The topic of public transportation versus private vehicles has consistently appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam questions from 2018-2023, this theme appears approximately once every four months, making it a highly relevant topic for IELTS candidates.
role of public transportation in reducing urban congestion has become increasingly important as cities worldwide face growing transportation challenges. Let’s examine a recent IELTS Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that governments should invest more money in public transportation systems rather than building new roads for private vehicles. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Analysis of Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their opinion on government spending priorities
- Compare public transportation and private vehicle infrastructure
- Provide relevant examples and supporting evidence
- Maintain a clear position throughout the essay
Sample Essays
Band 8.5 Essay
Many people argue that public transportation deserves greater government funding compared to road infrastructure for private vehicles. I strongly agree with this viewpoint due to its numerous societal and environmental benefits.
Firstly, investing in public transit systems offers significant advantages for urban development and environmental protection. why public transportation should be prioritized over personal vehicles becomes evident when considering that a single bus can transport the equivalent passengers of 30 cars while producing substantially less pollution. Cities like Singapore and Hong Kong demonstrate how efficient public transportation networks can reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality dramatically.
Moreover, public transportation promotes social equity and economic efficiency. By providing affordable mobility options, these systems ensure that all citizens, regardless of their economic status, can access employment opportunities and essential services. For instance, Seoul’s comprehensive subway system enables millions of workers to commute efficiently while reducing their transportation costs significantly.
Alternative fuels for transportation and modern public transit technologies have made these systems increasingly sustainable. Cities investing in electric buses and light rail systems are seeing remarkable reductions in carbon emissions while improving service quality.
In conclusion, prioritizing public transportation investment over road construction represents a forward-thinking approach to urban mobility that benefits society, the economy, and the environment.
Modern public transportation system showing electric buses and metro in urban setting
Band 6.5 Essay
I agree that governments should spend more money on public transportation than building new roads. This is because public transport has many benefits for people and cities.
The first reason is that public transport helps reduce traffic problems. When more people use buses and trains, there are fewer cars on the roads. This means less traffic jams in big cities. For example, in my city, many people waste time in traffic every day because there are too many private cars.
Investment in public transportation vs. roads also helps save money. People spend less money on fuel and parking when they use public transport. Also, should public transit be accessible to all is important because poor people need cheap ways to travel.
Public transport is also better for the environment. Buses and trains make less pollution than many cars. This helps keep the air clean in cities. Many countries are now using electric buses which are even better for the environment.
In conclusion, I think governments should invest more in public transportation because it helps solve traffic problems, saves money, and protects the environment.
Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (9): Clear position, fully developed ideas
- Coherence and Cohesion (8): Logical organization, effective paragraphing
- Lexical Resource (8): Sophisticated vocabulary use (comprehensive, substantial, dramatically)
- Grammar (9): Complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (6): Clear position but less developed ideas
- Coherence and Cohesion (7): Basic organization with some linking
- Lexical Resource (6): Simple but adequate vocabulary
- Grammar (7): Mix of simple and complex sentences
Key Vocabulary
- comprehensive (adj) /kɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete; including everything
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic systems and services
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over time without damaging the environment
- mobility (n) /məʊˈbɪləti/ – ability to move freely
- equity (n) /ˈekwəti/ – fairness and justice in how people are treated
In conclusion, this topic remains crucial for IELTS candidates. Practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- Environmental impact of different transport modes
- Urban planning and transportation
- Public transportation accessibility
- Cost comparison between public and private transport
Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic in the comments section below.
