The topic of public transportation’s role in reducing emissions has gained significant traction in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Given the global focus on climate change and sustainable urban development, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in past exams and is likely to resurface:
Some people believe that governments should invest more money in improving roads and highways. Others think that this money should be spent on improving public transportation. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question touches on a crucial debate in urban planning and environmental policy. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the viewpoint favoring road infrastructure investment
- Explore the perspective supporting public transportation improvement
- Provide a personal opinion with justification
The topic indirectly relates to emissions reduction, as improved public transportation often leads to decreased private vehicle usage and, consequently, lower emissions.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Public infrastructure investment is a critical aspect of government spending, with opinions divided between improving roads and enhancing public transportation. While both approaches have their merits, I believe that prioritizing public transport development is more beneficial for society and the environment in the long run.
Proponents of road improvement argue that better highways and streets can alleviate traffic congestion, reduce travel times, and stimulate economic growth. Enhanced road networks can facilitate smoother transportation of goods, potentially boosting commerce and industry. Moreover, in many rural areas, improved roads are essential for providing access to essential services and connecting remote communities to urban centers.
On the other hand, advocates for public transportation investment emphasize its potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions and alleviate urban congestion. Efficient public transit systems, such as buses, trains, and trams, can transport large numbers of people while occupying less space and consuming fewer resources per capita than private vehicles. This not only contributes to cleaner air and reduced noise pollution but also promotes social equity by providing affordable mobility options for all socioeconomic groups.
In my opinion, while road infrastructure remains important, the advantages of investing in public transportation far outweigh those of road expansion, particularly in urban areas. Improved public transit can lead to a paradigm shift in how people commute, encouraging a move away from car dependency and towards more sustainable modes of transport. This shift not only addresses environmental concerns but also promotes healthier lifestyles through increased walking and cycling as part of multi-modal journeys.
Furthermore, as cities grow and space becomes increasingly scarce, the efficiency of public transportation in moving large numbers of people becomes paramount. Investment in state-of-the-art public transit systems can transform urban landscapes, reducing the need for extensive parking spaces and allowing for the development of more green areas and community spaces.
In conclusion, while road improvement has its place, especially in rural development, I firmly believe that governments should prioritize investment in public transportation. This approach not only addresses immediate transportation needs but also aligns with long-term goals of sustainability, urban livability, and emission reduction.
(Word count: 345)
Public Transport Investment
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The debate between investing in roads or public transportation is important for many countries. Both options have good points, but I think public transportation is better for most cities.
People who want more money for roads say it can help reduce traffic jams and make driving easier. Better roads can help trucks move goods faster, which is good for business. Also, in some rural areas, good roads are needed to connect small towns to big cities.
On the other side, people who support public transportation say it can help reduce pollution and traffic in cities. Buses and trains can carry many people at once, which means fewer cars on the road. This can make the air cleaner and cities quieter. Public transport is also cheaper for many people to use.
I believe that improving public transportation is better, especially in big cities. When public transport is good, more people will use it instead of driving cars. This can help reduce air pollution and make cities nicer places to live. Good public transport can also help poor people travel more easily, which is fair for everyone.
Another good thing about public transport is that it doesn’t need as much space as lots of cars. This means cities can have more parks and less parking lots. As cities get bigger, this becomes more important.
In conclusion, while better roads are sometimes needed, I think governments should spend more money on public transportation. This will help make cities cleaner, less crowded, and better for everyone in the long run.
(Word count: 269)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Many people have different ideas about how governments should spend money on transportation. Some think roads should be improved, while others say public transport is more important. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who want better roads say it can help reduce traffic problems. When roads are good, cars and trucks can move faster. This is good for business because products can be transported quickly. Also, in some places, good roads are needed to connect small towns to big cities.
On the other hand, people who support public transport say it can help reduce pollution. Buses and trains can carry many people at once, which means fewer cars on the road. This can make the air cleaner. Public transport is also cheaper for many people to use.
I think public transport is better for most cities. When buses and trains are good, more people will use them instead of driving cars. This can help make the air cleaner and cities less crowded. It’s also fair because poor people can travel easily too.
In conclusion, while roads are sometimes important, I believe governments should spend more money on public transport. This will help make cities better places to live in the future.
(Word count: 209)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Clear organization with well-developed ideas
- A nuanced understanding of the topic, exploring multiple perspectives
- Strong coherence and cohesion throughout
- A well-supported personal opinion
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows:
- Good vocabulary with some attempt at more complex expressions
- Clear overall structure, though paragraphs are less developed
- Understanding of the main issues, but less depth in analysis
- Generally coherent, with some linking words
- A clear opinion, though less thoroughly supported
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay exhibits:
- Basic vocabulary with some repetition
- Simple sentence structures
- A basic understanding of the topic, but limited development of ideas
- Some organization, but less coherent overall
- A personal opinion, but with minimal support
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Infrastructure (noun) /ˌɪnfrəˈstrʌktʃər/ – The basic systems and services that a country or organization uses in order to work effectively
- Alleviate (verb) /əˈliːvieɪt/ – To make something less severe
- Congestion (noun) /kənˈdʒestʃən/ – The state of being crowded and full of traffic
- Paradigm shift (noun) /ˈpærədaɪm ʃɪft/ – A fundamental change in approach or underlying assumptions
- Multi-modal (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈməʊdl/ – Characterized by several different modes of activity or occurrence
- Livability (noun) /ˌlɪvəˈbɪləti/ – The quality of being suitable for living in
- Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Socioeconomic (adjective) /ˌsəʊsioʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – Relating to or concerned with the interaction of social and economic factors
Conclusion
The topic of public transportation and its role in reducing emissions is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare, consider practicing with related topics such as:
- The environmental impact of different modes of transport
- Government policies to encourage the use of public transportation
- The role of technology in improving public transport systems
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection in urban planning
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about memorizing sample essays, but understanding the underlying issues and being able to articulate your thoughts clearly and coherently. Practice writing your own essays on these topics and feel free to share them in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you develop the skills needed to excel in your IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, you might find our articles on the importance of electric vehicles in emissions reduction and renewable energy for reducing global carbon emissions helpful in broadening your understanding of environmental issues often discussed in IELTS essays.