The topic of urban versus rural living is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on past trends and current societal issues, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Urban development and population growth are global concerns that affect countless individuals, making it a relevant and thought-provoking topic for IELTS candidates. Let’s examine a sample question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that living in big cities is becoming more difficult. Others believe that it is getting easier. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the challenges of living in big cities
- Explore the advantages or improvements in urban living
- Provide a balanced argument considering both perspectives
- Express a personal opinion based on the discussion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, there has been ongoing debate about whether life in metropolitan areas is becoming more challenging or more convenient. While there are valid arguments on both sides, I believe that the ease of urban living has significantly improved, despite some persistent difficulties.
On the one hand, those who argue that city life is becoming more difficult have some compelling points. The most pressing issue is undoubtedly the rising cost of living in urban centers. Housing prices in major cities like London, New York, and Tokyo have skyrocketed, making it increasingly difficult for average earners to afford decent accommodation. Additionally, traffic congestion and pollution levels in many metropolises have worsened, leading to longer commute times and potential health risks for residents.
However, there are strong arguments to suggest that urban living is, in fact, becoming easier in many respects. Technological advancements have revolutionized city life, making daily tasks more convenient and efficient. For instance, smart city initiatives have improved public transportation systems, with real-time updates and cashless payment options enhancing the commuting experience. Moreover, the proliferation of food delivery apps and online shopping platforms has made it possible for city dwellers to access a wide range of goods and services without leaving their homes.
Furthermore, cities continue to be hubs of opportunity, offering diverse job prospects and educational options that are often unavailable in rural areas. The concentration of cultural institutions, entertainment venues, and recreational facilities in urban centers provides residents with a rich and varied lifestyle.
In my opinion, while challenges such as affordability and congestion persist, the overall quality of urban living has improved significantly. The convenience, opportunities, and amenities offered by modern cities outweigh the difficulties for many people. However, it is crucial for urban planners and policymakers to address ongoing issues to ensure that cities remain livable and accessible for all residents.
In conclusion, although city life presents certain challenges, I believe that technological advancements and improved infrastructure have made urban living increasingly manageable and appealing for many individuals.
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is cohesive with clear progression throughout. It uses a range of cohesive devices and paragraphing effectively.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Note the use of phrases like “ongoing debate,” “compelling points,” and “revolutionized city life.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex structures are used naturally and appropriately.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is thoroughly developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
These days, people have different opinions about whether living in big cities is getting harder or easier. In my opinion, there are both advantages and disadvantages to city life, but overall it is becoming more convenient for most people.
On the one hand, some people think that living in cities is more difficult now. The main problem is that everything is very expensive, especially housing. Many people struggle to pay rent or buy a house in big cities like New York or London. Also, there is a lot of traffic in cities, which means people spend a long time traveling to work or school. This can be very stressful and tiring.
However, there are also reasons why city life is getting easier. Cities have many job opportunities and good schools, which can help people improve their lives. There are also many entertainment options like cinemas, restaurants, and parks. Moreover, technology has made many things more convenient in cities. For example, people can use apps to order food or shop online, which saves time.
In my view, although there are some challenges, living in cities is becoming easier for most people. The opportunities and conveniences of city life outweigh the problems. However, I think governments should try to solve issues like expensive housing and traffic to make cities even better places to live.
In conclusion, while there are both positive and negative aspects to urban living, I believe that overall, it is becoming more convenient and beneficial for most residents.
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though some aspects are covered more thoroughly than others.
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Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but cohesive devices are not always used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but lack of sophistication in some areas. Some less common lexical items are attempted but may be used with slight awkwardness.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with generally good control, though errors occur when more complex structures are attempted.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are extended and supported, but not always with the depth and specificity seen in higher band scores.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Metropolitan (adj.) /ˌmetrəˈpɒlɪtən/ – relating to a large city
- Congestion (n.) /kənˈdʒestʃən/ – the state of being crowded and full of traffic
- Proliferation (n.) /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/ – rapid increase in the number or amount of something
- Amenities (n.) /əˈmiːnətiz/ – useful features or facilities of a place
- Livable (adj.) /ˈlɪvəbl/ – suitable for living in
- Skyrocket (v.) /ˈskaɪrɒkɪt/ – increase very steeply or rapidly
- Outweigh (v.) /aʊtˈweɪ/ – be more significant than
- Accessibility (n.) /əkˌsesəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to be reached or entered
- Infrastructure (n.) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities
- Persistent (adj.) /pəˈsɪstənt/ – continuing firmly or obstinately in an opinion or course of action
In conclusion, the topic of urban versus rural living remains a significant theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future exam questions might explore related aspects such as sustainable urban development, the impact of remote work on city populations, or the challenges of rural development in the digital age. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on these themes, focusing on developing balanced arguments and supporting your ideas with relevant examples.
We encourage you to try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and receive valuable feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.