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

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The Prompt

Many cities around the world are becoming more walkable by improving infrastructure for pedestrians. What are the advantages and disadvantages of making cities more walkable?

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

The advantages of walkable cities are many. First, it is good for health because people can walk more. Second, it can reduce traffic jam. However, there are some disadvantages. For example, it can be expensive to build new sidewalks and crossings. Also, not all people can walk, so they need other transport.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR) 5.0: Presents a position but with limited development.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC) 6.0: Ideas are logically organized but with some repetition.
• Lexical Resource (LR) 6.0: Uses some appropriate vocabulary but with errors and limited range.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA) 6.0: Makes frequent grammatical errors that impede understanding.

Band 7.0 Answer

Walkable cities offer numerous benefits, such as improved public health and reduced traffic congestion. However, there are also drawbacks, including high costs and accessibility issues for those with mobility impairments.

On the positive side, walkable cities promote physical activity, which can lead to better health outcomes. Additionally, fewer cars on the road mean less pollution and reduced traffic jams. On the negative side, the initial investment in infrastructure can be substantial. Furthermore, not everyone can walk long distances, so alternative transportation options must be considered.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR) 7.0: Presents a clear position with some development and extension.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC) 7.0: Ideas are logically organized with some use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource (LR) 7.0: Uses a mix of appropriate vocabulary with some errors and limited range.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA) 7.0: Makes some grammatical errors but generally maintains clarity.

Band 8.0 Answer

The trend towards creating more walkable cities has gained momentum in recent years, and for good reason. While the benefits are manifold, it is essential to consider the potential drawbacks as well.

One of the most significant advantages of walkable cities is the positive impact on public health. Encouraging people to walk more can reduce the incidence of obesity, heart disease, and other health issues. Additionally, walkable cities can lead to reduced traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment. However, the transition to more walkable cities is not without its challenges. The initial cost of building new infrastructure, such as sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly streets, can be substantial. Moreover, not all residents may be able to walk long distances, necessitating the continued availability of alternative transportation options.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR) 8.0: Presents a clear position with thorough development and extension.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC) 8.0: Ideas are logically organized with effective use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource (LR) 8.0: Uses a wide range of appropriate vocabulary with few errors.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA) 8.0: Makes occasional grammatical errors but generally maintains clarity and accuracy.

Band 9.0 Answer

The global shift towards creating more walkable cities is a testament to the numerous benefits they offer, from improved public health to reduced environmental impact. However, it is crucial to acknowledge and address the potential drawbacks to ensure that these initiatives are successful and inclusive.

One of the most compelling advantages of walkable cities is the positive impact on public health. By encouraging people to walk more, cities can reduce the incidence of obesity, heart disease, and other health issues. Additionally, walkable cities can lead to reduced traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment. Furthermore, walkable cities can foster a sense of community and social cohesion, as residents are more likely to interact with one another in shared public spaces.

However, the transition to more walkable cities is not without its challenges. The initial cost of building new infrastructure, such as sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly streets, can be substantial. Moreover, not all residents may be able to walk long distances, necessitating the continued availability of alternative transportation options. Additionally, there may be resistance from certain groups, such as drivers or businesses that rely on car traffic, who may perceive walkable cities as a threat to their interests.

To ensure that walkable cities are successful and inclusive, it is essential to address these challenges proactively. This may involve investing in alternative transportation options, such as public transit or bike-sharing programs, to ensure that all residents can access the benefits of walkable cities. Additionally, it may be necessary to engage with stakeholders, such as drivers or businesses, to address their concerns and find mutually beneficial solutions.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR) 9.0: Presents a clear position with thorough development and extension, supported by relevant examples.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC) 9.0: Ideas are logically organized with effective use of cohesive devices and paragraphing.
• Lexical Resource (LR) 9.0: Uses a wide range of appropriate vocabulary with precise and sophisticated usage.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA) 9.0: Uses a wide range of grammatical structures with minimal errors.

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Infrastructure: The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities (e.g., buildings, roads, and power supplies) needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
2. Pedestrians: People who are walking, especially in a town or city.
3. Congestion: A situation in which there are too many people or vehicles in one place, causing delays and problems.
4. Accessibility: The quality of being able to be reached or entered easily.
5. Mobility impairments: Physical disabilities that limit a person's ability to move.
6. Incidence: The occurrence, rate, or frequency of something.
7. Carbon emissions: The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, often as a result of burning fossil fuels.
8. Stakeholders: A person or group that has an interest in a company or organization, such as an investor, employee, or customer.
9. Proactively: In a way that creates or controls a situation by making things happen rather than waiting to respond to them after they happen.
10. Mutually beneficial: Providing advantages to both or all parties involved.

Common Mistakes

1. Lack of Balance: Failing to address both the positive and negative aspects of the topic.
2. Repetition: Repeating the same ideas or vocabulary without adding new information.
3. Grammatical Errors: Making frequent grammatical errors that impede understanding.
4. Limited Vocabulary: Using a limited range of vocabulary, which can make the writing seem unnatural or repetitive.
5. Poor Organization: Failing to organize ideas logically, which can make the writing difficult to follow.

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