The topic of public transport reducing urban pollution is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and current environmental concerns, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through a sample question and provide model essays for different band scores.
Public transport reducing urban pollution
Analyzing the Question
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that encouraging the use of public transportation is the best way to reduce air pollution in cities. Others think that there are more effective alternatives. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that promoting public transport is the most effective way to reduce urban air pollution.
- Explore alternative methods to combat air pollution in cities.
- Provide your personal opinion on which approach is more effective.
Model Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay
Air pollution in urban areas is a pressing concern that demands immediate attention. While some argue that promoting public transportation is the most effective solution, others contend that alternative methods might yield better results. In my opinion, a combination of approaches, with a strong emphasis on public transport, is the most viable strategy to combat this issue.
Proponents of public transportation argue that it is the most efficient way to reduce air pollution in cities. This view is supported by several compelling reasons. Firstly, public transport systems, such as buses and trains, can move a large number of people while emitting fewer pollutants per capita compared to individual vehicles. For instance, a full bus can replace up to 40 cars on the road, significantly reducing carbon emissions. Secondly, increased use of public transport leads to fewer vehicles on the roads, which not only reduces direct emissions but also alleviates traffic congestion, a major contributor to air pollution in urban areas.
On the other hand, those who advocate for alternative solutions present valid arguments as well. One such alternative is the promotion of electric and hybrid vehicles. These eco-friendly options produce fewer emissions and, with advancing technology, are becoming increasingly accessible to the general public. Another approach is the implementation of stricter emission standards for industries and vehicles, which can directly target the sources of pollution. Additionally, urban planning strategies, such as creating more green spaces and pedestrian-friendly zones, can help absorb pollutants and reduce the need for vehicle use altogether.
In my view, while these alternatives have merit, encouraging public transportation should be the cornerstone of any urban pollution reduction strategy. Public transport not only addresses the immediate issue of air pollution but also offers broader societal benefits such as reduced traffic congestion, improved mobility for all socioeconomic groups, and more efficient use of urban space. However, I believe that the most effective approach would be to combine this emphasis on public transport with other complementary measures. For example, cities could invest in electric buses and trains while also implementing stricter emission standards and promoting cycling infrastructure.
In conclusion, while there are various methods to combat urban air pollution, a multi-faceted approach with a strong focus on public transportation is likely to yield the best results. By combining the efficiency of mass transit with other innovative solutions, cities can create a more sustainable and breathable urban environment for their residents.
(Word count: 398)
Band 6-7 Essay
Air pollution in cities is a big problem that needs to be solved quickly. Some people think that making more people use public transport is the best way to reduce this pollution, but others believe there are better ways to do it. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
People who support public transport say it can really help reduce air pollution in cities. This is because buses and trains can carry many people at once, which means fewer cars on the roads. For example, one full bus can replace many cars, so there’s less pollution. Also, when more people use public transport, there’s less traffic, which also helps reduce pollution.
However, some people think there are better ways to reduce air pollution. One idea is to encourage people to use electric cars, which don’t produce as much pollution as normal cars. Another way is to make stricter rules for factories and cars about how much pollution they can make. Some people also think that making more parks and places for people to walk in cities can help clean the air.
In my opinion, I think that encouraging public transport is very important, but it’s not the only thing we should do. I believe that the best way to reduce air pollution in cities is to use many different methods together. For example, cities could improve their bus and train services, but also make more bike lanes and encourage people to walk more. They could also plant more trees and make rules for cleaner cars and factories.
To conclude, while making more people use public transport is a good way to reduce air pollution in cities, I think it’s best to use this idea along with other methods. By doing many things at once, cities can really make a big difference in reducing pollution and making the air cleaner for everyone.
(Word count: 309)
Band 5-6 Essay
Air pollution in cities is a big problem. Some people think public transport is the best way to reduce it, but others think there are better ways. I will talk about both ideas.
Public transport can help reduce air pollution. Buses and trains can carry many people at once. This means fewer cars on the roads and less pollution. Also, when there are fewer cars, there is less traffic, which also reduces pollution.
But some people think there are other good ways to reduce pollution. For example, electric cars don’t make as much pollution as normal cars. Another idea is to make stricter rules for factories and cars about pollution. Some people also think making more parks in cities can help clean the air.
I think public transport is important, but we should use other methods too. Cities should have good buses and trains, but also make it easy for people to walk and ride bikes. They should also plant more trees and have rules for cleaner cars and factories.
In conclusion, I think using public transport and other methods together is the best way to reduce air pollution in cities. This can help make the air cleaner for everyone.
(Word count: 183)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Explanation
This essay demonstrates excellent control of language and presents a well-developed response to the question. Key strengths include:
- Coherent structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion with a personal opinion.
- Sophisticated vocabulary: Uses academic words like “proponents,” “viable,” and “societal benefits.”
- Complex sentence structures: Employs a variety of sentence types, including conditional and complex sentences.
- Thorough discussion: Provides detailed explanations and examples for both viewpoints.
- Clear position: The writer’s opinion is clearly stated and well-supported.
- Cohesive devices: Uses linking words effectively to create a flowing argument.
Band 6-7 Essay Explanation
This essay shows a good attempt at addressing all parts of the task. Its strengths include:
- Adequate structure: Has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Relevant ideas: Presents relevant points for both viewpoints.
- Personal opinion: Clearly states the writer’s opinion.
- Some complex sentences: Attempts to use more complex structures, though not always successfully.
- Basic vocabulary: Uses some topic-specific vocabulary.
Areas for improvement include developing ideas more fully and using more sophisticated language structures.
Band 5-6 Essay Explanation
This essay addresses the task but in a simple way. Its characteristics include:
- Basic structure: Has a simple introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Simple language: Uses mostly simple sentences and basic vocabulary.
- Limited development: Ideas are present but not fully explained or supported.
- Opinion given: States a personal opinion, but it’s not well-developed.
- Repetitive: Some ideas and phrases are repeated.
To improve, the writer should focus on expanding ideas, using more complex sentence structures, and incorporating more sophisticated vocabulary.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Urban pollution (noun) /ˈɜːrbən pəˈluːʃn/: Contamination of city environments
- Public transportation (noun) /ˈpʌblɪk trænspɔːrˈteɪʃn/: Buses, trains, etc. for public use
- Emission standards (noun) /ɪˈmɪʃn ˈstændərdz/: Rules for acceptable pollution levels
- Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/: Not harmful to the environment
- Congestion (noun) /kənˈdʒestʃən/: Overcrowding, especially of traffic
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain level
- Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/: Basic physical systems of a country or city
- Carbon emissions (noun) /ˈkɑːrbən ɪˈmɪʃnz/: Release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
- Urban planning (noun) /ˈɜːrbən ˈplænɪŋ/: The process of designing and organizing urban areas
- Air quality (noun) /eər ˈkwɒləti/: The degree to which the air is suitable for breathing
Conclusion
The topic of public transport reducing urban pollution is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments and having a range of vocabulary at your disposal, you can approach this topic with confidence. Remember to practice writing essays on related themes, such as:
- The role of individual actions in reducing urban pollution
- Government policies to combat air pollution in cities
- The impact of urbanization on environmental quality
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection in urban areas
To further improve your skills, try writing an essay on the sample question provided in this article and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing abilities and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
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