The topic of affordable housing in urban centers is a crucial and recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and historical data from reputable IELTS preparation websites, this subject has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular topic in future tests. Given its relevance to global urban development and social issues, it’s essential for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared to address this subject.

Let’s examine a sample question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams:

Some people believe that governments should provide affordable housing in city centers for lower-income residents. Others argue that low-cost housing should be built in the suburbs. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analysis of the Question

This question addresses the debate surrounding the location of affordable housing for low-income residents in urban areas. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss arguments for providing affordable housing in city centers
2. Explore reasons for building low-cost housing in the suburbs
3. Present and justify their own opinion on the matter

The question tests the candidate’s ability to analyze different perspectives, provide relevant examples, and articulate a well-reasoned personal stance.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

The issue of affordable housing location for lower-income residents in urban areas is a complex and contentious one. While some advocate for centrally-located housing, others argue for suburban development. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.

Proponents of city center affordable housing argue that it promotes social inclusion and economic opportunities. By living in central areas, lower-income residents have better access to job markets, public transportation, and essential services. This proximity can reduce commuting costs and time, potentially improving their quality of life and chances for upward mobility. Moreover, mixed-income neighborhoods can foster diverse communities and reduce social segregation, creating a more cohesive urban fabric.

On the other hand, those favoring suburban affordable housing cite lower land costs and the potential for larger living spaces. Suburbs often offer a quieter environment and more green spaces, which can be beneficial for families with children. Additionally, developing affordable housing in suburbs can stimulate local economies and infrastructure improvements in these areas, leading to more balanced urban growth.

In my opinion, a balanced approach combining both strategies would be most effective. While some affordable housing should be integrated into city centers to promote inclusivity and access to opportunities, suburban developments can offer alternative options for those who prefer more space or a different lifestyle. This hybrid model could help address housing shortages while catering to diverse preferences and needs.

Crucially, any affordable housing strategy should be accompanied by robust public transportation networks and equitable distribution of services across urban areas. This would ensure that regardless of location, lower-income residents have access to employment opportunities and essential amenities.

In conclusion, the placement of affordable housing requires careful consideration of various factors. A nuanced approach that combines central and suburban developments, supported by comprehensive urban planning, can create more inclusive, sustainable, and livable cities for all residents.

Comparison of affordable housing in urban centers vs suburbs

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The location of affordable housing for low-income people in cities is a big issue today. Some think it should be in the city center, while others say it’s better in the suburbs. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.

People who want affordable housing in the city center say it’s good because poor people can be close to jobs and services. They can save money on transport and have better chances to improve their lives. Also, it can help create mixed communities where rich and poor people live together, which is good for society.

On the other hand, those who prefer affordable housing in suburbs say it’s cheaper to build there because land costs less. Houses can be bigger, and there’s more space for families. Suburbs are often quieter and have more parks, which is nice for children. Building houses in suburbs can also help develop these areas.

In my opinion, I think both ideas have good points. Maybe we should have some affordable houses in the city center and some in suburbs. This way, people can choose where they want to live based on what they like and need. But it’s important to make sure there are good buses and trains so people can travel easily, no matter where they live.

To conclude, where to put affordable housing is a difficult question. We need to think about many things to make sure everyone has a good place to live, whether it’s in the city center or in the suburbs.

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic, warranting a high band score:

1. Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended ideas.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Uses a range of cohesive devices effectively.
3. Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy.

Band 6-7 Essay:

This essay shows a competent handling of the task, but with some limitations:

1. Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, but some aspects are more fully covered than others.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally arranged coherently, but with some lapses in progression.
3. Lexical Resource: Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some attempts at less common vocabulary.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with generally good control, though with some errors.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Affordable housing (noun) – /əˈfɔːrdəbl ˈhaʊzɪŋ/ – Low-cost accommodation for people with low incomes
2. Urban centers (noun phrase) – /ˈɜːrbən ˈsentərz/ – The central parts of a city or town
3. Social inclusion (noun phrase) – /ˈsəʊʃl ɪnˈkluːʒn/ – The practice of including all members of society in community activities
4. Economic opportunities (noun phrase) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˌɒpəˈtjuːnətiz/ – Chances for financial improvement or success
5. Upward mobility (noun phrase) – /ˈʌpwəd məʊˈbɪləti/ – The capacity or facility for rising to a higher social or economic position
6. Social segregation (noun phrase) – /ˈsəʊʃl ˌsegrɪˈgeɪʃn/ – The separation of different social groups within a society
7. Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – The basic physical systems of a country or region
8. Equitable distribution (noun phrase) – /ˈekwɪtəbl ˌdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃn/ – Fair allocation of resources or services
9. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain level without depleting natural resources
10. Nuanced approach (noun phrase) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst əˈprəʊtʃ/ – A carefully considered method that takes into account subtle differences

In conclusion, the topic of affordable housing in urban centers is likely to remain a significant issue in IELTS Writing Task 2. Candidates should be prepared to discuss various aspects of this topic, including location preferences, social implications, and economic considerations. To practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones such as “rising housing costs and the future of urban living” or “How to address the housing crisis in major cities“. You can share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further improvement.