IELTS Writing Task 2: Historic Buildings - Band 6.5 Sample with Full Breakdown
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Prompt
Some people think that governments should spend money on preserving historic buildings, while others believe that they should invest in new infrastructure. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Sample Answers
Band 6.5 Answer
Task Response: Presents a clear position with some development. Supports the position with relevant ideas but lacks depth. Coherence and Cohesion: Information is logically organized but with some repetition. Uses cohesive devices but not always appropriately. Lexical Resource: Uses a mix of appropriate vocabulary but with some errors and limited range. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with frequent errors.
Some people argue that governments should spend money on preserving historic buildings. I agree with this view. Historic buildings are important because they represent our cultural heritage. For example, the Great Wall of China is a historic building that attracts many tourists every year. This brings money to the country. However, others believe that governments should invest in new infrastructure. They argue that new infrastructure can improve the quality of life for people. For instance, building new roads and bridges can make transportation easier. In my opinion, preserving historic buildings is more important because they are a part of our history and identity.
Band 7.0 Answer
Task Response: Presents a clear position with developed arguments. Supports the position with relevant, extended ideas. Coherence and Cohesion: Information is logically organized with clear progression. Uses a range of cohesive devices effectively. Lexical Resource: Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items. Some errors but they do not impede communication. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with some errors but generally accurate.
There is a debate about whether governments should spend money on preserving historic buildings or invest in new infrastructure. I believe that preserving historic buildings is more important. Historic buildings are not just structures; they are a part of our history and culture. For example, the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt are not only a tourist attraction but also a symbol of ancient Egyptian civilization. Preserving such buildings helps us understand our past and appreciate our heritage. On the other hand, investing in new infrastructure can improve the quality of life for people. For instance, building new hospitals and schools can provide better services to the community. However, I think that preserving historic buildings should be a priority because they are irreplaceable. Once they are gone, we lose a part of our history forever.
Band 8.0 Answer
Task Response: Presents a clear, well-developed position with extended and supported arguments. Coherence and Cohesion: Information is logically organized with clear progression. Uses a range of cohesive devices effectively. Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary with some sophisticated and less common lexical items. Few errors. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally accurate grammar and punctuation.
The question of whether governments should spend money on preserving historic buildings or invest in new infrastructure is a contentious one. I firmly believe that preserving historic buildings should be a priority. Historic buildings are not merely structures; they are tangible links to our past. For instance, the Colosseum in Rome is not just an ancient amphitheater; it is a symbol of Roman engineering and culture. Preserving such buildings allows us to learn from our history and pass on this knowledge to future generations. Moreover, historic buildings often attract tourists, which can boost the local economy. For example, the Taj Mahal in India is a major tourist attraction that generates significant revenue for the country. While investing in new infrastructure is also important, it can be done alongside preserving historic buildings. Governments should allocate funds for both, but with a greater emphasis on preserving our cultural heritage.
Vocabulary Highlights
- Preserve (verb): To keep something in its original state; to maintain. Example: The government decided to preserve the historic building by restoring it to its former glory.
- Infrastructure (noun): The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society. Example: The government plans to invest in new infrastructure to improve the country's transportation system.
- Heritage (noun): Features belonging to the culture of a particular society, such as traditions, languages, and historic buildings. Example: The historic building is an important part of our national heritage.
- Attract (verb): To cause someone to be interested in something; to draw. Example: The historic building attracts many tourists every year.
- Symbol (noun): A thing that represents or stands for something else, especially a material object representing something abstract. Example: The historic building is a symbol of our city's rich history.
- Civilization (noun): An advanced stage of human social development and organization. Example: The historic building is a testament to the advanced civilization that once existed here.
- Irreplaceable (adjective): Impossible to replace; unique. Example: The historic building is irreplaceable because it is a part of our history.
- Priority (noun): A thing that is regarded as more important than another. Example: Preserving historic buildings should be a priority for the government.
- Allocate (verb): To distribute something as a share or portion. Example: The government needs to allocate more funds for preserving historic buildings.
- Emphasis (noun): Special importance or significance given to something. Example: The government should place greater emphasis on preserving our cultural heritage.
Common Mistakes
- Lack of Clear Position: Some students fail to present a clear position in their essay. They discuss both views but do not state which one they agree with.
- Repetition: Students often repeat the same ideas or words, which can make the essay seem less coherent.
- Inadequate Vocabulary: Using simple or repetitive vocabulary can limit the range and sophistication of the essay.
- Grammatical Errors: Frequent grammatical errors can make the essay difficult to understand and lower the score.
- Poor Organization: Some students fail to organize their ideas logically, which can make the essay seem disjointed and confusing.
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