Overpopulation in cities is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing frequently in past exams and likely to remain relevant in future tests. This topic allows candidates to showcase their understanding of urban challenges and propose solutions, making it a favorite among examiners. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze high-scoring responses.

Some people believe that governments should focus on reducing the number of people living in cities to solve overpopulation. Others think there are better alternative solutions. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that reducing urban populations is the best solution
2. Explore alternative solutions to urban overpopulation
3. Provide a personal opinion on the most effective approach

Now, let’s examine sample essays for different band scores.

Band 8-9 Sample Essay

Urban overpopulation is a pressing issue facing many countries today. While some argue that governments should prioritize reducing city populations, others contend that alternative solutions are more effective. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on the matter.

Those who advocate for population reduction in cities often point to the immediate benefits this approach could bring. By encouraging people to move to rural areas or smaller towns, overcrowding in metropolitan areas could be alleviated, leading to reduced strain on infrastructure and public services. For instance, relocating families to less densely populated regions could ease the burden on oversubscribed schools and hospitals in major cities. Additionally, this strategy might help revitalize declining rural communities, creating a more balanced distribution of the population across the country.

Overcrowded City Street

However, critics of this approach argue that there are more practical and sustainable solutions to urban overpopulation. One alternative is to focus on improving urban planning and infrastructure to accommodate growing populations more effectively. This could involve developing smart cities with efficient public transportation systems, vertical gardens, and mixed-use zoning to optimize space utilization. Another solution is to invest in satellite cities or suburban areas connected to the main urban center, allowing for population dispersal without forcing people to move to entirely different regions.

In my opinion, while reducing city populations may offer some short-term relief, it is not a comprehensive solution to the complex issue of urban overpopulation. I believe a multifaceted approach that combines improved urban planning, investment in infrastructure, and the development of satellite cities is more likely to yield long-term, sustainable results. This strategy would allow cities to accommodate growing populations while enhancing quality of life and preserving economic opportunities that attract people to urban areas in the first place.

Sustainable City Concept

In conclusion, addressing urban overpopulation requires a nuanced approach that goes beyond simply reducing city populations. By implementing innovative urban planning strategies and developing surrounding areas, governments can create more livable cities capable of sustaining larger populations without compromising on quality of life.

(Word count: 329)

Band 8-9 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates excellent command of English and addresses all parts of the question effectively:

1. Task Response (Band 8-9): The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended ideas. It discusses both views and clearly states a personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion (Band 8-9): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphing is well-managed, and a range of cohesive devices is used effectively.

3. Lexical Resource (Band 8-9): A wide range of vocabulary is used with full flexibility and precision. Uncommon lexical items are used naturally and accurately (e.g., “multifaceted approach,” “satellite cities”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 8-9): A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and control. Complex sentences are frequent and error-free.

Band 6-7 Sample Essay

Nowadays, many big cities are facing the problem of overpopulation. Some people think that governments should try to reduce the number of people living in cities to solve this issue, but others believe there are better ways to deal with it. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my own opinion.

On the one hand, reducing the number of people in cities could help solve some problems caused by overpopulation. If fewer people lived in cities, there would be less traffic, less pollution, and more space for everyone. For example, if some people moved to the countryside, it might be easier to find apartments and houses in the city. Also, public services like hospitals and schools might not be so crowded.

On the other hand, there are other solutions that might work better than just trying to make people leave cities. One idea is to improve city planning and build better infrastructure. This means making cities more efficient and able to handle more people. For instance, governments could invest in better public transportation systems or build taller buildings to save space. Another solution could be to create new job opportunities in smaller towns so that people don’t all have to move to big cities for work.

Modern City Skyline with Public Transport

In my opinion, I think it’s better to focus on improving cities and creating opportunities in other areas rather than just trying to reduce city populations. Many people move to cities for good reasons, like better jobs or education, so it’s not always practical to make them leave. Instead, making cities more livable and developing other areas might be a more effective way to address overpopulation.

To conclude, while reducing city populations might help with some problems, I believe that improving urban planning and developing other areas are better long-term solutions to the issue of overpopulation in cities.

(Word count: 309)

Band 6-7 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates a good command of English but lacks some of the sophistication seen in the Band 8-9 essay:

1. Task Response (Band 6-7): The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position. However, some ideas could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion (Band 6-7): There is a clear overall progression, but cohesive devices are not always used effectively. Paragraphing is evident but not always logical.

3. Lexical Resource (Band 6-7): An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task. There are attempts to use less common vocabulary, but with some inaccuracy.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 6-7): A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Urban overpopulation (noun phrase) – /ˈɜːbən ˌəʊvəˌpɒpjʊˈleɪʃn/ – Excessive population in city areas
2. Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – Basic physical systems of a country or region
3. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain level without depleting resources
4. Revitalize (verb) – /riːˈvaɪtəlaɪz/ – To give new life or vigor to
5. Satellite cities (noun phrase) – /ˈsætəlaɪt ˈsɪtiz/ – Smaller metropolitan areas located near larger ones
6. Mixed-use zoning (noun phrase) – /mɪkst juːz ˈzəʊnɪŋ/ – Urban planning that blends residential, commercial, and industrial uses
7. Multifaceted approach (noun phrase) – /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd əˈprəʊtʃ/ – A strategy considering many aspects of a problem
8. Vertical gardens (noun phrase) – /ˈvɜːtɪkl ˈɡɑːdnz/ – Gardens grown on the sides of buildings or structures

In conclusion, addressing urban overpopulation is a complex challenge that requires innovative thinking and comprehensive strategies. As you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2, consider practicing with similar topics such as:

• The impact of urbanization on the environment
• Strategies for creating sustainable cities
• The role of technology in solving urban challenges
• Balancing urban development with preservation of green spaces

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further improvement!

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