Urbanization and climate change have become increasingly interlinked topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, questions exploring this relationship appear approximately every 4-5 months in actual tests. Recent examples have focused on rapid urban development, environmental consequences, and potential solutions.
The effects of climate change on natural disasters are closely connected to urbanization patterns, making this a crucial topic for IELTS candidates to master.
Analysis of Recent Exam Question
Some people believe that the rapid growth of cities is the main cause of environmental problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires candidates to evaluate the relationship between urban development and environmental issues, particularly focusing on cause-and-effect relationships.
Urban development impact on environment showing modern city skyline with pollution
Model Answer 1 (Band 8.5)
The exponential growth of urban areas has indeed become a significant contributor to various environmental challenges we face today. While I largely agree that rapid urbanization plays a crucial role in environmental degradation, I believe it is one of several important factors rather than the sole cause.
Urbanization undeniably exacerbates environmental problems through multiple mechanisms. Firstly, the construction of cities necessitates the destruction of natural habitats and green spaces, reducing biodiversity and disrupting local ecosystems. Additionally, the concentration of human activities in urban areas leads to increased energy consumption, primarily from fossil fuels, resulting in higher greenhouse gas emissions. The heat island effect, caused by concrete structures and reduced vegetation, further amplifies local temperature increases.
However, it would be oversimplified to attribute all environmental issues solely to urban growth. Industrial activities, regardless of location, contribute significantly to pollution and resource depletion. Furthermore, agricultural practices, particularly intensive farming methods, can cause substantial environmental damage through deforestation and chemical usage. These factors operate independently of urbanization while still impacting environmental quality.
That said, cities can potentially become part of the solution rather than just the problem. Modern urban planning incorporating green technologies, renewable energy systems, and efficient public transportation can significantly reduce environmental impact. Cities like Copenhagen and Singapore demonstrate how urban areas can develop sustainably through careful planning and implementation of eco-friendly policies.
In conclusion, while rapid urbanization significantly contributes to environmental problems, it represents one aspect of a complex issue involving multiple factors. The solution lies not in halting urban growth but in implementing sustainable development practices that balance human needs with environmental protection.
Model Answer 2 (Band 6.5)
I think the fast growth of cities is definitely a big reason for environmental problems, but maybe not the only one. There are other things that also hurt the environment.
When cities grow quickly, they cause many problems for nature. First, many trees are cut down to build houses and roads. This makes animals lose their homes. Also, more cars and factories in cities make the air dirty. The garbage from many people living close together creates pollution problems too.
But we can’t say cities are the only problem for the environment. For example, farming in rural areas can also hurt nature when farmers use chemicals. Also, cutting down forests for wood happens far from cities. These things damage nature even when they’re not in cities.
I think we can make cities better for the environment. We can use better ways to build houses and roads. We can also use buses and trains instead of many cars. Some cities are already doing this and it helps reduce pollution.
To conclude, while growing cities do cause environmental problems, they are not the only cause. We need to look at all the ways humans harm nature, not just in cities, and try to fix these problems.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear progression of ideas with strong cohesion
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Balanced perspective with nuanced discussion
- Excellent paragraph organization
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic argument structure
- Limited use of complex sentences
- Some repetition in ideas
- Adequate but simple cohesion devices
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Exponential growth (n.) /ˌek.spəˈnen.ʃəl/ – Very rapid increase
- Exacerbate (v.) /ɪɡˈzæs.ər.beɪt/ – Make worse
- Biodiversity (n.) /ˌbaɪ.oʊ.daɪˈvɜː.sə.ti/ – Variety of life forms
- Heat island effect (n.) /hiːt ˈaɪ.lənd ɪˈfekt/ – Urban area warmer than surroundings
- Oversimplified (adj.) /ˌoʊ.vɚˈsɪm.plɪ.faɪd/ – Made too simple
- Sustainable (adj.) /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/ – Able to continue over time without damaging environment
In conclusion, this topic remains highly relevant for IELTS candidates. For practice, consider writing about related questions such as:
- How can cities become more environmentally friendly?
- Should governments limit urban growth to protect the environment?
- What role should technology play in creating sustainable cities?
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
