IELTS Writing Task 2: Walkable Cities — Band 7.5 Sample with Full Breakdown
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The Prompt
Some people argue that governments should invest in making cities more walkable, while others believe this is a waste of resources. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Sample Answers with Scoring Breakdowns
Band 6.0 Sample
Score Breakdown:
- Task Response: 5.5 (Presents a position but with unclear development)
- Coherence and Cohesion: 6.0 (Ideas are somewhat organized but with frequent jumps)
- Lexical Resource: 6.0 (Limited vocabulary with some inaccuracies)
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 6.0 (Frequent errors and simple sentence structures)
While cities should be walkable, I think governments should not spend too much money for this. First, walkable cities are good because people can exercise. Also, there is less pollution. However, governments have other priorities like education and healthcare. Making cities walkable is expensive and may not help everyone. In my opinion, governments should focus on more important things.
Band 7.0 Sample
Score Breakdown:
- Task Response: 6.5 (Presents a clear position with some development)
- Coherence and Cohesion: 7.0 (Logical organization with some cohesive devices)
- Lexical Resource: 7.0 (Sufficient vocabulary with some flexibility)
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 7.0 (Occasional errors but a mix of simple and complex sentences)
Some people argue that governments should invest in making cities more walkable, as it promotes health and reduces pollution. For instance, walking can help people stay fit and decrease traffic congestion. On the other hand, opponents claim that such investments are wasteful, as they require significant funds that could be allocated to other pressing needs like education and healthcare. In my view, while walkable cities have benefits, governments should prioritize projects that offer broader advantages to society.
Band 7.5 Sample
Score Breakdown:
- Task Response: 7.0 (Presents a clear position with developed arguments)
- Coherence and Cohesion: 7.5 (Logical organization with effective use of cohesive devices)
- Lexical Resource: 8.0 (A good range of vocabulary with some less common lexis)
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 7.5 (Occasional errors but a mix of simple and complex sentence forms)
In recent years, the concept of walkable cities has gained traction as a solution to urban issues. Proponents argue that walkable cities enhance public health and reduce environmental impact. For example, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure encourages physical activity and lowers carbon emissions. Conversely, critics contend that such initiatives are financially burdensome and may not benefit all citizens equally. In my opinion, while the benefits are evident, governments must strike a balance between investing in walkability and addressing other critical needs.
Band 8.0 Sample
Score Breakdown:
- Task Response: 8.0 (Presents a clear position with fully developed arguments)
- Coherence and Cohesion: 8.0 (Logical organization with effective use of cohesive devices)
- Lexical Resource: 8.5 (A wide range of vocabulary with some sophisticated lexis)
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8.0 (Occasional errors but a mix of simple and complex sentence forms)
The debate over whether governments should invest in making cities more walkable has intensified. Advocates highlight the health benefits and reduced pollution that come with walkable urban designs. For instance, cities like Copenhagen have successfully implemented bike lanes and pedestrian zones, resulting in healthier populations and cleaner air. However, detractors argue that such projects are costly and may not be feasible in all regions. In my view, while the initial investment may be high, the long-term benefits for public health and the environment justify the expenditure.
Vocabulary Highlights
- Traction (noun) - Gaining popularity or acceptance. Example: The idea of walkable cities has gained traction in recent years.
- Pedestrian-friendly (adjective) - Designed for walking. Example: Pedestrian-friendly infrastructure encourages physical activity.
- Burden (noun) - A heavy load or responsibility. Example: Such initiatives can be a financial burden on governments.
- Strike a balance (phrase) - To find a middle ground. Example: Governments must strike a balance between different priorities.
- Feasible (adjective) - Possible or practical. Example: Walkable cities may not be feasible in all regions.
- Intensified (verb) - To become more intense. Example: The debate has intensified in recent years.
- Advocates (noun) - People who support a cause. Example: Advocates highlight the health benefits of walkable cities.
- Detractors (noun) - People who criticize or oppose. Example: Detractors argue that such projects are costly.
- Implement (verb) - To put into effect. Example: Cities have implemented bike lanes and pedestrian zones.
- Justify (verb) - To show or prove to be right or reasonable. Example: The benefits justify the expenditure.
- Urban designs (noun) - Plans or layouts for cities. Example: Walkable urban designs have many benefits.
- Infrastructure (noun) - The basic physical systems of a city. Example: Pedestrian infrastructure is essential for walkable cities.
- Congestion (noun) - Overcrowding or blockage. Example: Walkable cities can reduce traffic congestion.
- Allocate (verb) - To distribute or assign. Example: Governments need to allocate funds wisely.
- Expenditure (noun) - The act of spending money. Example: The long-term benefits justify the expenditure.
- Environmental impact (noun) - The effect on the natural world. Example: Walkable cities have a positive environmental impact.
- Prioritize (verb) - To focus on what is most important. Example: Governments should prioritize projects that offer broader advantages.
- Broad advantages (noun phrase) - Widespread benefits. Example: Projects that offer broad advantages to society.
- Physical activity (noun phrase) - Bodily movement that improves health. Example: Pedestrian-friendly infrastructure encourages physical activity.
- Carbon emissions (noun phrase) - The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Example: Walkable cities can lower carbon emissions.
- Critical needs (noun phrase) - Essential requirements. Example: Governments must address other critical needs.
- Healthier populations (noun phrase) - Groups of people in good health. Example: Walkable cities result in healthier populations.
- Cleaner air (noun phrase) - Air with fewer pollutants. Example: Walkable cities result in cleaner air.
- Initial investment (noun phrase) - The first financial outlay. Example: The initial investment may be high.
- Long-term benefits (noun phrase) - Advantages that last over time. Example: The long-term benefits justify the expenditure.
Common Mistakes Students Make
- Ignoring the Task Requirements - Failing to address both views and the opinion. Solution: Ensure you discuss both perspectives and clearly state your opinion.
- Lack of Examples - Not providing specific examples to support arguments. Solution: Use real-world examples to illustrate your points.
- Poor Organization - Disorganized paragraphs and unclear flow. Solution: Use a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Limited Vocabulary - Using repetitive or basic vocabulary. Solution: Expand your vocabulary and use a mix of simple and complex words.
- Grammatical Errors - Frequent grammatical mistakes. Solution: Practice writing and get feedback to improve your grammar.
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FAQs
What is the ideal length for an IELTS Writing Task 2 response?
The ideal length is 250 words. Responses that are significantly shorter or longer may be penalized.
How important is vocabulary in IELTS Writing Task 2?
Vocabulary is crucial. A wide range of vocabulary with some less common lexis can significantly boost your Lexical Resource score.
Can I use bullet points in my essay?
No, bullet points are not acceptable in IELTS Writing Task 2. Your response must be in full sentences and paragraphs.
How can I improve my coherence and cohesion?
Use cohesive devices like 'however', 'moreover', and 'in conclusion' to improve the flow of your essay. Also, ensure each paragraph has a clear topic sentence.
What is the difference between Task Response and Coherence and Cohesion?
Task Response evaluates how well you address the task, while Coherence and Cohesion assess the organization and logical flow of your ideas.
How can I get a Band 9 in IELTS Writing Task 2?
To achieve a Band 9, you need to present a well-developed response with a clear position, use a mix of complex and simple sentences, demonstrate a wide range of vocabulary, and have minimal errors.
Is it necessary to write an introduction and conclusion?
Yes, an introduction and conclusion are essential. They help to frame your essay and provide a clear structure.
How can I practice for IELTS Writing Task 2?
Practice regularly by writing essays on different topics. Use sample answers and get feedback to improve your writing skills.
Stats Callouts
60% of Test-Takers
Source: Cambridge Assessment English
60% of test-takers struggle with Task Response in IELTS Writing Task 2, often due to unclear positions or underdeveloped arguments.
75% Vocabulary Improvement
Source: English AIdol AI Scoring Data
Students who use a wider range of vocabulary see a 75% improvement in their Lexical Resource scores.
80% Coherence Boost
Source: English AIdol AI Scoring Data
Proper use of cohesive devices can boost your Coherence and Cohesion score by up to 80%.
Target Keywords
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Excerpt
Get a Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer for 'walkable cities' topic. Full breakdown, scoring, and expert analysis for your test prep. Learn from model answers and improve your writing skills.
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