The topic of bike lanes in urban areas is increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This subject aligns with global trends in sustainable urban planning and environmental consciousness, making it a likely candidate for future test questions. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and current urban development trends, we can expect questions related to the importance of bike lanes to appear more frequently.

Let’s examine a relevant IELTS Writing Task 2 question and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that governments should spend money on building train and subway lines to reduce traffic congestion. Others think that building more bicycle lanes and pedestrian areas is a better way to reduce traffic problems. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question addresses the broader issue of urban transportation and traffic congestion, with a specific focus on comparing public transit infrastructure (trains and subways) with cycling and pedestrian infrastructure. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the viewpoint of investing in train and subway lines
2. Discuss the viewpoint of investing in bicycle lanes and pedestrian areas
3. Provide their own opinion on which approach is more effective

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay for Band 8

Urban planners and governments worldwide grapple with the challenge of reducing traffic congestion in cities. While some advocate for increased investment in rail-based public transportation, others argue that promoting cycling and walking through dedicated infrastructure is more effective. In my opinion, a balanced approach incorporating both strategies is ideal, with a slight emphasis on bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure due to its cost-effectiveness and multiple benefits.

Proponents of train and subway development argue that these systems can move large numbers of people efficiently, significantly reducing the number of private vehicles on the road. For instance, a single subway line in Tokyo can transport hundreds of thousands of commuters daily, far exceeding the capacity of roads. Moreover, reliable public transit encourages long-term behavioral changes, as people become accustomed to leaving their cars at home. This shift can lead to substantial reductions in traffic congestion and air pollution in urban centers.

On the other hand, advocates for bicycle lanes and pedestrian areas highlight the numerous advantages of these infrastructure investments. Firstly, they are considerably less expensive to implement and maintain compared to rail systems. A comprehensive network of bike lanes can be constructed for a fraction of the cost of a single subway line. Additionally, cycling and walking infrastructure promotes active lifestyles, contributing to public health improvements and reducing healthcare costs. Furthermore, these modes of transport are emissions-free, aligning perfectly with cities’ sustainability goals.

In my view, while both approaches have merit, prioritizing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure offers a more immediate and cost-effective solution to traffic congestion. The effects of teleworking on urban infrastructure planning have shown that flexible transportation options are crucial. Bike lanes can be rapidly implemented and quickly adapted to changing urban needs, providing immediate relief to congested streets. Moreover, the health and environmental benefits of active transportation cannot be overstated. However, I believe the optimal strategy involves a combination of both approaches, with a stronger emphasis on cycling and walking infrastructure supplemented by strategic investments in public transit for longer-distance travel.

In conclusion, while train and subway systems play a vital role in urban transportation, the development of bicycle lanes and pedestrian areas offers a more versatile and immediately impactful solution to traffic congestion. Cities should prioritize these cost-effective, health-promoting, and environmentally friendly options while maintaining a balanced approach to urban mobility.

The importance of bike lanes in urban areas for reducing traffic congestion

Explanation of Band 8 Score

This essay would likely receive a Band 8 score for the following reasons:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion. It provides a nuanced perspective, acknowledging the merits of both approaches while favoring one.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. Ideas are logically sequenced, and there is a clear overall progression. Cohesive devices are used effectively throughout.

3. Lexical Resource: The essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used with flexibility and precision. Examples include “grapple with the challenge,” “cost-effectiveness,” and “emissions-free.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are used effectively, and there are no noticeable errors.

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Traffic congestion is a big problem in many cities today. Some people think the government should build more trains and subways to solve this issue, while others believe that making more bicycle lanes and areas for walking is better. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.

Building more trains and subways can help reduce traffic problems. These types of transport can carry many people at once, which means fewer cars on the roads. For example, in big cities like New York or London, the subway systems help millions of people travel every day without using cars. This can make the streets less crowded and reduce pollution from vehicles.

On the other hand, creating more bicycle lanes and pedestrian areas is another way to tackle traffic congestion. This approach can create more sustainable cities by promoting eco-friendly transportation. When people have safe places to bike or walk, they might choose these options instead of driving. This is good for their health and also helps reduce traffic. Additionally, building bike lanes is usually cheaper than constructing subway systems.

In my opinion, I think a mix of both ideas is the best solution. While trains and subways are important for long distances, bicycle lanes and walking areas are great for short trips. By having both options, people can choose the best way to travel based on their needs. This combination can help reduce traffic problems more effectively than just focusing on one solution.

To conclude, both building more public transport and creating spaces for cycling and walking have their advantages in reducing traffic congestion. A balanced approach using both strategies is likely to be the most effective way to solve traffic problems in cities.

Integration of bike lanes with public transit for efficient urban mobility

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay would likely receive a Band 6-7 score for the following reasons:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and stating the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas are not as fully developed as in the Band 8 essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. There is a logical sequence to the ideas, though the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in higher band essays.

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary, though it is less precise and varied compared to the Band 8 essay. Some attempts at less common vocabulary are present, such as “tackle” and “congestion.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are no major grammatical errors, but the range of structures is more limited compared to higher band essays.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Urban planning (noun) – /ˈɜːrbən ˈplænɪŋ/ – The process of designing and organizing urban areas
2. Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – The basic physical systems of a country or region
3. Congestion (noun) – /kənˈdʒestʃən/ – Overcrowding or clogging, especially of roads
4. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
5. Pedestrian (noun/adjective) – /pəˈdestriən/ – A person walking rather than traveling in a vehicle
6. Emissions (noun) – /ɪˈmɪʃnz/ – The production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation
7. Cost-effective (adjective) – /kɒst ɪˈfektɪv/ – Providing good value for the amount of money spent
8. Multi-modal (adjective) – /ˌmʌltiˈməʊdl/ – Characterized by several different modes of activity or occurrence
9. Commuter (noun) – /kəˈmjuːtər/ – A person who travels some distance to work on a regular basis
10. Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment

In conclusion, the topic of bike lanes in urban areas is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. How urban planning can create more inclusive cities is closely related to this topic and may appear in future exams. Candidates should be prepared to discuss various aspects of urban transportation, including public transit, cycling infrastructure, and pedestrian-friendly design. To practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.