Urban sprawl is a pressing issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. As cities expand rapidly, governments face numerous challenges in managing this growth sustainably. This topic has been a recurring theme in recent IELTS exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze high-scoring responses to help you prepare for this important subject.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should focus on reducing environmental damage when trying to address the challenges of urban sprawl, while others believe that other factors are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question presents a classic IELTS Writing Task 2 format, asking you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints and provide your own opinion. The key elements to address are:
- The focus on reducing environmental damage when addressing urban sprawl
- Other important factors in managing urban sprawl
- Your personal stance on which approach is more critical
Sample Essay 1: Band 8 Response
Urban expansion poses significant challenges for governments worldwide, and there are differing opinions on how to best address these issues. While some argue that the primary focus should be on mitigating environmental impact, others contend that additional factors deserve equal attention. In my view, a holistic approach that considers both environmental and socio-economic aspects is crucial for effectively managing urban sprawl.
Those who prioritize environmental concerns in urban planning have valid reasons for their stance. Uncontrolled city growth often leads to the destruction of natural habitats, increased pollution, and higher carbon emissions due to car-dependent lifestyles. By focusing on environmental protection, governments can implement green infrastructure, promote sustainable transportation, and preserve vital ecosystems. This approach not only safeguards the environment but also enhances the quality of life for urban residents through cleaner air and access to green spaces.
However, it is essential to recognize that urban sprawl encompasses a multitude of challenges beyond environmental concerns. Proponents of a broader approach argue that factors such as affordable housing, economic opportunities, and social equity are equally critical in addressing the complexities of urban expansion. These aspects directly impact the lives of city dwellers and contribute to the overall sustainability of urban areas. For instance, ensuring adequate public services, creating job opportunities in suburban areas, and promoting mixed-use developments can help reduce the strain on city centers and improve the overall urban fabric.
In my opinion, while environmental protection is undoubtedly crucial, a comprehensive strategy that balances ecological considerations with socio-economic factors is the most effective way to tackle urban sprawl. Governments should strive to create integrated policies that address environmental concerns while simultaneously improving urban livability, economic resilience, and social inclusivity. This could involve implementing smart growth principles, investing in public transportation networks, and developing compact, walkable communities that reduce the need for extensive outward expansion.
In conclusion, the challenges of urban sprawl require a multifaceted approach that goes beyond solely focusing on environmental damage. By adopting a balanced strategy that considers both ecological and socio-economic factors, governments can create more sustainable, livable, and equitable urban environments for future generations.
(Word count: 345)
Essay Analysis
This Band 8 essay effectively addresses all parts of the question and presents a well-structured argument. Here’s why it achieves a high score:
Task Response: The essay discusses both viewpoints and clearly states the writer’s opinion, fully addressing the task.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is logically organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of linking words.
Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, demonstrating sophistication in language use.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay employs a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors.
Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6.5 Response
Urban sprawl is a big problem for many cities, and governments have to decide how to deal with it. Some people think that the main focus should be on reducing damage to the environment, while others believe there are more important things to consider. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who say environmental protection is the most important thing have some good points. When cities grow too fast, it can hurt nature and cause pollution. If governments focus on the environment, they can make rules to protect green areas and encourage people to use public transport instead of cars. This can help keep the air clean and save animals’ homes.
On the other hand, some people think there are other important things to think about when dealing with urban sprawl. They say that providing enough houses, jobs, and services for people in growing cities is just as important as protecting the environment. If cities expand without good planning, it can lead to problems like traffic jams, not enough schools or hospitals, and people having to travel long distances to work.
In my opinion, both views have good points, but I think it’s better to look at all the problems together. Governments should try to protect the environment while also making sure people have good places to live and work. For example, they could build new houses in areas that are close to public transport and shops, so people don’t have to use cars so much. They could also make rules to help save energy in new buildings.
To sum up, urban sprawl is a complex issue, and focusing only on the environment or only on other factors is not enough. The best way to solve the problem is to consider all aspects and find solutions that help both people and nature.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis
This Band 6.5 essay addresses the task adequately but lacks some of the sophistication and depth found in higher-scoring responses. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses:
Task Response: The essay covers both viewpoints and includes the writer’s opinion, fulfilling the basic requirements of the task.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited and repetitive.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is generally appropriate but lacks the range and precision of higher-band essays.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentence structures are mostly simple, with some attempts at more complex constructions. There are a few minor errors, but they do not impede communication.
Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly but lack the depth and specificity found in Band 7 and above essays.
Key Vocabulary for Urban Sprawl Essays
Urban sprawl (noun) /ˈɜːbən sprɔːl/ – The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural land.
Sustainable development (noun phrase) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations.
Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
Gentrification (noun) /ˌdʒentrɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ – The process of renovating and improving a neighborhood, often resulting in the displacement of lower-income residents.
Zoning (noun) /ˈzəʊnɪŋ/ – The practice of dividing land into areas with specific permitted uses.
Public transportation (noun phrase) /ˈpʌblɪk ˌtrænspɔːˈteɪʃn/ – Forms of transport available to the public, typically managed on a schedule and operated on established routes.
Green belt (noun) /ɡriːn belt/ – An area of open land around a city where building is restricted.
Urban density (noun phrase) /ˈɜːbən ˈdensəti/ – The number of people inhabiting a given urban area.
Smart growth (noun phrase) /smɑːt ɡrəʊθ/ – An urban planning approach that concentrates growth in compact, walkable urban centers to avoid sprawl.
Urban sprawl challenges infographic
Conclusion
Urban sprawl is a complex issue that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To excel in essays on this topic, focus on:
- Understanding the various aspects of urban sprawl, including environmental, social, and economic factors.
- Developing a balanced argument that considers multiple perspectives.
- Using specific examples to support your points.
- Incorporating relevant vocabulary to demonstrate your language proficiency.
Practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The impact of urbanization on rural communities
- Strategies for creating sustainable cities
- The role of public transportation in reducing urban sprawl
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection in urban planning
Remember to time yourself and aim for at least 250 words in 40 minutes. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS aspirants. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!