Public transportation and its role in reducing emissions is a popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and the growing emphasis on environmental issues, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this important subject.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people believe that governments should invest heavily in public transportation to reduce air pollution. Others think there are better alternative ways to achieve this goal. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that government investment in public transportation can reduce air pollution
- Explore alternative methods to achieve the same goal
- Provide your personal opinion on the matter
Model Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-scoring sample essay addressing the question:
In recent years, the debate over the most effective means to combat air pollution has intensified, with public transportation often at the forefront of discussions. While some argue that substantial government investment in public transit systems is crucial for reducing emissions, others contend that alternative strategies may yield better results. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government-funded public transportation argue that it can significantly reduce air pollution by decreasing the number of private vehicles on the road. Mass transit systems, such as buses, trains, and subways, can transport large numbers of people efficiently, resulting in fewer emissions per capita compared to individual car use. Moreover, investing in electric or hybrid public vehicles can further minimize the carbon footprint of transportation. Cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam have demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach, with their extensive public transit networks contributing to cleaner air and reduced congestion.
On the other hand, skeptics argue that there are more cost-effective and innovative ways to address air pollution. One alternative is to incentivize the use of electric vehicles through tax breaks and infrastructure development, such as charging stations. Another approach is to implement stricter emissions standards for all vehicles, including private cars and industrial machinery. Additionally, investing in urban planning that promotes walkability and cycling can reduce the need for motorized transport altogether. These methods may prove more adaptable to different geographical and cultural contexts than a one-size-fits-all public transportation solution.
In my opinion, while alternative strategies certainly have merit, a comprehensive approach that includes significant investment in public transportation is essential for effectively reducing air pollution. Public transit not only directly lowers emissions but also shapes urban development patterns and individual behaviors in ways that support long-term sustainability. However, I believe this should be part of a multi-faceted strategy that also incorporates elements such as promoting electric vehicles and improving urban design.
In conclusion, while there are various approaches to reducing air pollution, government investment in public transportation remains a crucial component of any comprehensive solution. By combining this with other innovative strategies, we can create more sustainable and livable cities for future generations.
(Word count: 345)
Model Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:
Nowadays, air pollution is a big problem in many cities. Some people think the government should spend a lot of money on public transportation to reduce this pollution. Others believe there are better ways to solve this issue. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, investing in public transport can help reduce air pollution. Buses and trains can carry many people at once, which means fewer cars on the road. If more people use public transport, there will be less pollution from car exhaust. Also, if the government uses electric buses and trains, it can further reduce emissions. Some cities have already done this and seen improvements in air quality.
On the other hand, there are other ways to reduce air pollution that might work better. For example, governments could encourage people to buy electric cars by making them cheaper or providing more charging stations. They could also make stricter rules about how much pollution cars and factories can produce. Another idea is to build more bike lanes and walking paths so people don’t need to use cars for short trips. These methods might be cheaper and work faster than building new public transport systems.
In my opinion, I think both public transport and other methods are important for reducing air pollution. While public transport is very useful, especially in big cities, it’s not the only solution. I believe governments should invest in good public transport systems but also use other methods like promoting electric cars and making cities more walkable. This way, we can tackle the problem from different angles.
To conclude, while public transport is important for reducing air pollution, it’s not the only solution. A combination of different methods, including improving public transport, is likely to be the most effective way to address this serious problem.
(Word count: 295)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
- Introduction: Clearly state the topic and outline your essay structure.
- Body Paragraphs: Discuss both viewpoints thoroughly, using specific examples.
- Personal Opinion: Clearly state your own view, ideally in a separate paragraph.
- Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly.
- Lexical Resource: Employ a range of vocabulary related to transportation and environment.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures accurately.
Vocabulary to Remember
Here are some useful vocabulary items for this topic:
- emissions (noun) /ɪˈmɪʃənz/ – the production and discharge of something, especially gas or radiation
- sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
- incentivize (verb) /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/ – motivate or encourage (someone) to do something
- congestion (noun) /kənˈdʒestʃən/ – the state of being overcrowded, especially with traffic
- carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organization, or community
- urban planning (noun) /ˈɜːbən ˈplænɪŋ/ – the development and design of land use in an urban environment
- multi-faceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
Conclusion
The importance of public transportation in reducing emissions is a significant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments and using appropriate vocabulary and structures, you can craft a strong essay on this subject. Remember to practice writing essays on related topics, such as:
- The role of individual actions versus government policies in reducing pollution
- The impact of urbanization on the environment and potential solutions
- The benefits and challenges of transitioning to renewable energy sources
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the sample question provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS aspirants. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
For more information on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- Benefits of Public Transportation for the Environment
- How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
- The Role of Public Transportation in Sustainable Cities
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to a variety of environmental topics will help you feel more confident and prepared for your IELTS Writing Task 2.