Rural development has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately once every 3-4 months in recent examinations. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, questions about rural development strategies often focus on economic growth, infrastructure development, and population migration patterns. Let’s examine one commonly encountered question type and analyze sample responses across different band scores.
Rural development strategies focusing on education and healthcare in developing nations
Question Analysis
Some people believe that governments should focus on developing rural areas to prevent migration to cities. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires discussing government policies for rural development and their effectiveness in preventing urban migration. The importance of accessible healthcare for rural areas plays a crucial role in this context.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8)
The migration from rural to urban areas has become a significant concern in many countries, leading to debates about government intervention in rural development. While I largely agree that governmental focus on rural development is crucial, I believe this approach requires careful consideration of multiple factors.
Investing in rural development can indeed help curb urban migration through several mechanisms. Firstly, comprehensive infrastructure development, including roads, electricity, and internet connectivity, can create conditions favorable for business growth and job creation. The impact of urban sprawl on rural communities has shown that without such development, rural areas often struggle to retain their population. Secondly, establishing quality educational institutions and healthcare facilities in rural regions ensures that residents need not relocate to cities for these essential services.
However, rural development strategies must be sustainable and context-specific. Simply allocating resources without considering local needs and potential may prove ineffective. For instance, the role of taxation in economic development suggests that balanced fiscal policies are crucial for sustainable rural growth. Moreover, development initiatives should focus on creating economic opportunities that align with rural resources and skills.
In conclusion, while government focus on rural development is essential for preventing urban migration, such efforts must be well-planned and sustainable. The approach should balance immediate needs with long-term development goals.
Strategic planning for rural infrastructure development showing modern facilities
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Many people think governments should develop rural areas to stop people moving to cities. I agree with this idea because it can help solve many problems.
First, rural development can create more jobs in villages. When governments build new roads and factories in rural areas, people can find work near their homes. Also, better schools and hospitals in villages mean people don’t need to go to cities for education and health care. The impact of telemedicine on rural healthcare shows how technology can help rural areas.
However, developing rural areas is not easy. It needs lots of money and good planning. Sometimes, government projects fail because they don’t understand what rural people really need. Also, some people still want to move to cities because they think city life is more modern and exciting.
In conclusion, I think governments should try to develop rural areas, but they must plan carefully and understand local needs. This can help reduce migration to cities and make village life better.
Band Score Analysis
Band 8 Essay Analysis
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with well-developed positions
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary with natural and precise usage
- Grammatical Range: Complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response: Addresses the task but with less development
- Coherence and Cohesion: Basic organizational structure present
- Lexical Resource: Adequate vocabulary but less sophisticated
- Grammatical Range: Mix of simple and complex structures with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- rural exodus (n) /ˈrʊərəl ˈeksədəs/ – migration from rural to urban areas
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical systems of a country
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain level
- comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete; including all aspects
- fiscal policies (n) /ˈfɪskəl ˈpɒlɪsiz/ – government policies about taxes
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Consider also exploring related topics such as rural education reform or agricultural modernization strategies.
