Sustainable architecture in urban planning has become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This theme reflects the growing global concern for environmental sustainability and urban development. Based on recent trends, we can expect to see more questions related to this subject in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past tests and provide sample answers for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that governments should invest in preserving buildings of historical importance, while others think this money should be spent on developing sustainable architecture for the future. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question addresses the balance between preserving historical architecture and investing in sustainable future designs. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the importance of preserving historical buildings
- Explain the benefits of investing in sustainable architecture
- Present their own opinion on which approach is more valuable
Let’s examine sample essays for different band scores to understand how to approach this topic effectively.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Preserving historical architecture and investing in sustainable design are both crucial aspects of urban development, each offering unique benefits to society. While I believe a balance between the two is ideal, I argue that prioritizing sustainable architecture is more critical for our future.
Advocates of preserving historical buildings argue that these structures are invaluable cultural assets. They serve as tangible links to our past, offering insights into architectural styles, construction techniques, and societal values of previous generations. Moreover, historical buildings often contribute to a city’s unique character and attract tourism, thereby boosting local economies. The preservation of such structures ensures that future generations can appreciate and learn from their heritage.
On the other hand, proponents of sustainable architecture emphasize the urgent need to address environmental challenges through innovative design. Sustainable buildings incorporate energy-efficient technologies, utilize renewable materials, and minimize waste, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of urban areas. Furthermore, these structures often improve the quality of life for inhabitants by providing healthier living and working environments. Investing in sustainable architecture also drives technological advancements and creates jobs in the green economy sector.
In my opinion, while preserving historical buildings is important, the pressing need to combat climate change and create more livable cities makes investing in sustainable architecture the more crucial priority. The environmental and social benefits of sustainable design have far-reaching implications for our planet’s future. However, I believe the ideal approach is to find a balance, perhaps by retrofitting historical buildings with sustainable technologies or incorporating elements of historical design into new, sustainable structures.
In conclusion, both preserving historical architecture and investing in sustainable design have merits, but the latter should take precedence given the urgent environmental challenges we face. Governments should focus on creating sustainable cities while finding innovative ways to honor historical heritage, ensuring a harmonious blend of past and future in urban landscapes.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent use of language and addresses all parts of the question thoroughly. Here’s why it would score in the Band 8-9 range:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “carbon footprint” and “retrofitting.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
There is a debate about whether governments should spend money on preserving old buildings or invest in new sustainable architecture. Both sides have good points, but I think we need to focus more on sustainable buildings for the future.
People who want to preserve historical buildings say they are important for our culture. Old buildings show us how people lived in the past and what was important to them. They also make cities look unique and can bring in tourists, which is good for the local economy. If we don’t take care of these buildings, we might lose important parts of our history.
On the other hand, those who support sustainable architecture say it’s necessary for the environment. New sustainable buildings use less energy and produce less waste. They are better for the environment and can help fight climate change. These buildings are also often healthier for people to live and work in. Investing in sustainable architecture can also create new jobs in green technology.
I believe that while historical buildings are valuable, we need to prioritize sustainable architecture. Climate change is a big problem, and we need to do everything we can to reduce our impact on the environment. Sustainable buildings can help with this. However, I think we should try to find ways to make historical buildings more sustainable too, so we don’t have to choose between history and the environment.
In conclusion, both preserving old buildings and building sustainable ones are important, but I think sustainable architecture should be the main focus. We need to think about the future of our planet while also finding ways to respect our history.
(Word count: 276)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates good language use and addresses the task, but with less sophistication than the Band 8-9 essay. Here’s why it would score in the Band 6-7 range:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the higher band essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less varied and precise compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, but with less variety than the higher band essay.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but not as fully elaborated as in the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Sustainable architecture (noun) – /səˈsteɪnəbəl ˈɑːrkɪtektʃər/ – Design and construction practices that minimize buildings’ negative environmental impact
- Urban planning (noun) – /ˈɜːrbən ˈplænɪŋ/ – The process of designing and organizing urban areas
- Carbon footprint (noun) – /ˈkɑːrbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide emissions associated with an activity or organization
- Retrofitting (verb) – /ˌriːtrəˈfɪtɪŋ/ – Adding new technology or features to older systems
- Energy-efficient (adjective) – /ˈenərdʒi ɪˈfɪʃənt/ – Using less energy to provide the same level of performance
- Renewable materials (noun) – /rɪˈnjuːəbəl məˈtɪəriəlz/ – Resources that can be replenished naturally in a short period
- Green economy (noun) – /ɡriːn iˈkɒnəmi/ – An economy that aims for sustainable development without degrading the environment
- Cultural heritage (noun) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – Legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes inherited from past generations
- Climate change mitigation (noun) – /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/ – Efforts to reduce or prevent emission of greenhouse gases
- Livability (noun) – /ˌlɪvəˈbɪləti/ – The suitability of a place for comfortable living
Conclusion
The role of sustainable architecture in urban planning is a crucial topic in today’s IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. As we’ve seen from the sample essays, this theme allows candidates to demonstrate their understanding of environmental issues, cultural preservation, and urban development. To excel in such essays, focus on:
- Clearly stating your opinion while acknowledging both sides of the argument
- Using specific examples to support your points
- Employing a range of advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Organizing your ideas logically with clear paragraphs and transitions
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The impact of green buildings on community health and well-being
- Balancing economic growth with sustainable urban development
- The role of technology in creating smart, sustainable cities
Remember, the key to improving your IELTS Writing score is consistent practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning will help you refine your skills and boost your confidence for the IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, check out our articles on the rise of green architecture in urban development and the role of urban planning in promoting sustainable development.