Public transportation has consistently appeared as a prominent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in essays discussing urban development, environmental protection, and quality of life. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams from 2018-2023, questions about public transport systems appear approximately once every four months, making it a highly relevant topic for IELTS candidates.
The benefits of sustainable urban planning are closely tied to efficient public transportation systems, as we’ll explore in these sample essays.
Sample Question Analysis
Some people believe that governments should invest more money in public transportation systems rather than building new roads for private vehicles. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on government spending priorities
- Compare public transport and private vehicle infrastructure
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Consider economic and social implications
Band 9 Sample Essay
Public transportation infrastructure should indeed be prioritized over new road construction for private vehicles, and I strongly agree with this perspective. This approach offers numerous advantages for both society and the environment.
Firstly, investing in public transport systems significantly reduces traffic congestion and environmental pollution. For instance, a single metro line in Shanghai can transport up to 60,000 passengers per hour, equivalent to the capacity of 20 lanes of highway traffic. This efficiency not only decreases carbon emissions but also improves urban air quality substantially.
Moreover, public transportation promotes social equality by providing affordable mobility options for all income groups. In Singapore, the comprehensive MRT system enables elderly citizens, students, and low-income workers to travel conveniently at reasonable costs. This accessibility contributes to social inclusion and economic opportunities for all residents.
The impact of AI on public transport has further enhanced the efficiency of these systems, making them even more attractive alternatives to private vehicles.
However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced approach. While prioritizing public transport, governments should also ensure existing road infrastructure remains well-maintained for essential private vehicle use, emergency services, and commercial transportation.
In conclusion, the substantial benefits of public transportation systems, including environmental protection, social equality, and urban efficiency, clearly justify greater government investment in this sector rather than expanding private vehicle infrastructure.
Band 7 Sample Essay
I agree that governments should allocate more resources to public transportation rather than building new roads. This approach has several advantages for cities and their residents.
Public transport helps reduce traffic problems in cities. When more people use buses and trains, there are fewer cars on the roads. For example, in Delhi, the metro system carries about 2.8 million passengers daily, which helps reduce road congestion significantly.
Additionally, public transportation is better for the environment. Buses and trains produce less pollution per passenger compared to private cars. This is important because many cities face serious air quality problems.
The benefits of sustainable waste management complement public transportation in creating greener cities.
However, there are some challenges. Public transport systems need regular maintenance and updates, which can be expensive. Also, some people prefer private vehicles for convenience.
In conclusion, despite some drawbacks, investing in public transportation is more beneficial than building new roads. It helps solve traffic problems and protects the environment.
Key Vocabulary
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – basic physical systems of a country
- Congestion (n) /kənˈdʒestʃən/ – overcrowding, especially of traffic
- Accessibility (n) /əkˌsesəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being easily reached or used
- Sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – able to continue over time without damaging the environment
- Metropolitan (adj) /ˌmetrəˈpɒlɪtən/ – relating to a large city
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
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Complex Sentence with Concession:
“While prioritizing public transport, governments should also ensure existing road infrastructure remains well-maintained.” -
Cause-Effect Structure:
“This efficiency not only decreases carbon emissions but also improves urban air quality substantially.” -
Complex Sentence with Multiple Clauses:
“When more people use public transportation systems, which can accommodate larger numbers of passengers, traffic congestion naturally decreases on urban roads.”
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback!