Overpopulation and its effects on urban infrastructure is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared in various forms over the past few years and is likely to continue being relevant due to increasing urbanization worldwide. Based on an analysis of past IELTS exams and current global trends, we can expect to see questions related to this theme in future tests. Let’s examine a sample question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams:
Some people believe that governments should invest heavily in improving roads and highways to deal with the increasing traffic in many major cities. Others think that governments should instead focus on improving public transportation. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question addresses the impact of overpopulation on urban infrastructure, specifically focusing on transportation issues. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
The question presents two contrasting views on how governments should address urban traffic congestion:
- Investing in road and highway improvements
- Focusing on enhancing public transportation
To answer this question effectively, you should:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Provide arguments for each view
- Present your own opinion
- Support your ideas with relevant examples
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
As cities grow and populations increase, traffic congestion has become a major challenge for urban planners and governments. While some argue for substantial investments in road infrastructure, others advocate for improved public transportation systems. In my opinion, a balanced approach that prioritizes public transport while maintaining existing road networks is the most effective solution.
Those who support road expansion argue that it directly addresses the immediate problem of traffic congestion. Wider roads and more highways can accommodate a larger volume of vehicles, potentially reducing travel times and improving traffic flow. Moreover, better road infrastructure can facilitate economic growth by enabling more efficient transportation of goods and services. For example, cities like Los Angeles have invested heavily in freeway systems, which has helped manage the city’s sprawling nature and car-dependent culture.
On the other hand, proponents of public transportation argue that it offers a more sustainable and long-term solution to urban congestion. Efficient public transport systems can move large numbers of people quickly and with less environmental impact than private vehicles. Cities like Tokyo and Singapore have demonstrated that comprehensive public transit networks can significantly reduce reliance on cars and improve overall urban mobility. Furthermore, public transportation is more inclusive, providing affordable mobility options for all socioeconomic groups.
In my view, while both approaches have merit, investing in public transportation should be the priority. This is because it addresses not only congestion but also environmental concerns and social equity. However, this should not come at the complete expense of road maintenance and strategic improvements. A balanced approach would involve:
- Expanding and improving public transport networks (buses, trains, and metros)
- Implementing transit-oriented development to encourage use of public transport
- Maintaining existing road infrastructure to ensure safety and efficiency
- Selectively upgrading roads and highways where absolutely necessary
By focusing on public transportation while still maintaining essential road infrastructure, cities can create more sustainable, efficient, and inclusive urban environments. This approach not only alleviates traffic congestion but also contributes to reduced air pollution and improved quality of life for urban residents.
(Word count: 329)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In many big cities, traffic is becoming a serious problem. Some people think the government should spend a lot of money on making roads better, while others believe improving public transport is more important. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
People who support better roads say it can help reduce traffic jams. When roads are wider and there are more highways, more cars can use them, which might make traffic move faster. Also, good roads are important for businesses because they need to transport goods easily. For example, in some cities, new highways have helped reduce travel times for many people.
On the other hand, those who prefer public transport say it’s a better long-term solution. Buses and trains can carry many people at once, which means fewer cars on the road. This is also better for the environment because it reduces pollution. In cities like New York or London, many people use the subway or buses instead of driving, which helps reduce traffic.
In my opinion, I think improving public transport is more important. While better roads can help in the short term, they often get full of cars again quickly. Public transport can move more people and is better for the environment. However, I also think that some road improvements are necessary, especially for safety reasons.
To conclude, both improving roads and public transport have their benefits. But I believe focusing more on public transport, while still maintaining roads, is the best way to solve traffic problems in big cities.
(Word count: 263)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Traffic in big cities is a big problem nowadays. Some people think governments should make roads better, but others say public transport is more important. I will talk about both ideas.
Making roads better can help with traffic. When roads are bigger, more cars can use them. This might make traffic faster. Good roads are also important for businesses to move things around. In some places, new roads have helped people get to work faster.
Public transport is also important. Buses and trains can carry many people at one time. This means fewer cars on the road. It’s also better for the environment because there’s less pollution. In some big cities, many people use buses or trains instead of cars.
I think public transport is more important. It can help more people and it’s better for the environment. But I also think roads need to be fixed sometimes.
In conclusion, both ideas can help with traffic problems. But I think public transport is better for solving traffic issues in big cities.
(Word count: 159)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Ideas are coherently organized with clear progression throughout
- Uses cohesive devices effectively
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, although conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task with some evidence of style and flexibility
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information coherently and there is clear overall progression
- Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task
- May make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader
- Uses only a limited range of structures with only rare use of subordinate clauses
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Urban infrastructure (noun) /ˈɜːrbən ˌɪnfrəˈstrʌktʃər/ – The physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a city.
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Congestion (noun) /kənˈdʒestʃən/ – The state of being overcrowded, especially with traffic.
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Public transportation (noun) /ˈpʌblɪk ˌtrænspɔːrˈteɪʃən/ – Buses, trains, and other forms of transport that are available to the public.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.
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Transit-oriented development (noun) /ˈtrænzɪt ˈɔːrientɪd dɪˈveləpmənt/ – A type of urban development that maximizes the amount of residential, business and leisure space within walking distance of public transport.
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Urbanization (noun) /ˌɜːrbənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – The process of making an area more urban.
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Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌktʃər/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
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Mobility (noun) /məʊˈbɪləti/ – The ability to move or be moved freely and easily.
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Socioeconomic (adjective) /ˌsəʊsioʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – Relating to or concerned with the interaction of social and economic factors.
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Environmental impact (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈɪmpækt/ – The effect of human activities on the natural environment.
Conclusion
The impact of overpopulation on urban infrastructure, particularly transportation systems, is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As we’ve seen, this theme can be approached from various angles, such as the debate between improving road infrastructure and enhancing public transportation. To prepare for similar questions, consider practicing with prompts like:
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“Some people believe that building more housing is the best solution to urban overcrowding. Others argue that limiting population growth in cities is more effective. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
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“As cities become more populated, some suggest that vertical growth (building taller structures) is the best way to accommodate more people. Others believe horizontal expansion is preferable. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
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“Some people think that to reduce traffic congestion, governments should impose heavy taxes on car owners and use that money to improve public transportation. Do you agree or disagree?”
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for the actual IELTS exam.
How to address the challenges of overpopulation in cities is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of various factors. By understanding different perspectives and practicing your essay writing skills, you’ll be better prepared to tackle this and similar topics in your IELTS Writing Task 2.