As we delve into The benefits of urban farming programs, it’s crucial to note this topic’s increasing relevance in IELTS examinations. Based on analysis of past papers, questions about urban agriculture have appeared multiple times since 2019, particularly in Task 2 essays focused on environment and society.
Let’s examine a recent IELTS question that exemplifies this theme:
Some people believe that urban farming initiatives should be encouraged in cities to improve food security and community development. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Task Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their position on urban farming in cities
- Evaluate impacts on food security and community building
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Present a well-structured response
Urban farming initiatives bringing communities together in city gardens
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In recent years, impact of urban farming on food security has become increasingly significant. I strongly agree that metropolitan areas should promote urban farming initiatives as they offer numerous advantages for both food security and social cohesion.
Urban agriculture initiatives can substantially enhance food security in several ways. Firstly, these programs enable cities to produce fresh vegetables and fruits locally, reducing dependency on external food sources. For instance, Singapore’s rooftop farming projects now supply about 20% of the city’s vegetable needs, demonstrating how urban farming can contribute to food self-sufficiency. Moreover, these initiatives can help stabilize food prices by shortening supply chains and minimizing transportation costs.
Regarding community development, Urban farming and community gardens create valuable opportunities for social interaction and collective learning. When residents participate in community gardens, they naturally form connections with neighbors while sharing gardening knowledge and experiences. In Seoul, community farming projects have successfully brought together elderly residents with young professionals, fostering intergenerational understanding and cooperation. These interactions strengthen community bonds and create a more resilient social fabric.
Furthermore, urban farming initiatives offer educational benefits and promote environmental awareness. Children growing up in cities can learn about food production firsthand, while adults develop a deeper appreciation for sustainable practices. These projects also contribute to urban biodiversity and help reduce carbon footprints by decreasing food transportation distances.
In conclusion, should urban farming be encouraged is a question that deserves a resounding yes. The dual benefits of enhanced food security and stronger community ties make urban farming initiatives invaluable for modern cities. Governments should therefore provide more support and resources for these programs.
Successful rooftop garden implementation showing urban farming potential
Analysis of Band 8.5 Essay
- Task Response (9): Clear position with fully developed arguments
- Coherence and Cohesion (8): Logical organization with effective paragraphing
- Lexical Resource (8.5): Sophisticated vocabulary accurately used
- Grammar (9): Wide range of complex structures with full flexibility and accuracy
Key Vocabulary
- food self-sufficiency (n) /ˈsɛlf səˈfɪʃənsi/ – ability to produce one’s own food
- supply chains (n) /səˈplaɪ tʃeɪnz/ – network between company and suppliers
- intergenerational (adj) /ˌɪntəˌdʒɛnəˈreɪʃənəl/ – existing between generations
- social fabric (n) /ˈsəʊʃəl ˈfæbrɪk/ – network of social relationships
- biodiversity (n) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – variety of plant and animal life
For practice, readers are encouraged to write their own essays on this topic and share them in the comments. Consider related topics like “urban farming’s role in climate change mitigation” or “technological innovations in urban agriculture” for additional practice.
