The topic of encouraging people to use public transportation to reduce pollution is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a real IELTS question on this topic and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that governments should spend money on public transportation to reduce air pollution. Others believe that there are better ways to achieve this goal. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that government spending on public transport can reduce air pollution
- Explore alternative methods to achieve the same goal
- Provide their personal opinion on the most effective approach
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band levels.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Air pollution is a pressing environmental issue that governments worldwide are striving to address. While some argue that investing in public transportation is the most effective solution, others contend that alternative methods may yield better results. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government spending on public transport argue that it can significantly reduce air pollution by decreasing the number of private vehicles on the road. By providing efficient, affordable, and accessible public transportation options such as buses, trains, and metros, authorities can encourage more people to leave their cars at home. This shift would lead to a reduction in carbon emissions and other pollutants associated with individual vehicle use. Moreover, improved public transport infrastructure can stimulate economic growth and enhance urban mobility, creating additional environmental and social benefits.
On the other hand, critics of this approach suggest that there are more effective ways to combat air pollution. One alternative is to invest in clean energy technologies and promote the use of electric vehicles. By offering incentives for purchasing electric cars and developing charging infrastructure, governments can accelerate the transition to zero-emission transportation. Another strategy is to implement stricter emissions standards for industries and vehicles, forcing manufacturers to produce cleaner products. Additionally, urban planning initiatives that prioritize green spaces and pedestrian-friendly designs can contribute to better air quality while reducing the need for motorized transport.
In my opinion, a comprehensive approach that combines multiple strategies is likely to be most effective in reducing air pollution. While investing in public transportation is undoubtedly crucial, it should be part of a broader plan that includes promoting clean energy, implementing strict emissions standards, and redesigning urban spaces. By adopting a multifaceted approach, governments can address the complex nature of air pollution and create more sustainable cities for the future.
In conclusion, while government spending on public transportation is a valuable tool in the fight against air pollution, it should not be viewed as the sole solution. A balanced strategy that incorporates various methods will likely yield the best results in improving air quality and creating more livable urban environments.
(309 words)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a high band score (8-9):
- Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “carbon emissions,” “zero-emission transportation,” and “urban mobility.”
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly, including complex sentences and passive voice.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Air pollution is a big problem in many cities today. Some people think the government should spend money on public transport to solve this issue, but others believe there are better ways to do it. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
People who support spending on public transport say it can help reduce pollution by getting fewer cars on the road. If buses and trains are cheap and easy to use, more people will choose them instead of driving. This means less pollution from cars. Also, good public transport can make cities better places to live and work.
However, some people think there are better ways to reduce air pollution. For example, the government could encourage people to buy electric cars by making them cheaper. They could also make rules for factories and cars to produce less pollution. Another idea is to plant more trees and create parks in cities, which can help clean the air.
In my opinion, I think the best way to reduce air pollution is to use different methods together. Improving public transport is important, but it’s not enough on its own. Governments should also promote electric cars, make stricter rules for pollution, and create more green spaces in cities. By doing all these things, we can make a bigger difference in reducing air pollution.
To conclude, while spending money on public transport can help reduce pollution, it’s not the only solution. A mix of different approaches is likely to be more effective in creating cleaner and healthier cities for everyone.
(269 words)
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 score:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas could be more fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs could be better linked.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used, but there is less sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with generally good control, though there are some errors.
Key Vocabulary
- air pollution (noun) – /eə(r) pəˈluːʃn/ – contamination of the air by harmful substances
- public transportation (noun) – /ˈpʌblɪk trænspɔːˈteɪʃn/ – transport systems available for public use
- carbon emissions (noun) – /ˈkɑːbən ɪˈmɪʃnz/ – release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
- zero-emission (adjective) – /ˈzɪərəʊ ɪˈmɪʃn/ – producing no pollution or harmful emissions
- urban mobility (noun) – /ˈɜːbən məʊˈbɪləti/ – ability to move freely within an urban area
- incentives (noun) – /ɪnˈsentɪvz/ – things that motivate or encourage someone to do something
- emissions standards (noun) – /ɪˈmɪʃn ˈstændədz/ – rules limiting the amount of pollution that can be released
- multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
Should governments subsidize public transport to promote environmental conservation? This topic is closely related to our discussion and provides additional insights into the role of government in promoting sustainable transportation.
Conclusion
The topic of using public transportation to reduce pollution is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The pros and cons of car-free city centers
- Comparing public transport and cycling as eco-friendly alternatives
- The role of technology in reducing transportation-related pollution
Remember to analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
Electric vehicles as a solution to air pollution is another interesting angle to explore when considering alternatives to public transportation for reducing pollution.