The topic of providing free public transport for students and the elderly is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and current social issues, it’s likely to appear in future tests. Let’s explore this topic with sample essays and in-depth analysis to help you prepare effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that public transport should be free for students and the elderly. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question asks for your opinion on providing free public transport to specific groups – students and the elderly. It’s crucial to:
- Clearly state your position
- Provide reasons and examples to support your view
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Conclude with a summary of your stance
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Public transportation plays a vital role in modern society, and the question of whether it should be free for certain groups, particularly students and the elderly, is a topic of considerable debate. While I acknowledge the potential benefits of such a policy, I believe that completely free public transport for these groups may not be the most effective solution.
Undoubtedly, providing free public transport for students and the elderly could yield significant advantages. For students, it would alleviate financial burdens, potentially increasing access to educational opportunities and reducing reliance on private vehicles, thus easing traffic congestion and reducing carbon emissions. Similarly, for the elderly, free transport could enhance their mobility, social engagement, and access to essential services, contributing to improved quality of life and reduced isolation.
However, implementing such a policy comes with considerable challenges. Firstly, the financial implications for governments or transport authorities could be substantial, potentially leading to reduced investment in infrastructure maintenance or service improvements. This could result in a deterioration of overall service quality, affecting all users. Moreover, a blanket policy of free transport might not be the most efficient use of resources, as it would benefit all students and elderly individuals regardless of their financial situation, potentially diverting funds from those in greater need.
A more nuanced approach might be more effective. For instance, implementing heavily discounted fares for students and the elderly, with further concessions based on income levels, could strike a balance between providing support and maintaining financial sustainability. This approach would ensure that assistance is targeted where it is most needed while still contributing to the upkeep and improvement of public transport systems.
In conclusion, while the idea of free public transport for students and the elderly is appealing, a more balanced and sustainable approach might better serve society as a whole. By implementing targeted discounts and concessions, we can support these groups while ensuring the long-term viability and quality of public transport systems.
(308 words)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a high band score:
- Clear position: The writer disagrees with completely free transport but suggests an alternative.
- Well-developed arguments: Each paragraph explores a different aspect of the issue.
- Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow logically, with effective use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical resource: Advanced vocabulary is used accurately (e.g., “alleviate”, “nuanced approach”, “financial sustainability”).
- Grammatical range and accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used correctly throughout.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The idea of free public transport for students and elderly people is an interesting topic. There are good points for and against this idea, and I will discuss both sides in this essay.
On the positive side, free public transport could help many people. Students often don’t have much money, so free transport would save them a lot. This might help more students to go to school or college. For old people, free transport could help them get out more and stay active. This is good for their health and happiness.
However, there are also some problems with this idea. The biggest issue is the cost. Public transport is expensive to run, and if it’s free for some people, someone else has to pay for it. This might mean higher taxes for everyone. Also, if public transport is free, more people might use it. This could make buses and trains very crowded, which might be hard for elderly people.
Another point to consider is fairness. Some students and elderly people are rich, so they don’t need free transport. It might be better to give free transport only to people who really need help with money.
In my opinion, completely free public transport for all students and elderly people is not the best idea. I think a better solution would be to make transport cheaper for these groups, but not completely free. This way, they still get help, but the system is more fair and can still make some money to run properly.
To conclude, while free public transport for students and the elderly has some benefits, it also has drawbacks. A system of reduced prices might be a better solution that helps people without causing too many problems.
(276 words)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay shows the characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:
- Clear position: The writer’s opinion is stated, though it could be more prominent in the introduction.
- Relevant ideas: The essay covers key points both for and against the proposal.
- Paragraph structure: Each paragraph focuses on a specific idea, though development could be more thorough.
- Cohesion: Basic linking words are used (e.g., “However”, “Also”, “To conclude”).
- Vocabulary: Appropriate vocabulary is used, though more sophisticated terms could elevate the essay.
- Grammar: Sentences are generally well-formed, with some variety in structure.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Public transport (noun) – /ˌpʌblɪk ˈtrænspɔːrt/ – transportation available to the public, typically buses and trains
- Alleviate (verb) – /əˈliːvieɪt/ – to make (suffering, deficiency, or a problem) less severe
- Congestion (noun) – /kənˈdʒestʃən/ – the state of being overcrowded, especially with traffic
- Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – the basic physical and organizational structures needed for operation
- Concession (noun) – /kənˈseʃən/ – a special right or privilege given to a particular group
- Sustainability (noun) – /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain at a certain rate or level
- Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Viability (noun) – /ˌvaɪəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to work successfully or be feasible
Conclusion
The topic of free public transport for students and the elderly is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of various factors. When writing about this topic, it’s important to present a balanced argument, considering both the benefits and potential drawbacks of such a policy. Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
For further practice, consider exploring related topics such as:
- The impact of public transport on urban development
- Sustainable transportation solutions for growing cities
- The role of government in providing public services
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to practice regularly, develop your ideas thoroughly, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures accurately.