks and green spaces say they are good for people’s health and happiness. Parks give people places to exercise, relax, and meet friends, which can help reduce stress from busy city life. Also, trees and plants in parks help clean the air and make the city look nicer. For example, in New York City, Central Park is very popular and helps make the city a better place to live.
On the other hand, some people think cities have more important things to use land for. They say cities need more houses, especially affordable ones, because many people can’t find good places to live. They also argue that building more roads and public transport is necessary to reduce traffic problems. These things can directly improve people’s daily lives by giving them homes and easier ways to travel.
Urban planning balancing green spaces and infrastructure
In my opinion, I think cities need both green spaces and other important developments. It’s possible to have parks and also build necessary things like houses and roads. For example, cities can make small parks in neighborhoods, put gardens on building roofs, or plant trees along streets. This way, people can enjoy nature without using too much land.
To conclude, while some people want more parks and others want land used for different purposes, I believe cities can and should do both. By being creative, cities can have green spaces and still meet other important needs of their residents.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates several characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:
Clear structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs addressing both views, and a conclusion with the writer’s opinion.
Relevant ideas: The main points are relevant to the question and supported with some examples.
Adequate vocabulary: The essay uses a range of vocabulary related to the topic, though not as sophisticated as the Band 8-9 essay.
Mixture of simple and complex sentences: The writer uses both simple and some complex sentences, showing good control over grammar.
Coherence: Ideas are generally well-organized and flow logically from one to the next.
Personal opinion: The writer clearly states their opinion in the conclusion.
Limited depth: While the essay covers the main points, it doesn’t explore the ideas in as much depth as the higher band essay.
This essay would likely achieve a Band 6 or 7 score. To improve, the writer could:
- Provide more specific examples and explanations
- Use more advanced vocabulary and complex grammatical structures
- Develop ideas in more depth, showing a more nuanced understanding of the issue
How does urbanization affect the availability of green spaces is a related topic that candidates might want to explore to enhance their understanding of this subject.
Key Vocabulary
Urban planning (noun) – /ˈɜːrbən ˈplænɪŋ/: The process of designing and organizing urban areas.
Green space (noun) – /ɡriːn speɪs/: An area of grass, trees, or other vegetation set apart for recreational or aesthetic purposes in an urban environment.
Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.
Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/: The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
Urbanization (noun) – /ˌɜːbənaɪˈzeɪʃn/: The process by which towns and cities are formed and become larger as more and more people begin living and working in central areas.
Quality of life (noun phrase) – /ˈkwɒləti əv laɪf/: The standard of health, comfort, and happiness experienced by an individual or group.
Urban heat island (noun phrase) – /ˈɜːbən hiːt ˈaɪlənd/: A metropolitan area that is significantly warmer than its surrounding rural areas due to human activities.
Sedentary lifestyle (noun phrase) – /ˈsedntri ˈlaɪfstaɪl/: A way of living that involves little or no physical activity.
Brownfield site (noun) – /ˈbraʊnfiːld saɪt/: An area of land previously used for industrial purposes, which may be contaminated and requires cleaning before it can be reused.
Understanding and using these terms correctly can significantly enhance the quality and sophistication of your IELTS Writing Task 2 essays on topics related to urban planning and green spaces.
Conclusion
The importance of urban green spaces for mental well-being is a crucial topic in contemporary urban planning discussions and a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. As urbanization continues to accelerate globally, questions about balancing development with environmental preservation and quality of life are likely to become even more prevalent in future IELTS exams.
Candidates should be prepared to discuss various aspects of this issue, such as:
- The impact of green spaces on physical and mental health
- The role of urban parks in community building and social cohesion
- How urbanization contributes to loss of natural habitats and biodiversity
- Innovative approaches to integrating nature into urban environments
- The economic benefits of green spaces in cities
To excel in writing about this topic, practice developing well-structured arguments, using relevant examples, and incorporating appropriate vocabulary. Consider writing your own essay on the sample question provided in this article and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice can significantly improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.
Sustainable urban development with integrated green spaces
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just knowing the topic, but being able to articulate your thoughts clearly, coherently, and accurately. Regular practice and familiarization with various aspects of urban planning and environmental issues will help you tackle any question on this theme with confidence.