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IELTS Writing Task 2:
Walkable Cities (Discussion) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

Get Band 9 IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answers for walkable cities discussion topic. Learn from Band 6-9 model responses with scoring breakdowns.

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

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Get Band 9 IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answers for walkable cities discussion topic. Learn from Band 6-9 model responses with scoring breakdowns.

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Walkable Cities (Discussion) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

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The Prompt

Discussion Essay: Some people believe that cities should be designed to be walkable, while others argue that this is impractical. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Presents a position but with limited development
  • Coherence & Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Logical but with some unclear progression
  • Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Attempts varied vocabulary but with errors
  • Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Frequent errors but meaning generally clear

Answer:

Many people think that cities should be made for walking. Others say this is not possible. I think both sides have good points.

On one hand, walkable cities are good for health. People walk more and get exercise. Also, it is better for the environment because there are fewer cars. In some cities like Barcelona, they have made special paths for walking and it works well. However, some cities are too big and spread out. In places like Los Angeles, it is very hard to walk everywhere because the distances are too long.

On the other hand, making cities walkable can be difficult. It costs a lot of money to change roads and buildings. Also, some people need to drive because they have disabilities or other reasons. In my opinion, cities should try to be more walkable, but they should also consider the needs of all people.

Band 7.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response (TR): 7.0 - Presents a clear position with some development
  • Coherence & Cohesion (CC): 7.0 - Logical flow with some effective cohesion
  • Lexical Resource (LR): 7.0 - Attempts varied vocabulary with some errors
  • Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 7.0 - Some errors but generally accurate

Answer:

The idea of designing cities to be walkable has gained popularity, but there are differing opinions on its feasibility. This essay will discuss both views before presenting my opinion.

Proponents of walkable cities argue that they promote healthier lifestyles and reduce pollution. For instance, cities like Copenhagen have implemented extensive cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, leading to significant health benefits and reduced carbon emissions. Moreover, walkable cities can enhance community interactions and social cohesion. However, critics point out that implementing such designs can be costly and may not be suitable for all urban environments. In densely populated cities, space is limited, and retrofitting infrastructure can be expensive and disruptive.

In conclusion, while the benefits of walkable cities are evident, practical challenges exist. Cities should strive to incorporate walkable elements where feasible, but they must also consider the unique needs and constraints of their populations.

Band 8.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response (TR): 8.0 - Presents a clear position with thorough development
  • Coherence & Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Logical flow with effective cohesion
  • Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Uses varied vocabulary with some sophistication
  • Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Some errors but generally accurate

Answer:

The concept of walkable cities has sparked debate regarding its practicality and benefits. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting a balanced view.

Advocates for walkable cities highlight the numerous advantages they offer. Primarily, walkable urban designs promote physical health by encouraging regular exercise and reducing reliance on motor vehicles. For example, cities like Amsterdam have successfully integrated cycling paths and pedestrian zones, resulting in lower obesity rates and improved air quality. Additionally, walkable cities foster a sense of community by facilitating social interactions and reducing urban isolation. However, opponents argue that the implementation of such designs can be challenging. In sprawling cities with extensive car-dependent infrastructure, retrofitting for walkability can be costly and time-consuming. Furthermore, not all residents may support such changes, particularly those who rely on cars for mobility.

In conclusion, while the benefits of walkable cities are substantial, practical challenges must be addressed. Cities should aim to incorporate walkable elements gradually, considering the needs and preferences of their diverse populations.

Band 9.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response (TR): 9.0 - Presents a clear position with thorough, supported development
  • Coherence & Cohesion (CC): 9.0 - Logical flow with effective cohesion and progression
  • Lexical Resource (LR): 9.0 - Uses varied vocabulary with sophistication and precision
  • Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 9.0 - Uses a wide range of structures accurately

Answer:

The notion of designing cities to prioritize walkability has garnered significant attention, with proponents and critics offering compelling arguments. This essay will delve into both perspectives before presenting a nuanced stance.

Proponents of walkable cities contend that such designs yield numerous benefits. Primarily, walkable urban environments promote public health by encouraging physical activity and reducing reliance on motor vehicles. For instance, cities like Portland, Oregon, have implemented extensive pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, resulting in improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. Moreover, walkable cities enhance social cohesion by fostering community interactions and reducing urban isolation. Additionally, they contribute to environmental sustainability by lowering carbon emissions and mitigating the urban heat island effect. However, critics argue that the implementation of walkable designs can be fraught with challenges. In sprawling, car-dependent cities, retrofitting infrastructure for walkability can be prohibitively expensive and disruptive. Furthermore, not all residents may embrace such changes, particularly those with mobility impairments or those who rely on cars for their livelihoods.

In conclusion, while the advantages of walkable cities are manifold, practical challenges must be addressed through thoughtful planning and stakeholder engagement. Cities should strive to incorporate walkable elements where feasible, ensuring that such initiatives are inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of their populations.

Vocabulary Highlights

  1. Promote (verb): To encourage or support the growth or development of something.
  • Example: Walkable cities promote healthier lifestyles.
  1. Feasible (adjective): Possible to do without great effort or expense.
  • Example: Making cities walkable is feasible with proper planning.
  1. Infrastructure (noun): The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
  • Example: Cities need to invest in pedestrian infrastructure.
  1. Retrofitting (noun): The process of adding new technology or features to older systems.
  • Example: Retrofitting cities for walkability can be costly.
  1. Sprawling (adjective): Spreading out over a large area in an unplanned way.
  • Example: Sprawling cities often lack walkable infrastructure.
  1. Social Cohesion (noun): The degree of unity and interconnectedness among members of a society.
  • Example: Walkable cities enhance social cohesion.
  1. Urban Isolation (noun): The feeling of loneliness or disconnection experienced in urban environments.
  • Example: Walkable cities reduce urban isolation.
  1. Carbon Emissions (noun): The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, primarily from burning fossil fuels.
  • Example: Walkable cities reduce carbon emissions.
  1. Urban Heat Island Effect (noun): The phenomenon where urban areas are significantly warmer than their surrounding rural areas due to human activities.
  • Example: Walkable cities mitigate the urban heat island effect.
  1. Stakeholder (noun): A person or group that has an interest or concern in something, especially a business.
  • Example: Cities must engage stakeholders in walkability initiatives.
  1. Inclusive (adjective): Intending to include all groups or individuals.
  • Example: Walkability initiatives should be inclusive.
  1. Mobility Impairments (noun): Conditions that limit a person's ability to move or be mobile.
  • Example: Cities must consider residents with mobility impairments.
  1. Livelihoods (noun): The means by which a person earns a living.
  • Example: Some residents rely on cars for their livelihoods.
  1. Nuanced (adjective): Characterized by subtle differences or shades of meaning.
  • Example: A nuanced stance on walkable cities is necessary.
  1. Manifold (adjective): Many and various.
  • Example: Walkable cities offer manifold benefits.

Common Mistakes

  1. Lack of Clear Position: Failing to present a clear stance on the issue, resulting in a vague or unclear argument.
  2. Insufficient Development: Providing only superficial points without adequate explanation or examples.
  3. Poor Cohesion: Using connectors inappropriately or not using them at all, leading to a disjointed essay.
  4. Vocabulary Errors: Using advanced vocabulary incorrectly, which can confuse the reader and lower the score.
  5. Grammatical Errors: Making frequent grammatical mistakes that obscure the meaning or disrupt the flow of the essay.

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