Remote work and its effects on urban infrastructure has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly since the global shift towards remote working during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and The impact of remote work on urban infrastructure, this theme appears in approximately 15% of recent tests and is likely to remain relevant.
The impact of remote work on modern urban infrastructure and city planning
Question Analysis
Some people believe that the rise in remote working will lead to significant changes in urban infrastructure and city planning. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their opinion on the relationship between remote work and urban development
- Support their argument with relevant examples and reasoning
- Consider multiple aspects of urban infrastructure
- Provide a clear and well-structured response
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The widespread adoption of remote work is fundamentally transforming how cities function and develop. I strongly agree that this shift will significantly impact urban infrastructure and planning, as evidenced by changes already occurring in metropolitan areas worldwide.
The primary impact of remote work on urban infrastructure relates to transportation systems. As how remote working affects urban infrastructure shows, reduced daily commuting has led to decreased pressure on public transport networks and road infrastructure. This transformation necessitates a rethinking of traditional urban planning approaches, potentially redirecting resources from expanding transport infrastructure to enhancing digital connectivity and creating more localized community spaces.
Furthermore, the rise of remote work is reshaping commercial real estate and neighborhood development. Many city centers are experiencing reduced demand for office space, leading to the conversion of commercial buildings into residential units or mixed-use developments. This trend is prompting city planners to focus on creating self-sufficient neighborhoods that cater to a population spending more time in their local area, similar to how role of public transportation in reducing urban congestion has influenced modern urban planning.
Moreover, this shift is catalyzing improvements in digital infrastructure. Cities must now prioritize robust internet connectivity and technological infrastructure to support remote workers. This parallels the way how technological advancements are changing healthcare access has transformed urban service delivery.
In conclusion, the rise of remote work is fundamentally altering urban infrastructure requirements and city planning approaches. This transformation presents both challenges and opportunities for creating more sustainable, technologically advanced, and livable cities.
Modern urban planning adapting to remote work trends
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
I agree that remote working is changing how cities are planned and built. These changes are happening in several important ways.
First, remote work means fewer people travel to city centers for work. This means cities need to think differently about roads and public transport. Some cities are already using less money for new roads and more for internet cables and community spaces.
The way we use buildings is also changing. Many offices are empty now because people work from home. Some buildings are being changed into homes or shops. This is making neighborhoods more mixed, with houses and businesses closer together.
Additionally, 5G technology: impact on society shows that cities need better internet and technology. This is important because remote workers need good internet connections to do their jobs properly.
In conclusion, remote work is definitely changing how cities work and grow. These changes affect transport, buildings, and technology infrastructure.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “fundamentally transforming,” “catalyzing improvements”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear argument development
- Relevant examples and supporting evidence
- Cohesive devices used effectively
- Precise language use
Band 6-7 Essay Features:
- Clear but simpler vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Some development of ideas
- Limited use of complex structures
- Adequate cohesion
- Occasional imprecise language use
Key Vocabulary
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical and organizational structures
- Catalyze (v) /ˈkætəlaɪz/ – to cause or accelerate change
- Robust (adj) /rəʊˈbʌst/ – strong and effective in all conditions
- Self-sufficient (adj) /ˌselfséˈfɪʃnt/ – able to provide for oneself
- Mixed-use (adj) /mɪkst juːs/ – combining residential and commercial uses
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section. Consider how future exam questions might explore related themes like smart cities or sustainable urban development.
