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IELTS Writing Task 2:
Sustainable Cities (Advantages Disadvantages) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

Master IELTS Writing Task 2 with band 6-9 model answers on sustainable cities. Learn key strategies and avoid common mistakes.

IELTS Writing Task 2: Sustainable Cities (Advantages Disadvantages) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers | English AIdol Blog

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Master IELTS Writing Task 2 with band 6-9 model answers on sustainable cities. Learn key strategies and avoid common mistakes.

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Sustainable Cities (Advantages Disadvantages) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

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The Prompt

> Some people argue that governments should invest in sustainable cities to combat climate change. Others believe this is not the best use of public funds. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

Advantages and Disadvantages of Sustainable Cities

Sustainable cities have many benefits. First, they reduce pollution. For example, cities with good public transport have less traffic and cleaner air. Second, sustainable cities save money. Using renewable energy like solar power costs less in the long run. However, there are also disadvantages. Building sustainable infrastructure is expensive. Many cities cannot afford these costs. Also, some people may not want to change their lifestyle. They may resist new rules about recycling or energy use.

In my opinion, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Governments should invest in sustainable cities. The long-term benefits for the environment and economy are too important to ignore.

Scoring Breakdown

  • Task Response (TR): Presents a position but lacks depth in development (Band 6)
  • Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized but with some repetition (Band 6)
  • Lexical Resource (LR): Uses some less common vocabulary but with some errors (Band 6)
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Has frequent grammatical errors (Band 6)

Band 7.0 Answer

The Case for Sustainable Cities

Sustainable cities offer significant advantages. Environmentally, they reduce carbon emissions through efficient public transport and green spaces. Economically, they create jobs in renewable energy and sustainable construction. For instance, cities like Copenhagen have shown that investing in bicycles and wind energy can boost employment while cutting pollution. However, critics argue that the initial costs are prohibitive. Retrofitting old buildings for energy efficiency or building new infrastructure requires substantial investment. Additionally, resistance from citizens accustomed to traditional lifestyles can hinder progress.

I firmly believe that the benefits of sustainable cities justify the costs. Governments should prioritize these investments to ensure a healthier, more prosperous future.

Scoring Breakdown

  • Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with relevant, extended arguments (Band 7)
  • Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Uses cohesive devices effectively but may occasionally overuse certain structures (Band 7)
  • Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary but with some inaccuracies (Band 7)
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Has occasional errors but generally uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms (Band 7)

Band 8.0 Answer

Balancing Cost and Benefit in Sustainable Urban Development

The push for sustainable cities is driven by the urgent need to mitigate climate change and enhance urban living conditions. Proponents highlight the environmental benefits, such as reduced air pollution and lower carbon footprints, achieved through initiatives like green building codes and renewable energy adoption. Economically, sustainable cities can stimulate innovation and create green jobs, as seen in cities like Singapore, where investments in solar energy and efficient public transport have spurred economic growth. Nevertheless, detractors point to the high initial costs and the potential for public resistance. Transitioning to sustainable practices often requires significant financial outlays and behavioral changes, which can be challenging to implement.

In my view, the long-term advantages of sustainable cities far outweigh the short-term costs. Governments should allocate resources to sustainable urban development, ensuring that these projects are well-communicated to gain public support.

Scoring Breakdown

  • Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with fully extended and supported arguments (Band 8)
  • Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Uses a range of cohesive devices effectively, though there may be occasional lapses (Band 8)
  • Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items used appropriately (Band 8)
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with frequent error-free sentences (Band 8)

Band 9.0 Answer

The Imperative of Sustainable Urbanization

The transition to sustainable cities is not merely an option but a necessity in the face of escalating climate change and resource depletion. Sustainable cities offer multifaceted benefits, including enhanced quality of life, reduced environmental degradation, and economic resilience. For instance, cities like Stockholm have successfully integrated green roofs, efficient waste management, and renewable energy sources, resulting in cleaner air and lower healthcare costs. Economically, sustainable urban development fosters innovation and job creation in sectors such as renewable energy and green construction. However, the path to sustainability is fraught with challenges. The high upfront costs of infrastructure upgrades and the need for behavioral changes among citizens can pose significant barriers. Additionally, political inertia and short-term economic priorities often hinder long-term planning.

I am convinced that the advantages of sustainable cities are paramount. Governments must prioritize sustainable urban development, leveraging public-private partnerships and community engagement to overcome financial and social hurdles. By doing so, they can ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for all.

Scoring Breakdown

  • Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with fully extended and supported arguments, using relevant examples (Band 9)
  • Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Uses cohesive devices effectively and flexibly, with a clear progression of ideas (Band 9)
  • Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with full flexibility and precision, using less common lexical items appropriately (Band 9)
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with frequent error-free sentences (Band 9)

Vocabulary Highlights

  1. Mitigate: To make less severe, serious, or painful. *Example: