Urban sprawl and its impact on transportation is a frequent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared multiple times in past exams and is likely to continue being relevant due to ongoing urbanization trends globally. Let’s examine a recent IELTS question on this subject and analyze sample essays for different band scores.

Some people believe that the growth of cities and towns is creating serious transportation problems. Others think these problems can be solved. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analysis of the Question

This question addresses the relationship between urban sprawl’s environmental impact and transportation challenges. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that urban growth causes serious transportation problems
2. Explore the perspective that these problems are solvable
3. Provide their own opinion on the matter

Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores to understand how to approach this question effectively.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Urban expansion has undeniably led to significant transportation challenges in many parts of the world. While some argue that these issues are insurmountable, others believe that innovative solutions can effectively address them. In my opinion, while urban sprawl does create serious transportation problems, they can be mitigated through a combination of smart urban planning and technological advancements.

Those who view urban growth as a major cause of transportation problems have valid concerns. As cities expand outwards, commute distances increase, leading to more vehicles on the roads and longer travel times. This not only results in traffic congestion but also contributes to increased air pollution and carbon emissions. Moreover, the infrastructure required to support this sprawl – such as new roads and parking facilities – often struggles to keep pace with rapid urban expansion, exacerbating existing transportation issues.

However, proponents of the solvable perspective argue that these challenges can be overcome through strategic planning and innovative solutions. One approach is the implementation of efficient public transportation systems, such as Bus Rapid Transit or light rail networks, which can significantly reduce reliance on private vehicles. Additionally, the concept of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) encourages high-density, mixed-use development around transport hubs, reducing the need for long commutes and promoting walkability.

Technological advancements also offer promising solutions. The rise of smart traffic management systems, utilizing artificial intelligence and real-time data, can optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion. Furthermore, the growing adoption of electric and autonomous vehicles has the potential to decrease emissions and improve road safety.

In my view, while urban sprawl does pose serious transportation challenges, these are not insurmountable. The key lies in adopting a holistic approach that combines sustainable urban planning with cutting-edge technology. By prioritizing compact city designs, investing in public transport infrastructure, and leveraging smart technologies, we can create more efficient and sustainable urban transportation systems. This approach not only addresses current issues but also paves the way for more livable cities in the future.

Smart urban planning and technology addressing transportation issues

In conclusion, while urban sprawl undoubtedly contributes to serious transportation problems, I believe that with the right strategies and technologies, these challenges can be effectively managed and even turned into opportunities for creating more sustainable and efficient urban environments.

Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)

This essay demonstrates excellent coherence, cohesion, and vocabulary use, justifying a high band score:

1. Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure, addressing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
2. Coherent arguments: Each paragraph develops a specific idea with supporting examples.
3. Advanced vocabulary: The essay uses a range of sophisticated vocabulary relevant to urban planning and transportation.
4. Varied sentence structures: The writing employs a mix of complex and compound sentences, enhancing readability.
5. Effective use of linking words: Transitions like “however,” “moreover,” and “furthermore” improve the flow of ideas.
6. Clear opinion: The writer’s stance is evident throughout, particularly in the conclusion.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The growth of cities and towns is causing many transportation problems in different countries. Some people think these issues are very serious and hard to solve, while others believe there are ways to fix them. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On one hand, urban growth is creating big transportation problems. As cities get bigger, more people need to travel longer distances to work or school. This means more cars on the roads, which leads to traffic jams and pollution. Also, building new roads and parking spaces takes up a lot of land, which could be used for other things like parks or houses.

On the other hand, some people think these problems can be solved. One way is to improve public transportation, like buses and trains, so fewer people need to use cars. Another solution is to encourage people to live closer to where they work or study. This can be done by building apartments and offices in the same areas. Also, new technologies like electric cars and smart traffic lights can help reduce pollution and make traffic flow better.

In my opinion, while urban growth does cause serious transportation problems, I think there are ways to solve them. We need to use a mix of better city planning and new technologies to make our transportation systems more efficient and environmentally friendly. This will take time and effort, but it is possible to make our cities better places to live and travel in.

Efficient public transportation reducing urban congestion

In conclusion, urban growth does create serious transportation issues, but with good planning and new ideas, we can find ways to solve these problems and make our cities more livable for everyone.

Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)

This essay demonstrates good language use and task achievement, suitable for a Band 6-7 score:

1. Clear structure: The essay addresses both viewpoints and includes the writer’s opinion.
2. Adequate vocabulary: The essay uses relevant vocabulary, though less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay.
3. Coherent arguments: Each paragraph focuses on a specific point, with some supporting examples.
4. Simple linking words: Basic transitions like “on one hand,” “on the other hand,” and “in conclusion” are used.
5. Less complex sentences: The writing primarily uses simple and compound sentences, with fewer complex structures.
6. Clear opinion: The writer’s stance is stated, though less elaborately than in the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary for Urban Sprawl and Transportation Essays

1. Urban sprawl (noun) – /ˈɜːrbən sprɔːl/: The expansion of urban areas into previously rural land.

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

3. Congestion (noun) – /kənˈdʒestʃən/: The state of being overcrowded, especially with traffic or people.

4. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.

5. Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) (noun) – /ˈtræn.zɪt ˈɔː.ri.en.tɪd dɪˈvel.əp.mənt/: A type of urban development that maximizes the amount of residential, business and leisure space within walking distance of public transport.

6. Commute (noun/verb) – /kəˈmjuːt/: The journey between home and work or school.

7. Mitigation (noun) – /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/: The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something.

8. Walkability (noun) – /ˌwɔːkəˈbɪləti/: The extent to which an area is friendly to walking.

These vocabulary items can help enhance your essay and demonstrate a good command of language related to urban planning and transportation issues.

Conclusion

The topic of urban sprawl and its impact on transportation is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The environmental impact of urban expansion
• Solutions for sustainable urban development
• The role of public transportation in modern cities
• Balancing urban growth with quality of life

Remember to structure your essay clearly, use relevant vocabulary, and support your arguments with specific examples. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.