Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Public Transport’s Role in Reducing City Pollution

Public transport and its impact on urban pollution is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared multiple times in past exams and is likely to continue as a relevant subject due to increasing urbanization and environmental concerns worldwide. Based on our analysis of previous IELTS questions, we’ve identified a common question format that addresses this issue:

Some people believe that improving public transportation is the best way to reduce air pollution in cities. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Let’s break down this question and provide sample essays for different band scores to help you understand how to approach this topic effectively.

Question Analysis

This question is asking for your opinion on whether improving public transportation is the most effective method to reduce air pollution in urban areas. Key points to consider:

1. The main focus is on public transportation and air pollution in cities.
2. You need to state your level of agreement or disagreement.
3. You should discuss alternative methods of reducing air pollution to support your argument.
4. Your essay should provide reasons and examples to justify your position.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a high-quality sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:

While public transportation undoubtedly plays a crucial role in reducing air pollution in urban areas, I partially agree that it is the best solution to this pressing issue. Although enhancing public transit systems can significantly decrease vehicle emissions, a comprehensive approach incorporating multiple strategies is necessary to effectively combat air pollution in cities.

Improving public transportation can indeed have a substantial impact on reducing air pollution. By providing efficient, affordable, and accessible alternatives to private vehicles, cities can encourage more people to use buses, trains, and metros, thereby reducing the number of cars on the roads. This shift leads to a decrease in exhaust emissions, which are a major contributor to urban air pollution. For instance, when Seoul, South Korea, invested heavily in its public transportation infrastructure, including expanding its subway system and introducing dedicated bus lanes, the city saw a notable improvement in air quality.

However, focusing solely on public transportation may not be sufficient to address the complex issue of urban air pollution. Other significant sources of pollution, such as industrial emissions and construction activities, also need to be tackled. A multi-faceted approach that combines improved public transit with other measures is likely to be more effective. These additional strategies could include:

1. Promoting clean energy: Encouraging the use of renewable energy sources in industries and households can significantly reduce air pollution from power generation.

2. Implementing strict emission standards: Enforcing rigorous regulations on vehicle and industrial emissions can compel manufacturers to produce cleaner technologies.

3. Urban greening initiatives: Increasing green spaces in cities can help absorb pollutants and improve overall air quality.

4. Encouraging active transportation: Developing infrastructure for cycling and walking can further reduce reliance on motor vehicles.

In conclusion, while enhancing public transportation is undoubtedly a crucial component in the fight against urban air pollution, it should be part of a broader, integrated strategy. By combining improved public transit with other pollution-reduction measures, cities can more effectively address the complex challenge of air pollution and create healthier, more sustainable urban environments for their residents.

Infographic showing how public transport reduces city pollution

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

I agree to a large extent that improving public transportation is the best way to reduce air pollution in cities. Public transport can help decrease the number of cars on the road, which is a major source of pollution in urban areas.

Firstly, better public transportation can encourage more people to use buses and trains instead of driving their own cars. When more people use public transport, there are fewer vehicles on the road, which means less exhaust fumes and cleaner air. For example, in my city, when the government introduced a new metro system, many people started using it instead of driving, and the air quality improved noticeably.

Secondly, public transport vehicles like buses and trains can carry many more people than private cars. This means that even if these vehicles produce some pollution, it is much less per person compared to everyone driving their own car. Also, many cities are now using electric or hybrid buses, which produce even less pollution.

However, while improving public transport is very important, it may not be the only solution to reduce air pollution. Other methods like planting more trees in cities or encouraging the use of bicycles can also help. Additionally, reducing industrial pollution is also necessary to improve air quality in cities.

In conclusion, I believe that better public transportation is one of the best ways to reduce air pollution in cities, but it should be combined with other methods for the best results. Governments should invest in public transport while also considering other ways to make cities cleaner and healthier.

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

This essay demonstrates excellent use of language and a sophisticated approach to the topic, key features of a high-scoring IELTS essay:

1. Clear position: The writer partially agrees with the statement, showing nuanced thinking.
2. Well-developed ideas: Each point is thoroughly explained with relevant examples.
3. Cohesive structure: The essay flows logically, with clear paragraphing and effective use of linking words.
4. Wide range of vocabulary: The writer uses advanced vocabulary accurately (e.g., “multi-faceted approach”, “rigorous regulations”).
5. Diverse grammatical structures: The essay includes a mix of simple and complex sentences.
6. Addresses all parts of the question: The writer discusses both the merits of public transportation and alternative methods.

Band 6-7 Essay:

This essay shows good control of language but lacks some of the sophistication of the higher band essay:

1. Clear position: The writer agrees with the statement but acknowledges other factors.
2. Adequate development: Ideas are explained, but examples are more general.
3. Coherent structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
4. Good vocabulary: The writer uses some topic-specific vocabulary correctly.
5. Mix of sentence structures: The essay includes both simple and compound sentences.
6. Addresses the question: The main points of the question are covered, but with less depth than the Band 8-9 essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Urban pollution (noun) – /ˈɜːrbən pəˈluːʃn/ – Contamination of the environment in city areas
2. Public transportation (noun) – /ˈpʌblɪk trænspɔːrˈteɪʃn/ – Buses, trains, etc. that anyone can use
3. Emissions (noun) – /ɪˈmɪʃnz/ – The production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation
4. Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
5. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
6. Multi-faceted (adjective) – /mʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features
7. Rigorous (adjective) – /ˈrɪɡərəs/ – Extremely thorough, exhaustive, or accurate
8. Integrated (adjective) – /ˈɪntɪɡreɪtɪd/ – With various parts or aspects linked or coordinated

In conclusion, the topic of public transportation and its role in reducing urban pollution is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The pros and cons of car-free zones in city centers
• The impact of urban planning on air quality
• The role of individual actions in reducing urban pollution

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 for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.

Electric buses contributing to reduced urban emissions

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

• Should governments promote remote work to reduce urban congestion
• How public transport can promote social equality
• How technology is transforming public transport

By studying these sample essays and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about public transportation and urban pollution in your IELTS Writing Task 2.