The topic of affordable housing for families is a crucial and recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current global trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to social issues and government policies makes it an ideal candidate for IELTS essays. Let’s examine a specific question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams and explore sample essays at different band levels.
Some people believe that governments should provide housing for families who cannot afford to buy their own homes. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on government intervention in housing. It’s essential to:
- Clearly state your position (agree, disagree, or partially agree)
- Provide reasons and examples to support your stance
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Conclude by restating your position
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The issue of affordable housing is a pressing concern in many countries, with some arguing that governments should take responsibility for providing homes to families unable to purchase their own. While I acknowledge the importance of housing security, I partially agree with this proposition, believing that a balanced approach involving both government intervention and private sector initiatives is most effective.
On one hand, government provision of housing for low-income families can have significant societal benefits. Firstly, it ensures that all citizens have access to a basic human need – shelter. This can lead to improved health outcomes, as stable housing is linked to better physical and mental well-being. Moreover, government-subsidized housing can break the cycle of poverty by providing families with a stable foundation from which to pursue education and employment opportunities. For instance, Singapore’s public housing program has been lauded for its success in providing affordable homes to a majority of its population, contributing to social stability and economic growth.
However, relying solely on government intervention can have drawbacks. The financial burden on the state can be substantial, potentially leading to increased taxes or budget deficits. Additionally, large-scale public housing projects can sometimes result in the creation of isolated, low-income neighborhoods, which may inadvertently perpetuate social inequality. Instead, a more nuanced approach could involve governments working in partnership with private developers to create mixed-income communities, ensuring a more diverse and integrated social fabric.
A balanced solution might include government initiatives such as rent subsidies, low-interest loans for first-time homebuyers, and incentives for private developers to include affordable units in their projects. This approach not only addresses the immediate need for housing but also promotes long-term sustainability in the housing market. For example, the United Kingdom’s shared ownership schemes allow individuals to part-buy and part-rent properties, making homeownership more accessible while also involving private sector investment.
In conclusion, while government intervention in housing is crucial, a comprehensive strategy that combines public and private efforts is likely to be most effective. This balanced approach can ensure that families have access to affordable housing while also promoting diverse, integrated communities and a sustainable housing market.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether governments should provide housing for families who can’t afford to buy their own homes is a complex issue. In my opinion, I agree that governments should play a role in helping these families, but I don’t think they should be fully responsible for providing houses.
Firstly, having a home is a basic need for everyone. When families can’t afford houses, it can lead to many problems. Children might not have a stable place to study, and parents may struggle to keep jobs if they don’t have a permanent address. By helping with housing, governments can improve people’s lives and reduce poverty. For example, in some countries, the government offers low-cost apartments to low-income families, which helps them save money and have a better quality of life.
However, if the government provides all the housing, it could cause some issues. It would be very expensive, and the money would have to come from somewhere, probably higher taxes. Also, people might become too dependent on the government and not try to improve their situation. Instead, I think governments should focus on making housing more affordable in different ways.
One way to do this is by creating laws that control rent prices or by giving financial help to families who are trying to buy a house. Another good idea is for the government to work with private companies to build more affordable homes. This way, the cost is shared, and more houses can be built.
In conclusion, while I believe governments should help families who can’t afford homes, they shouldn’t be the only ones responsible. A mix of government support and other solutions is probably the best way to solve this problem.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
I think the government should help families who can’t buy their own homes. It’s important because everyone needs a place to live. If people don’t have homes, they might have to live on the streets, which is very bad.
One reason why the government should help is because houses are very expensive. Many families work hard but still can’t save enough money to buy a house. If the government helps, these families can have a better life. For example, the government can build cheap houses for poor people. This will make sure everyone has a home.
Another reason is that having a home is good for children. When children have a home, they can go to school regularly and study better. This will help them get good jobs in the future. So, if the government helps with housing, it’s also helping the future of the country.
But some people might say it’s not fair for the government to give free houses. They might think people should work hard to buy their own homes. I think this is partly true. Maybe the government can help people buy houses instead of giving them for free. They can give loans with low interest or help people pay rent.
In conclusion, I agree that governments should help families who can’t afford homes. But they should find ways to help that are fair for everyone. This will make the country better for all people.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Clear position with a nuanced view
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Cohesive structure with clear paragraphing
- Wide range of vocabulary used accurately
- Various complex sentence structures
- Addresses all parts of the task fully
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Clear overall position
- Relevant main ideas but less fully developed
- Some examples provided but less specific
- Adequate range of vocabulary with some errors
- Mix of simple and complex sentences
- Addresses the task but may lack balance or depth
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Position is present but may not be consistent
- Basic ideas relevant to the topic
- Limited development of ideas and few specific examples
- Simple vocabulary with noticeable errors
- Mostly simple sentences with limited complexity
- Attempts to address the task but may be incomplete or unclear at times
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Affordable housing (noun) – /əˈfɔːrdəbl ˈhaʊzɪŋ/ – Housing that is reasonably priced for people with a median income
- Subsidize (verb) – /ˈsʌbsɪdaɪz/ – To support financially
- Intervention (noun) – /ˌɪntərˈvenʃn/ – The act of becoming involved in a situation to improve it
- Social inequality (noun) – /ˈsoʊʃl ˌɪnɪˈkwɒləti/ – Unequal distribution of resources and opportunities in society
- Mixed-income communities (noun) – /mɪkst ˈɪnkʌm kəˈmjuːnətiz/ – Residential areas with a mix of income levels
- Rent subsidies (noun) – /rent ˈsʌbsɪdiz/ – Financial assistance to help people pay rent
- First-time homebuyers (noun) – /ˈfɜːrst taɪm ˈhoʊmbaɪərz/ – People purchasing a home for the first time
- Shared ownership (noun) – /ʃeərd ˈoʊnərʃɪp/ – A system where you part-buy and part-rent a property
- Housing market (noun) – /ˈhaʊzɪŋ ˈmɑːrkɪt/ – The general state of housing availability and affordability
- Low-interest loans (noun) – /loʊ ˈɪntrəst loʊnz/ – Loans with a lower than average interest rate
In conclusion, the topic of affordable housing for families is likely to remain a significant issue in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as government intervention in housing markets, the impact of housing on social equality, and the balance between public and private sector involvement in housing. Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary, and support your arguments with specific examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners.
Should governments control housing prices is another related topic you might encounter in IELTS Writing Task 2. Practicing with various perspectives on housing affordability will help you develop a well-rounded understanding of this important issue.