Urban sprawl and its effects on rural areas have become increasingly relevant topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared in various forms over the years, and its frequency is likely to increase due to ongoing global urbanization trends. Let’s examine a recent IELTS question on this subject and analyze sample essays for different band scores.

Some people think that cities should expand outwards into rural areas to accommodate population growth. Others believe cities should be developed upwards by building taller structures. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Analysis of the Question

This question addresses the issue of urban expansion and its impact on rural communities. It presents two contrasting views on how cities should grow to accommodate increasing populations:

1. Expanding outwards into rural areas
2. Building upwards with taller structures

The task requires candidates to discuss both perspectives and provide their own opinion. This format allows for a balanced argument and personal input, which are key elements in achieving a high band score.

The effects of urban sprawl on the environment and society are significant and should be considered when formulating your response.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Urban growth is an inevitable consequence of population increase, and the debate on how cities should expand is both timely and crucial. While some argue for outward expansion into rural areas, others advocate for vertical development through taller buildings. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective.

Those who support outward expansion into rural zones often cite the need for more living space and the potential for creating new, planned communities. They argue that this approach allows for better urban planning, including the integration of green spaces and modern infrastructure. Additionally, expanding into rural areas can potentially revitalize declining agricultural regions by bringing in new economic opportunities.

On the other hand, proponents of upward development emphasize the importance of preserving rural landscapes and agricultural land. Building taller structures within existing city limits can accommodate population growth without encroaching on valuable farmland or natural habitats. This approach also promotes more efficient use of resources, as it reduces the need for extensive transportation networks and utilities that sprawling cities require.

In my opinion, a combination of both strategies, with a stronger emphasis on vertical development, offers the most sustainable solution. While some outward expansion may be necessary, prioritizing upward growth through well-designed, energy-efficient high-rise buildings can significantly reduce the environmental impact of urban development. This approach not only preserves rural areas but also fosters more compact, walkable cities that can improve quality of life and reduce carbon emissions.

Moreover, focusing on vertical development can lead to innovative architectural solutions that integrate green spaces within urban structures, such as rooftop gardens and vertical farms. These initiatives can help balance the need for urban growth with the preservation of natural environments.

In conclusion, while both outward and upward expansion have their merits, I believe that a carefully planned combination of the two, with a preference for vertical development, offers the best path forward. This approach can accommodate population growth while minimizing the negative impacts on rural communities and the environment.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The question of how cities should grow to accommodate more people is a big issue today. Some think cities should spread out into the countryside, while others say we should build taller buildings in cities. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.

People who support expanding cities into rural areas say this gives more space for housing and new communities. They think it’s good because it allows for better planning of new areas with parks and modern facilities. It might also help rural areas by bringing new jobs and opportunities.

However, those who prefer building taller structures in cities argue that this saves farmland and nature. They say that tall buildings can fit more people without taking up more land. It’s also better for the environment because people don’t have to travel as far, which means less pollution from cars.

In my opinion, I think it’s better to build taller buildings in cities rather than expand into rural areas. This is because it’s important to protect farmland and natural habitats. Also, having more people living closer together in cities can make public transport work better and reduce the need for cars.

Building upwards can also lead to interesting new designs for buildings that include green spaces like roof gardens. This can help make cities nicer places to live while still having enough room for more people.

To conclude, while both ideas have good points, I believe building taller structures in cities is the better choice. It helps protect the countryside and can create more efficient and environmentally friendly cities.

Vertical urban development with integrated green spaces

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic:

• Coherent structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
• Balanced discussion of both viewpoints with well-developed arguments
• Advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures used accurately
• Clear personal opinion with well-supported reasoning
• Effective use of topic-specific vocabulary and concepts

Band 6-7 Essay:

This essay shows good writing skills but lacks some of the sophistication of the higher band essay:

• Clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion
• Discussion of both viewpoints, though less detailed than the Band 8-9 essay
• Good use of vocabulary, but less varied and advanced than the higher band essay
• Personal opinion stated with some supporting ideas
• Some topic-specific vocabulary used, but less extensively than in the Band 8-9 essay

The main differences lie in the depth of analysis, range of vocabulary, and complexity of sentence structures. The Band 8-9 essay provides a more nuanced discussion and demonstrates a higher level of language proficiency.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Urban sprawl (noun) /ˈɜːrbən sprɔːl/ – the uncontrolled expansion of urban areas
2. Vertical development (noun phrase) /ˈvɜːrtɪkəl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – the process of building upwards in cities
3. Encroach (verb) /ɪnˈkroʊtʃ/ – to gradually take away someone’s rights or intrude on their property
4. Revitalize (verb) /riːˈvaɪtəlaɪz/ – to give new life or vigor to something
5. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
6. Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – the basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society
7. Compact (adjective) /kəmˈpækt/ – closely and neatly packed together
8. Innovative (adjective) /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ – featuring new methods; advanced and original
9. Integration (noun) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃən/ – the action or process of combining things in an effective way
10. Preservation (noun) /ˌprezərˈveɪʃən/ – the action of preserving something

How can governments address the challenges of urban sprawl? This question is closely related to our topic and could be a potential future IELTS Writing Task 2 question.

In conclusion, the impact of urban sprawl on rural communities is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments and using appropriate vocabulary, you can craft a well-structured and convincing essay. Remember to practice writing on similar topics, such as the effects of teleworking on urban infrastructure planning, to improve your skills further. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates.