IELTS Writing Task 2: Mastering Essays on Sustainable Urban Development with Band 7-9 Samples

Sustainable urban development is a crucial topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Its relevance to global issues and urban planning makes it a popular choice for examiners. Based on past trends and the increasing importance of sustainability, we can expect this theme to continue featuring prominently in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a typical question related to this topic and analyze how to craft high-scoring responses.

Sustainable Urban Development

Analyzing the Task Question

Let’s examine a common IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:

Some people believe that governments should focus on reducing environmental pollution and promoting sustainable development in urban areas. Others think there are more important priorities for governments to address. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

This question presents a classic IELTS format, asking you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints and provide your own perspective. The topic combines environmental concerns with urban development, making it a complex and relevant issue for discussion.

Sample Essay: Band 8-9 Response

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay addressing the given question:

In today’s rapidly urbanizing world, the debate over governmental priorities has intensified, particularly concerning environmental protection and sustainable urban development. While some argue that these issues should be at the forefront of governmental agendas, others contend that there are more pressing matters to address. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Proponents of prioritizing environmental protection and sustainable urban development argue that these issues are fundamental to long-term human wellbeing and economic stability. They contend that pollution in urban areas leads to severe health problems, reduced quality of life, and significant economic costs. Moreover, sustainable development practices, such as green building initiatives and efficient public transportation systems, can create more livable cities while reducing resource consumption and carbon emissions. By focusing on these areas, governments can potentially mitigate climate change impacts and ensure a better future for their citizens.

On the other hand, those who believe governments have more important priorities often point to immediate socio-economic challenges. Issues such as poverty, unemployment, healthcare, and education are seen as more pressing concerns that directly affect people’s daily lives. Advocates of this view argue that allocating substantial resources to environmental and sustainability projects might divert attention and funding from these critical areas, potentially exacerbating social inequalities and economic hardships.

In my opinion, while both arguments have merit, I believe that environmental protection and sustainable urban development should be integral components of governmental policy. The reason for this stance is that these issues are not isolated from other societal challenges but are inextricably linked to them. For instance, improving air quality in cities can significantly reduce healthcare costs and boost productivity. Similarly, investing in sustainable infrastructure can create jobs and stimulate economic growth while also addressing environmental concerns.

Furthermore, I would argue that governments can and should address multiple priorities simultaneously. By integrating sustainability principles into all aspects of urban planning and development, governments can create synergies that address both environmental and socio-economic issues. For example, developing green spaces in cities not only improves air quality but also provides recreational areas that enhance community wellbeing and social cohesion.

In conclusion, while there are undoubtedly numerous pressing issues for governments to address, I believe that environmental protection and sustainable urban development should be viewed as fundamental priorities rather than optional considerations. By adopting a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors, governments can work towards creating cities that are not only sustainable but also prosperous and equitable for all their inhabitants.

(Word count: 399)

Sample Essay: Band 6-7 Response

Now, let’s look at a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:

In modern times, there is a debate about what governments should focus on. Some people think that reducing pollution and making cities more sustainable should be the main goal, while others believe there are more important things to deal with. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

Those who support focusing on the environment and sustainable development have good reasons. They say that pollution in cities is very bad for people’s health and can cause many problems. Also, if cities are built in a more sustainable way, it can help save resources and reduce the impact on the environment. This could make cities better places to live and help fight against climate change.

However, other people think there are more important things for governments to work on. They point out problems like poverty, lack of jobs, and poor healthcare or education. These issues affect people’s daily lives very directly. They argue that spending too much money on environmental projects might mean there’s not enough left for these other important areas.

In my opinion, I think both environmental protection and other social issues are important, but I lean towards prioritizing the environment and sustainability. This is because taking care of the environment can actually help solve other problems too. For example, if we reduce pollution, people might get sick less often, which could help reduce healthcare costs. Also, creating sustainable cities could create new jobs in green industries.

I also think it’s possible for governments to work on multiple issues at the same time. They don’t have to choose just one thing to focus on. By thinking carefully about how to plan and develop cities, they could find ways to improve the environment and address social issues together.

To conclude, while there are many important issues for governments to deal with, I believe that environmental protection and sustainable urban development should be very high on the list of priorities. By focusing on these areas, governments can create better cities that are healthier, more efficient, and better for everyone who lives in them.

(Word count: 329)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing different viewpoints, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and linking.

2. Language: The higher band essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures. For example, “inextricably linked” and “synergies” in the Band 8-9 essay compared to simpler language in the Band 6-7 essay.

3. Argument Development: The Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and explanations, showing a deeper understanding of the topic. It also presents a more nuanced opinion, acknowledging the complexity of the issue.

4. Cohesion and Coherence: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated linking words and phrases, creating a smoother flow between ideas.

5. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay does so with greater depth and precision.

Important Vocabulary to Remember

1. Sustainable development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet their own needs.

2. Urban planning (noun) /ˈɜːrbən ˈplænɪŋ/ – The process of designing and organizing urban areas.

3. Environmental pollution (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl pəˈluːʃn/ – The introduction of harmful materials into the environment.

4. Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.

5. Socio-economic (adjective) /ˌsoʊsioʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – Relating to or concerned with the interaction of social and economic factors.

6. Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – To make less severe, serious, or painful.

7. Carbon emissions (noun) /ˈkɑːrbən ɪˈmɪʃnz/ – The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

8. Green building (noun) /ɡriːn ˈbɪldɪŋ/ – The practice of creating structures using environmentally responsible and resource-efficient processes.

9. Livable (adjective) /ˈlɪvəbl/ – Suitable for living in; habitable.

10. Holistic approach (noun) /həˈlɪstɪk əˈproʊtʃ/ – An approach that considers all parts of a situation or problem together, rather than dealing with them separately.

Conclusion

Mastering essays on sustainable urban development requires a deep understanding of the topic, strong language skills, and the ability to structure arguments effectively. By studying these sample essays and focusing on key vocabulary and writing techniques, you can improve your ability to tackle similar questions in the IELTS Writing Task 2.

Remember, practice is key to improving your writing skills. Try writing your own essay on this topic or related themes such as how to address the challenges of urban sprawl or how to promote sustainable economic development. You can also explore topics like the importance of sustainable development in urban planning to broaden your understanding of this crucial subject.

Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below. This is an excellent way to get feedback and continue improving your IELTS writing skills. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!