Overcrowding and its impact on public services is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam papers and trends, this topic has appeared frequently in various forms, particularly in relation to urban development and population growth. Similarly to Immigration policies and their effects, this theme continues to be relevant in today’s rapidly urbanizing world.
Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
In many cities, the growing population is putting pressure on public services such as transportation, healthcare, and education. What problems does this cause? What solutions can you suggest?
Analysis of the Question
This question requires a problem-solution approach, focusing on:
- Identifying specific issues caused by population pressure on public services
- Proposing practical solutions to address these challenges
- Supporting arguments with relevant examples
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
The surge in urban populations has created significant strain on public infrastructure, leading to numerous challenges in service delivery. This essay will examine these problems and propose viable solutions.
The primary issues stemming from overcrowding of public services are manifold. Firstly, transportation systems become overwhelmed, resulting in lengthy commute times and uncomfortable traveling conditions. For instance, in cities like Mumbai, trains and buses operate well beyond their intended capacity, compromising both safety and efficiency. Additionally, healthcare facilities face severe pressure, with patients experiencing extended waiting times for treatments and reduced quality of care due to overwhelmed medical staff. Educational institutions similarly suffer, as overcrowded classrooms diminish the quality of learning and individual attention students receive.
To address these challenges, several solutions warrant consideration. One crucial approach involves implementing smart city technologies to optimize service delivery. For example, digital traffic management systems can improve transportation efficiency, while telemedicine platforms can help distribute healthcare resources more effectively. Furthermore, governments should prioritize infrastructure expansion through public-private partnerships, enabling the construction of new hospitals, schools, and transportation networks. This strategy has proven successful in cities like Singapore, where systematic urban planning has helped maintain service quality despite population growth.
Just as effects of high inflation on economy require careful management, addressing public service overcrowding demands comprehensive planning and sustained investment.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many cities face problems because too many people use public services. This situation causes many problems and needs solutions.
The main problem is that public services cannot work well when too many people use them. For example, when too many people take buses and trains, they become very crowded and people have to wait for a long time. Also, hospitals have too many patients, so people must wait many hours to see doctors. Schools also have too many students in one class, so teachers cannot teach well.
I think there are some ways to solve these problems. First, the government should build more facilities like hospitals and schools. This will help more people get services. Second, they should make better systems to manage these services. For example, they can use computers to make booking systems for hospitals. Also, they should hire more staff to help provide services.
Similar to how the pros and cons of offering free public transportation affect city planning, managing overcrowding requires careful consideration of various factors.
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.0 Essay:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with well-developed ideas
- Effective use of examples
- Coherent paragraphing
- Natural linking devices
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Simple but clear language
- Basic organization
- Limited range of vocabulary
- Some repetition
- Simple examples
Key Vocabulary
- surge (n) /sɜːdʒ/ – sudden increase
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical systems
- manifold (adj) /ˈmænɪfəʊld/ – many and various
- overwhelmed (adj) /ˌəʊvəˈwelmd/ – overcome completely
- viable (adj) /ˈvaɪəbl/ – capable of working successfully
- optimization (n) /ˌɒptɪmaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – making the best use of
- systematic (adj) /ˌsɪstəˈmætɪk/ – methodical and organized
Solutions for improving public services in overcrowded cities
For further practice, consider writing about these related topics:
- The impact of overcrowding on environmental sustainability
- The role of technology in managing public services
- Urban planning strategies for population growth
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
