The topic of whether governments should provide free public transport is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and current social issues, this subject has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays

Analyzing the Task

Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:

Some people think that governments should provide free public transport to reduce traffic and pollution in cities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

This question requires you to:

1. Understand the proposal of free public transport
2. Consider its potential impacts on traffic and pollution
3. Form an opinion on whether you agree or disagree with this idea
4. Support your viewpoint with reasons and examples

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay:

In an era of increasing urbanization and environmental concerns, the suggestion that governments should offer free public transportation to mitigate traffic congestion and pollution is gaining traction. While this proposal has merit, I believe its implementation would be challenging and potentially counterproductive in some aspects.

Undoubtedly, free public transport could yield significant benefits. By removing the cost barrier, it would encourage more people to use buses, trains, and trams instead of private vehicles. This shift could lead to a substantial reduction in traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours in major cities. Moreover, fewer cars on the roads would translate to lower carbon emissions and improved air quality, addressing the pressing issue of urban pollution.

However, the implementation of such a policy faces several obstacles. Firstly, the financial burden on governments would be immense. Public transport systems are already heavily subsidized in many countries, and making them entirely free would require a massive increase in funding. This could lead to higher taxes or budget cuts in other essential areas such as healthcare or education. Additionally, without fare revenues, there might be less incentive for transport authorities to maintain and improve services, potentially resulting in overcrowding and deterioration of infrastructure.

Furthermore, free public transport might not be a panacea for traffic and pollution problems. In some cases, it could lead to overuse of the system, with people taking unnecessary trips or choosing public transport for short distances they might otherwise walk or cycle. This could paradoxically increase energy consumption and emissions. Additionally, for many car users, factors such as convenience, comfort, and flexibility are more important than cost, meaning they might not switch to public transport even if it were free.

In conclusion, while free public transport has the potential to reduce traffic and pollution, its implementation is fraught with challenges. A more balanced approach might involve targeted subsidies for low-income groups, improved service quality, and integration with other sustainable transport options like cycling infrastructure. Ultimately, addressing urban transport issues requires a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond simply making public transport free.

(Word count: 319)

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates several qualities of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:

1. Clear position: The writer acknowledges the merits of free public transport but ultimately disagrees with its widespread implementation.
2. Coherent structure: The essay follows a logical flow with a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both sides, and a conclusion.
3. Developed arguments: Each point is elaborated with explanations and examples.
4. Advanced vocabulary: The essay uses sophisticated words and phrases like “mitigate,” “counterproductive,” and “panacea.”
5. Complex sentences: The writer employs a variety of sentence structures, including complex sentences with multiple clauses.
6. Cohesive devices: Transitions like “however,” “moreover,” and “furthermore” are used effectively to connect ideas.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Here’s a mid-range sample essay:

Many people think that governments should make public transport free to help reduce traffic and pollution in cities. I partly agree with this idea because it has some advantages, but there are also some problems to consider.

Free public transport could have positive effects on traffic and pollution. If buses and trains were free, more people would probably use them instead of driving their cars. This would mean fewer cars on the roads, which would reduce traffic jams and air pollution from car exhaust. For example, in some cities that have tried free public transport, like Tallinn in Estonia, they saw a decrease in car use.

However, there are some difficulties with this idea. The main problem is the cost. Public transport systems need a lot of money to run, and if people don’t pay for tickets, the government would need to find this money somewhere else. This might mean higher taxes or less spending on other important things like schools or hospitals. Also, if public transport is free, it might become very crowded and the quality of service might go down.

Another issue is that free transport might not solve all traffic problems. Some people prefer to use their cars because they’re more convenient or comfortable, not just because of the cost. So even if buses and trains were free, these people might still choose to drive.

In conclusion, while free public transport could help reduce traffic and pollution, it’s not a perfect solution. I think governments should consider other ways to improve public transport and reduce car use, like making bus and train services better or encouraging cycling.

(Word count: 273)

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:

1. Clear position: The writer partially agrees with the statement, which is acceptable.
2. Basic structure: The essay has an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion, but the organization could be more sophisticated.
3. Relevant ideas: The main points are relevant to the question, but they could be developed further.
4. Simple vocabulary: The language used is clear but lacks the sophistication of higher band scores.
5. Mix of sentence structures: There’s a combination of simple and complex sentences, but less variety than in the Band 8-9 essay.
6. Basic cohesive devices: Simple linking words like “however” and “also” are used correctly.

Key Vocabulary

Here are some useful words and phrases from the essays:

1. Urbanization (noun) /ˌɜːrbənaɪˈzeɪʃən/: The process of making an area more urban
2. Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/: Make less severe or serious
3. Counterproductive (adjective) /ˌkaʊntərprəˈdʌktɪv/: Having the opposite effect to the one intended
4. Panacea (noun) /ˌpænəˈsiːə/: A solution or remedy for all difficulties
5. Subsidize (verb) /ˈsʌbsɪdaɪz/: Support financially
6. Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/: Basic physical structures needed for society to operate
7. Deterioration (noun) /dɪˌtɪəriəˈreɪʃən/: The process of becoming progressively worse
8. Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/: Including all or nearly all elements or aspects of something

Conclusion

The topic of free public transport is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, consider practicing with similar prompts such as:

• Do you think making public transport free is the best way to reduce car use in cities?
• Some people believe that improving public transport is more effective than making it free. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of providing free public transport in urban areas?

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about agreeing or disagreeing, but about presenting a well-structured, coherent argument supported by relevant examples. Practice writing essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.