Public transportation and its environmental impact is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this topic is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide a high-scoring essay to help you prepare for this important subject.
Analyzing the Task
Let’s consider this IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people believe that using public transportation can help protect the environment. Others think this would not make a big difference. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that public transportation helps protect the environment
- Discuss the opposing view that it doesn’t make a significant difference
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
Public transportation’s role in environmental protection is a topic of ongoing debate. While some argue that increased use of public transit can significantly reduce environmental harm, others contend that its impact is minimal. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.
Proponents of public transportation assert that it can substantially benefit the environment. Firstly, mass transit systems like buses and trains can transport large numbers of people while consuming less fuel per capita than individual cars, thereby reducing overall carbon emissions. Secondly, widespread adoption of public transportation could lead to fewer vehicles on the roads, potentially decreasing traffic congestion and the associated pollution from idling engines. Moreover, the implementation of electric or hybrid public vehicles could further minimize the carbon footprint of urban transportation.
On the other hand, skeptics argue that public transportation’s environmental impact is overestated. They contend that the difference in emissions between public and private transportation is negligible when considering the entire life cycle of vehicles, including manufacturing and maintenance. Additionally, they point out that public transportation systems often run on fixed schedules, sometimes with low occupancy, which can result in wasted energy and resources. Furthermore, they argue that the convenience and flexibility of private vehicles make it unlikely for a significant portion of the population to switch to public transport, limiting its potential environmental benefits.
In my opinion, while the environmental benefits of public transportation may not be as dramatic as some claim, they are nonetheless significant and worth pursuing. The key lies in implementing comprehensive and efficient public transport systems that can genuinely compete with the convenience of private vehicles. By investing in modern, eco-friendly public transportation infrastructure and encouraging its use through incentives and urban planning, cities can indeed make substantial progress in reducing their environmental footprint.
In conclusion, public transportation has the potential to play a crucial role in environmental protection, although its impact depends largely on implementation and adoption. As urban populations continue to grow, developing sustainable transport solutions will become increasingly important for creating livable, environmentally friendly cities.
(Word count: 310)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to a high band score:
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Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points and presents the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and cohesion: Ideas flow smoothly between paragraphs, with effective use of linking words and phrases.
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Lexical resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “carbon emissions,” “traffic congestion,” and “carbon footprint.”
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Grammatical range and accuracy: The essay demonstrates a variety of complex sentence structures used accurately.
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Task response: All parts of the question are fully addressed, with a clear position given in the conclusion.
Key Vocabulary and Grammar Points
When writing about environmental topics, it’s crucial to use appropriate vocabulary. Here are some key terms used in the essay:
- Carbon emissions (noun): The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
- Traffic congestion (noun): A condition on road networks characterized by slower speeds and longer trip times.
- Carbon footprint (noun): The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organization, or community.
- Eco-friendly (adjective): Not harmful to the environment.
- Sustainable (adjective): Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.
For grammar, pay attention to the use of complex structures such as:
- Conditional sentences: “By investing in modern, eco-friendly public transportation infrastructure… cities can indeed make substantial progress…”
- Passive voice: “The difference in emissions between public and private transportation is overestated.”
- Relative clauses: “…public transport systems that can genuinely compete with the convenience of private vehicles.”
Conclusion
The topic of public transportation and its environmental benefits is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government in promoting public transportation
- Comparing different types of public transportation in terms of environmental impact
- Strategies to encourage people to use public transportation more frequently
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
For more insights on environmental topics in IELTS, you might find our articles on the benefits of green spaces in urban areas and the importance of recycling helpful in expanding your knowledge and vocabulary.