The topic of urban segregation and zoning has consistently appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in questions asking about advantages and disadvantages. Based on analysis of past exam papers, this theme appears approximately every 6-8 months, making it a high-probability topic for future tests.
Sample Question Analysis
Some people think that it is better to have different areas in a city for different activities (for example: business, housing, and shopping). Others think that it is better to have areas where these activities are mixed together. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss advantages and disadvantages of segregated urban areas
- Compare with mixed-use development
- Present and justify personal opinion
- Provide relevant examples
Urban development showing distinct zones for different activities
Band 8 Sample Essay
Cities worldwide face the ongoing challenge of organizing different activities effectively. While some advocate for strict zoning of urban areas, others prefer integrated development. In my view, while both approaches have merit, segregated zones generally offer more advantages for modern urban living.
Separating different activities into distinct zones presents several clear benefits. Firstly, it enables more efficient urban planning and infrastructure development. For instance, industrial areas can be equipped with specialized facilities without affecting residential neighborhoods. Additionally, this approach reduces conflicts between incompatible activities – manufacturing plants remain distant from schools and homes, minimizing noise and pollution impacts on residents.
However, mixing different activities together also has its advantages. This approach creates vibrant, self-contained neighborhoods where people can live, work, and shop within walking distance. For example, in Singapore’s mixed-use developments, residents can access amenities without long commutes. This integration promotes community interaction and reduces transportation needs.
Despite these benefits, I believe segregated zones are more beneficial overall. The primary advantage is the ability to implement specialized infrastructure and regulations for each area. Business districts can have enhanced security and telecommunications, while residential areas can focus on parks and schools. Moreover, this separation allows for better traffic management and reduces congestion by directing different types of vehicles to specific areas.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Many people have different opinions about how cities should be organized. Some think different activities should be in separate areas, while others prefer everything mixed together. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
Having separate areas for different activities has some good points. When businesses are in one area, it is easier for people to find what they need. Also, when houses are separate from factories, people can live quietly without noise problems. For example, in my city, the industrial area is far from houses, so people don’t hear factory noise.
However, mixing activities together also has advantages. People can save time because shops and offices are near their homes. This means they don’t need to travel far. Also, areas with mixed activities are more lively and interesting. For example, neighborhoods with shops and houses together are usually busy all day.
In my opinion, having separate areas is better. It makes it easier to control pollution and traffic. Also, when similar businesses are together, they can share resources better. But some small shops and services should still be allowed in housing areas for convenience.
Essay Analysis
Band 8 Essay Strengths:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with well-developed arguments
- Effective use of examples
- Natural transitions between ideas
- Band score components: Task Response (8), Coherence & Cohesion (8), Lexical Resource (8), Grammar (8)
Band 6.5 Essay Limitations:
- Simpler vocabulary and sentence structures
- Basic examples
- Less sophisticated arguments
- Limited use of complex grammatical structures
- Band score components: Task Response (7), Coherence & Cohesion (6), Lexical Resource (6), Grammar (7)
Key Vocabulary
- urban planning (n) /ˈɜːbən ˈplænɪŋ/ – the process of designing and organizing cities
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical systems of a country or city
- incompatible (adj) /ˌɪnkəmˈpætəbl/ – unable to exist together harmoniously
- segregated (adj) /ˈseɡrɪɡeɪtɪd/ – separated or divided
- self-contained (adj) /ˌselfkənˈteɪnd/ – complete and independent
- amenities (n) /əˈmiːnətiz/ – useful features or facilities
- vibrant (adj) /ˈvaɪbrənt/ – full of energy and life
- congestion (n) /kənˈdʒestʃən/ – overcrowding or traffic jams
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- The impact of urban planning on community life
- Advantages and disadvantages of suburban development
- The role of green spaces in city planning
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.
