Urbanization and its effects on clean water access is a critical topic that has gained significant attention in recent IELTS exams. Based on our analysis of past test papers and current global trends, we predict this theme will continue to appear frequently in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in recent exams and provide sample essays to help you prepare effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should invest in preserving water resources for future use. Others believe that money should be spent on improving water accessibility for today’s population. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question directly addresses the challenge of balancing water resource preservation with immediate accessibility needs, a key issue in urbanizing areas. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the viewpoint of investing in water preservation
- Explore the perspective of improving current water accessibility
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter
Let’s examine two sample essays that tackle this question, targeting different band scores.
Urban water management
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Water resource management is a critical issue facing many governments today, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas. While some argue for investing in long-term water preservation, others advocate for improving immediate access. In my opinion, a balanced approach that addresses both current needs and future sustainability is essential.
Those in favor of preserving water resources argue that with increasing urbanization and climate change, securing water supplies for future generations is paramount. They contend that investing in technologies like aquifer recharge, water recycling systems, and advanced conservation methods will ensure long-term water security. Moreover, they assert that neglecting future needs could lead to severe water crises, potentially causing social unrest and economic instability.
On the other hand, proponents of improving current water accessibility emphasize the immediate human need. They argue that millions of people, especially in developing urban areas, lack access to clean water, leading to health issues and impeded economic growth. Investing in infrastructure such as water treatment plants, distribution networks, and sanitation facilities, they claim, would dramatically improve quality of life and public health in the short term.
In my view, governments should adopt a comprehensive strategy that balances both perspectives. Immediate improvements in water accessibility are crucial for public health and economic development, particularly in rapidly growing urban centers. However, these efforts must be coupled with long-term preservation strategies to ensure sustainability. This could involve allocating funds for both immediate infrastructure projects and research into water-saving technologies.
Furthermore, I believe that education and public awareness campaigns should be an integral part of this balanced approach. By fostering a culture of water conservation and responsible use, governments can address both current needs and future challenges simultaneously.
In conclusion, while the debate between water preservation and immediate accessibility is complex, a nuanced strategy that addresses both is essential. Governments must strive to meet current urban water needs while also safeguarding this vital resource for future generations. (309 words)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Water management is a big problem for many governments today. Some people think we should save water for the future, while others say we need to focus on giving people water now. I think both ideas are important.
People who want to save water say it’s important because of climate change and more people moving to cities. They think we should use new ways to save water and clean dirty water so we have enough in the future. If we don’t do this, they worry we might have big water problems later.
But other people think we need to help people get water now. They say many people in cities don’t have clean water, which causes health problems. They want to build more pipes and water cleaning places to help people right away.
I think governments should try to do both things. It’s important to help people get clean water now, especially in big cities. But we also need to think about the future. Maybe we can spend money on both new pipes and ways to save water.
I also think teaching people about saving water is a good idea. If everyone learns to use less water, it can help now and in the future.
To sum up, I believe we need to help people get water now and also save water for later. It’s a hard problem, but governments need to think about both the present and the future when it comes to water. (234 words)
Key Writing Tips for This Topic
Vocabulary: Use a range of water-related terms accurately. For higher bands, incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary:
- Band 8-9: aquifer recharge, water recycling systems, conservation methods, distribution networks
- Band 6-7: save water, clean water, water problems, water cleaning places
Grammar: Employ a variety of sentence structures:
- Band 8-9: Use complex sentences with multiple clauses, e.g., “While some argue for investing in long-term water preservation, others advocate for improving immediate access.”
- Band 6-7: Use simpler structures but still show some variety, e.g., “Some people think we should save water for the future, while others say we need to focus on giving people water now.”
Coherence and Cohesion:
- Band 8-9: Use sophisticated linking words and phrases, e.g., “Moreover,” “Furthermore,” “On the other hand”
- Band 6-7: Use basic connectives correctly, e.g., “But,” “Also,” “To sum up”
Task Response:
- Ensure you discuss both viewpoints and clearly state your own opinion
- Provide specific examples or scenarios to support your points
Tone and Style:
- Maintain a formal, academic tone throughout
- Avoid overly emotional language or personal anecdotes
Essential Vocabulary for Water and Urbanization Topics
- Urbanization (noun) /ˌɜːbənaɪˈzeɪʃən/: The process of making an area more urban
- Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/: The basic systems and services needed for a country or organization to run smoothly
- Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to continue or be continued for a long time
- Scarcity (noun) /ˈskeəsəti/: A situation in which something is not easy to find or get
- Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/: The protection of plants and animals, natural areas, and important substances such as oil, coal, and water
- Sanitation (noun) /ˌsænɪˈteɪʃn/: The equipment and systems that keep places clean, especially by removing human waste
- Contamination (noun) /kənˌtæmɪˈneɪʃn/: The act of making something dirty, polluted, or poisonous by adding a chemical, waste, or infection
- Desalination (noun) /diːˌsælɪˈneɪʃn/: The process of removing salt from seawater so that it can be used
- Aquifer (noun) /ˈækwɪfə(r)/: A layer of rock or soil that contains water and allows water to pass through it
- Wastewater treatment (noun phrase) /ˈweɪstwɔːtə ˈtriːtmənt/: The process of removing contaminants from wastewater and household sewage
Conclusion
The impact of urbanization on access to clean water is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key issues, using appropriate vocabulary, and structuring your essay effectively, you can tackle questions on this theme with confidence. Remember to practice writing essays on related topics, such as:
- The role of technology in solving urban water challenges
- Balancing industrial water needs with residential requirements in cities
- The impact of climate change on urban water supplies
We encourage you to write your own essay on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and prepare for success in your IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, check out our articles on how to address the challenges of water scarcity, challenges of urbanization in developing countries, and urbanization and sustainable water management.