Urban sprawl and its associated challenges have become increasingly common topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent examinations. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this topic frequently emerges in problem-solution and discussion essays. Let’s examine one recent test question and explore sample responses across different band scores.
Some people believe that governments should restrict housing development in the suburbs of large cities and instead focus on building new homes in existing urban areas. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Question Analysis
This question addresses how urban sprawl contributes to transportation issues and requires candidates to evaluate housing development policies. Key points to consider:
- Government’s role in urban planning
- Environmental impact
- Infrastructure challenges
- Social implications
- Economic factors
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Urban expansion has become a critical issue affecting metropolitan areas worldwide, and there are growing debates about whether authorities should limit suburban development. I strongly agree that governments should prioritize urban densification over suburban sprawl for several compelling reasons.
The primary argument for restricting suburban growth lies in its environmental and infrastructural impact. When cities expand horizontally, they consume valuable agricultural land and natural habitats, leading to biodiversity loss and reduced food security. Moreover, the impact of overpopulation on urban infrastructure becomes more pronounced as suburbs expand, requiring extensive investment in new roads, utilities, and public services.
Furthermore, concentrated urban development offers numerous advantages. High-density housing in existing city areas promotes efficient use of resources, reduces car dependency, and supports impact of smart cities on urban planning. Cities with well-planned density can provide better public transportation options, walking-friendly neighborhoods, and improved access to amenities, ultimately enhancing residents’ quality of life.
However, implementation must be carefully managed to avoid potential drawbacks such as overcrowding and increased housing costs. Governments should ensure adequate green spaces, public facilities, and affordable housing options within urban developments.
In conclusion, while suburban development has been a traditional growth model, focusing on urban densification represents a more sustainable approach for future city planning. This strategy can help create more environmentally friendly, economically viable, and socially connected communities.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
I agree that governments should control suburban development and focus on building new homes in city areas because this has many benefits for people and the environment.
Firstly, building homes in existing urban areas helps protect the environment. When cities grow outwards, they destroy natural areas and farmland. This is bad for wildlife and food production. Also, people living in suburbs usually need cars to travel everywhere, which causes more pollution and traffic problems.
role of government in managing urban sprawl is important for creating better cities. When more people live in urban areas, they can walk to shops and work, or use public transport easily. This helps reduce traffic and pollution. Also, it is cheaper for the government to provide services like water and electricity to people living close together.
However, there are some problems with this approach. Living in cities can be expensive, and some families prefer having bigger houses with gardens in suburbs. Also, cities can become too crowded if too many people live there.
In conclusion, I think governments should encourage more housing development in urban areas instead of suburbs because it is better for the environment and makes city services more efficient.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8-9 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary (densification, biodiversity)
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear progression of ideas
- Strong cohesion and coherence
- Well-developed arguments
Band 6-7 Essay Features:
- Good basic vocabulary
- Mix of simple and complex sentences
- Clear but simpler arguments
- Basic cohesive devices
- Adequate development of ideas
Key Vocabulary
- Urban sprawl (n) /ˈɜːbən sprɔːl/ – uncontrolled expansion of urban areas
- Densification (n) /ˌdensɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ – process of making urban areas more compact
- Infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical systems of a country
- Biodiversity (n) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – variety of plant and animal life
- Sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain level
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
- “While X, Y represents a more sustainable approach…” (Contrast structure)
- “Not only does X lead to Y, but it also…” (Complex cause-effect)
- “The primary argument for X lies in…” (Topic introduction)
Consider practicing with this topic and sharing your essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.