IELTS Writing Task 2: Airport Expansion - Band 7.5 Sample with Full Breakdown

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Full Prompt

In some countries, there are no restrictions on the number of airports a city can have. Some people believe that having multiple airports will cause environmental problems. Others think that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Band 7.5 Sample Answer

The benefits of having multiple airports in a city clearly outweigh the environmental drawbacks, despite the concerns raised by some people.

On the one hand, those who oppose airport expansion argue that it contributes significantly to environmental degradation. Firstly, the construction of new airports requires clearing large areas of land, which often leads to deforestation and loss of wildlife habitats. Secondly, the increased aircraft movements result in higher carbon emissions, exacerbating air pollution and climate change. According to a report by the International Council on Clean Transportation, aviation accounts for about 2.5% of global CO2 emissions, and this figure is expected to rise with more airports.

However, the advantages of having multiple airports are more compelling. Primarily, it enhances connectivity and economic growth. A city with several airports can accommodate more flights, both domestically and internationally, making travel more convenient for residents and businesses. This can attract investment, create jobs, and boost tourism. For instance, Dubai's expansion of its airport infrastructure has transformed it into a global hub, contributing significantly to the city's economy. Moreover, modern airports are designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating green technologies and practices to minimize their environmental impact. For example, the Changi Airport in Singapore has implemented solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient systems, proving that economic benefits and environmental responsibility can coexist.

In my view, the economic and social benefits of having multiple airports far outweigh the environmental concerns. While it is crucial to address the environmental impact, this can be achieved through the implementation of stringent regulations and sustainable practices. Therefore, cities should continue to expand their airport infrastructure to foster economic growth and connectivity.

Scoring Breakdown

| Criteria | Band 7.5 | Notes | |---------|---------|-------| | Task Response | Presents a clear position throughout the response. Presents, extends, and supports main ideas, but there may be a slight tendency to overgeneralize. | | Coherence and Cohesion | Logically organizes information with clear progression. Uses cohesive devices effectively, but sentences may be somewhat long and complex. | | Lexical Resource | Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey ideas precisely. Some idiomatic language and collocations are present, but there may be occasional inaccurate word choice. | | Grammatical Range and Accuracy | Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Generally produces error-free sentences, but there may be occasional grammatical errors under pressure of time. |

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Environmental degradation: Damage to the environment caused by human activity.

• Example: The environmental degradation caused by industrialization is a major concern.

1. Deforestation: The action of clearing a large area of trees.

• Example: Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest has severe consequences for biodiversity.

1. Carbon emissions: The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, primarily from burning fossil fuels.

• Example: Reducing carbon emissions is essential to combat climate change.

1. Exacerbating: Making a problem worse.

• Example: The new policy is exacerbating the housing crisis.

1. Connectivity: The state of being connected by transport links.

• Example: Improved connectivity between cities can boost economic growth.

1. Sustainability: The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.

• Example: Sustainable practices are crucial for the future of our planet.

1. Stringent regulations: Strict rules or laws.

• Example: The new environmental laws are among the most stringent in the world.

1. Economic growth: An increase in the production of goods and services in an economy.

• Example: The government's policies have led to significant economic growth.

1. Attract investment: To persuade people or organizations to invest money.

• Example: The new tax incentives are designed to attract investment from foreign companies.

1. Boost tourism: To increase the number of tourists visiting a place.

• Example: The new marketing campaign is expected to boost tourism in the region.

1. Green technologies: Technologies that are designed to have a minimal impact on the environment.

• Example: The use of green technologies is becoming more widespread in the construction industry.

1. Rainwater harvesting: The collection and storage of rainwater for reuse.

• Example: Rainwater harvesting is an effective way to conserve water in drought-prone areas.

1. Energy-efficient systems: Systems designed to use less energy and therefore reduce costs and environmental impact.

• Example: The new building has energy-efficient systems that reduce its carbon footprint.

1. Global hub: A central location for international activity, such as trade or travel.

• Example: Singapore is a global hub for finance and commerce.

1. Biodiversity: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.

• Example: Protecting biodiversity is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems.

1. Fossil fuels: Natural fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, formed from the remains of ancient organisms.

• Example: The burning of fossil fuels is a major contributor to air pollution.

1. Implementing: Putting a plan or system into effect.

• Example: The company is implementing new measures to improve workplace safety.

1. Investment: The action or process of investing money for profit or material gain.

• Example: Foreign investment has played a crucial role in the country's economic development.

1. Transformed: Changed in form, appearance, or character.

• Example: The city has been transformed by the new infrastructure projects.

1. Collocations: Words that are often used together and sound natural to native speakers.

• Example: The phrase 'conduct a survey' is a common collocation in academic writing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overgeneralizing: Making broad statements without sufficient evidence or examples. Ensure each point is supported with specific details.

1. Inaccurate Word Choice: Using words that are not precise or appropriate. For example, saying 'airports cause pollution' instead of 'airports contribute to environmental degradation'.

1. Complex Sentences: Writing overly complex sentences can lead to grammatical errors. Aim for a mix of simple and complex sentences.

1. Lack of Cohesive Devices: Failing to use transition words and phrases can make the essay difficult to follow. Use words like 'however', 'moreover', and 'in addition' to connect ideas.

1. Ignoring the Task Requirements: Ensure you address both sides of the argument and provide a clear opinion. Failing to do so can result in a lower score for Task Response.

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