School transportation and busing policies have been recurring topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays, appearing approximately 2-3 times annually in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this topic often intersects with education equality, environmental concerns, and urban planning. Let’s examine one frequently tested question format:
Some people believe that schools should provide free bus transportation for all students, while others think parents should be responsible for getting their children to school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Students boarding yellow school bus showcasing educational transportation
Analysis of the Question
- Topic: School transportation responsibility
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key elements: Free bus service vs parental responsibility
- Scope: Economic, social, and educational implications
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
Parents’ role in their children’s education has long been debated, particularly regarding school transportation responsibility. While some advocate for universal free school bus services, others believe this should remain a parental duty. I will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.
Those supporting free school transportation argue that it promotes educational equality. When schools provide bus services, students from all socioeconomic backgrounds have equal access to education, regardless of their parents’ ability to transport them. Furthermore, organized school bus systems can reduce traffic congestion around schools and decrease the overall carbon footprint of daily school commutes.
However, proponents of parental responsibility contend that schools should focus their resources on education rather than transportation. They argue that managing transportation logistics and costs could divert valuable funds from academic programs and teaching resources. Additionally, parents who transport their children may have more opportunities to engage with the school community and monitor their children’s activities.
In my opinion, while parental involvement is crucial, free school transportation should be provided as a basic educational service. This approach ensures that no child’s education is compromised by transportation limitations and promotes a more inclusive educational environment. Moreover, centralized school bus systems are typically more efficient and environmentally friendly than individual transportation arrangements.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
The topic of school transportation is important in many countries. Some people think schools should give free buses to all students, but others say parents should take their children to school. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Free school buses have some good points. First, it helps poor families who cannot afford transport costs. Also, when schools provide buses, it makes the roads less busy in the morning. Many parents save time because they don’t need to drive their children to school.
On the other hand, some people think parents should be responsible. They say schools already spend too much money on other things. If schools pay for buses, they might have less money for books and teachers. Some parents also like taking their children to school because they can talk to teachers.
I think free school buses are better. Many families have problems with transport costs, and free buses help all students get to school easily. Also, school buses are better for the environment because one bus can carry many students instead of many cars.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.0 Essay:
- Well-organized structure with clear paragraphing
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentences
- Strong cohesion and logical flow
- Balanced discussion with clear personal stance
- Relevant examples and supporting details
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Basic organization with visible paragraphing
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Some cohesive devices used
- Basic discussion of both views
- Limited development of ideas
Key Vocabulary
- socioeconomic (adj.) /ˌsəʊsiəʊˌekəˈnɒmɪk/ – relating to social and economic factors
- logistics (n.) /ləˈdʒɪstɪks/ – detailed organization and implementation
- divert (v.) /daɪˈvɜːt/ – redirect or reallocate
- centralized (adj.) /ˈsentrəlaɪzd/ – controlled by a single authority
- inclusive (adj.) /ɪnˈkluːsɪv/ – including all people or groups
- compromise (v.) /ˈkɒmprəmaɪz/ – negatively affect or undermine
- congestion (n.) /kənˈdʒestʃən/ – overcrowding or traffic
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- Public transportation subsidies for students
- School location and accessibility
- Environmental impact of school transportation methods
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
