Rising inequality in cities has become a pressing issue in recent years, and it’s no surprise that this topic has appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on the analysis of past IELTS exams and current global trends, it’s highly likely that questions related to urban inequality will continue to be featured in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays for different band scores, focusing on a question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that governments should focus on reducing economic inequality in cities, while others think that other issues are more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that governments should prioritize reducing economic inequality in cities
- Present alternative views on what issues governments should focus on
- Provide their personal opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores to understand how to approach this topic effectively.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Economic disparity in urban areas has become a growing concern for many, leading to debates about governmental priorities. While some argue that addressing this inequality should be at the forefront of urban policy, others contend that alternative issues demand more immediate attention. In my opinion, while reducing economic inequality is crucial, a balanced approach addressing multiple urban challenges simultaneously is most effective.
Proponents of focusing on economic inequality argue that the widening gap between the rich and poor in cities leads to numerous social problems. They believe that by prioritizing this issue, governments can create more inclusive urban environments, reduce crime rates, and improve overall quality of life for all citizens. For instance, investing in affordable housing and education in disadvantaged neighborhoods can provide opportunities for upward mobility and break the cycle of poverty.
On the other hand, those who believe other issues are more pressing often point to immediate challenges such as infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, or public health. They argue that addressing these concerns will indirectly benefit all city dwellers, including those affected by economic inequality. For example, improving public transportation can enhance job accessibility for lower-income residents while also reducing traffic congestion and pollution.
In my view, the most effective approach is to address economic inequality as part of a comprehensive urban development strategy. Governments should recognize that urban issues are interconnected and that focusing solely on one aspect may neglect other critical areas. By implementing policies that promote inclusive economic growth while simultaneously investing in infrastructure, education, and sustainable development, cities can create a more balanced and equitable urban environment.
For instance, Singapore’s public housing policy is an excellent example of how addressing economic inequality can be integrated into broader urban planning. By providing affordable housing options for a majority of its population, Singapore has not only reduced inequality but also fostered social cohesion and community development.
In conclusion, while reducing economic inequality in cities is undoubtedly important, it should not come at the expense of neglecting other crucial urban issues. A holistic approach that considers the complex interplay between various urban challenges is more likely to create sustainable, livable cities for all residents.
(Word count: 339)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high band score (8-9) for several reasons:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms and idiomatic expressions.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Economic inequality in cities is a topic of debate among policymakers. Some people think governments should focus on reducing this inequality, while others believe there are more important issues to address. This essay will discuss both viewpoints and provide my opinion.
Those who support focusing on economic inequality argue that it causes many problems in cities. They think that the gap between rich and poor people leads to social issues like crime and poor health. For example, if poor people can’t afford good housing or education, they might turn to crime or have health problems. Governments could help by providing more affordable housing and better schools in poor areas.
On the other hand, some people think other issues are more important for cities. They might say that things like traffic, pollution, or lack of green spaces are bigger problems that affect everyone in the city, not just poor people. They believe that solving these issues will make the city better for all residents, including those with low incomes.
In my opinion, governments should try to address both economic inequality and other urban issues. I think these problems are connected, and solving one can help with the others. For instance, improving public transportation can help poor people get to better jobs, which reduces inequality. At the same time, it can also reduce traffic and pollution, which are good for everyone.
To conclude, while economic inequality is a serious issue in cities, I believe governments should not focus on it alone. A balanced approach that addresses multiple urban problems is likely to be more effective in creating better cities for all residents.
(Word count: 269)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a mid-range band score (6-7) for the following reasons:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, but lacks the sophistication of the Band 8-9 essay.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented with some supporting examples, but they are less elaborated and specific compared to the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Economic inequality (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɪnɪˈkwɒləti/ – The unequal distribution of income and opportunity between different groups in society.
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Urban development (noun) /ˈɜːbən dɪˈveləpmənt/ – The growth and renewal of urban areas.
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Affordable housing (noun) /əˈfɔːdəbl ˈhaʊzɪŋ/ – Housing that is deemed affordable to those with a median household income.
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Social cohesion (noun) /ˈsəʊʃl kəʊˈhiːʒn/ – The willingness of members of a society to cooperate with each other.
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Upward mobility (noun) /ˈʌpwəd məʊˈbɪləti/ – The capacity or facility for rising to a higher social or economic position.
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Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
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Sustainable development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
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Holistic approach (noun) /həˈlɪstɪk əˈprəʊtʃ/ – An approach that takes into account all of the elements or parts of something as interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole.
Conclusion
Addressing rising inequality in cities is a complex topic that requires careful consideration of various factors. As we’ve seen in the sample essays, there are different approaches to tackling this issue, each with its own merits. To prepare for potential IELTS Writing Task 2 questions on this topic, consider practicing with similar prompts, such as:
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“Some people believe that economic growth is the key to reducing inequality in cities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”
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“Discuss the main causes of rising inequality in urban areas and suggest some possible solutions.”
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“In many cities, the gap between rich and poor neighborhoods is increasing. What problems does this cause, and how can these problems be addressed?”
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your ideas with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!