Urbanization and its effects on public health have become increasingly significant topics in recent years, frequently appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. This trend is likely to continue, given the global challenges associated with rapid urban growth. Let’s explore this topic through a relevant IELTS question and provide sample essays to help you prepare effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that governments should focus on reducing the negative impacts of urbanization on public health. 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 discussion task. It requires you to:
- Discuss the view that governments should prioritize mitigating urbanization’s negative health impacts.
- Consider the opposing view that other issues are more important.
- Provide your own opinion on the matter.
Let’s examine two sample essays addressing this question, targeting different band scores.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Urban growth has profound implications for public health, leading to debates about governmental priorities. While some argue that addressing urbanization’s health impacts should be a primary focus, others contend that alternative issues demand more urgent attention. In my view, a balanced approach is necessary, with significant emphasis placed on urban health challenges due to their far-reaching consequences.
Proponents of prioritizing urban health concerns highlight the direct and severe impacts of urbanization on public well-being. Rapid urban expansion often leads to overcrowding, inadequate sanitation, and increased pollution, all of which pose serious health risks. For instance, the World Health Organization reports that urban air pollution alone causes millions of premature deaths annually. By focusing on these issues, governments can potentially improve the quality of life for vast numbers of city dwellers and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.
Conversely, those who argue for alternative priorities often point to pressing issues such as economic development, education, or national security. They contend that addressing these fundamental concerns will indirectly benefit public health by creating a more stable and prosperous society. For example, investing in education can lead to a more informed populace better equipped to make healthy lifestyle choices and advocate for healthier urban environments.
In my opinion, while all these issues merit attention, the health impacts of urbanization should be a central focus of governmental policy. The interconnected nature of urban health with other societal challenges means that improvements in this area can have wide-ranging positive effects. By implementing comprehensive urban planning strategies, promoting green spaces, and enforcing stricter environmental regulations, governments can create healthier cities that are also more economically vibrant and socially cohesive.
In conclusion, while there are undoubtedly many important issues for governments to address, the profound and pervasive effects of urbanization on public health make it a critical priority. A holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of urban health with other societal goals is likely to yield the most significant benefits for urban populations and society at large.
(Word count: 307)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Urbanization has big effects on people’s health, and some think governments should focus on this problem. Others believe there are more important things to deal with. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who say urban health should be a priority have good reasons. Cities are growing fast, and this causes problems like pollution and lack of clean water. These issues can make people sick. If governments work on these problems, they can help many people stay healthy. This could also save money on healthcare in the long run.
On the other hand, some people think there are more important things for governments to do. They might say that improving the economy or education is more urgent. They believe that if people have better jobs and education, they can take care of their health better. Also, some might argue that issues like national security are more critical for a country’s well-being.
In my opinion, governments should pay a lot of attention to health problems caused by urbanization, but not forget other important issues. I think it’s possible to work on urban health and other priorities at the same time. For example, creating more parks in cities can improve health and also make the city more attractive for businesses.
To conclude, while there are many important issues for governments to address, I believe that the health impacts of urbanization should be a high priority. However, a balanced approach that also considers other crucial areas is necessary for overall societal well-being.
(Word count: 253)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced presentation of ideas.
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Language: The band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
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Development of Ideas: The higher band essay provides more specific examples and deeper analysis, while the lower band essay presents ideas more generally.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words effectively, but the band 8-9 essay demonstrates more varied and sophisticated cohesive devices.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the band 8-9 essay provides a more comprehensive and balanced discussion.
Essential Vocabulary for This Topic
- Urbanization (noun) /ˌɜːbənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process of making an area more urban
- Public health (noun phrase) /ˌpʌblɪk ˈhelθ/ – the health of the population as a whole
- Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – basic physical and organizational structures needed for society to operate
- Sanitation (noun) /ˌsænɪˈteɪʃn/ – conditions relating to public health, especially the provision of clean drinking water and adequate sewage disposal
- Pollution (noun) /pəˈluːʃn/ – the presence in or introduction into the environment of a substance which has harmful or poisonous effects
- Overcrowding (noun) /ˌəʊvəˈkraʊdɪŋ/ – the state of being filled with too many people or things
- Urban planning (noun phrase) /ˈɜːbən ˈplænɪŋ/ – the process of designing and regulating the use of urban space
- Green spaces (noun phrase) /ɡriːn ˈspeɪsɪz/ – areas of grass, trees, or other vegetation set apart for recreational or aesthetic purposes in an urban environment
- Environmental regulations (noun phrase) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌreɡjuˈleɪʃnz/ – rules and directives made by authorities to protect the environment
- Quality of life (noun phrase) /ˈkwɒləti əv laɪf/ – the standard of health, comfort, and happiness experienced by an individual or group
Conclusion
The impact of urbanization on public health is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key issues and practicing with sample essays like those provided, you can improve your ability to discuss this subject effectively. Remember to analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, and use appropriate vocabulary and examples to support your arguments.
As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with similar topics such as:
- The role of green spaces in urban development
- Strategies for improving air quality in cities
- The challenges of providing healthcare in rapidly growing urban areas
We encourage you to write your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.
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