IELTS PRACTICE TASK 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
In many cities around the world, people face the problem of serious air pollution. This can have a negative effect on their health and quality of life.
What do you think are the causes of this problem and how should it be solved?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.
Write at least 250 words.
A Problem/Solution Essay – Sample answer Band Score 8
One of the world’s most challenging problems today is air pollution. In some cities it has become so bad that local authorities have to advise people to stay indoors. Even when levels of air pollution are reasonable, residents and commuters still need to wear masks so they do not inhale pollutants. At the end of a day, their skin, hair and clothes have become dirty. This is no way to live.
What are the main causes of this situation? Speaking from experience, I can say that in my city, we always wake up with thick smog – a mixture of carbon dioxide and other gases. This smog is produced by the factories on the borders of the city. So, in my opinion, industry can certainly be blamed for a high proportion of the air pollution in cities. The only way to reduce these emissions is through advances in engineering. Governments must invest in technologies that reduce the pollution from factories and make our air cleaner.
Another important cause of air pollution is the high number of private cars on the roads. These days, everyone wants to use his own vehicle and not use public transport. But what is more important – your personal comfort in the short term or your health in the long term? And the more our population will grow, the more cars there will be on the streets. To my knowledge, our government is thinking about introducing some pedestrian-only areas in the inner city. I think this is an idea that all people should follow.
In conclusion, air pollution is not a simple issue to solve. However, we owe it to future generations to try.
(276 words)
Task Response: 8 The answer fully addresses all parts of the task. The writer’s position is made clear with fully extended and well supported ideas.
Coherence and Cohesion: 8 All aspects of cohesion are managed well.
Lexical Resource: 8 A wide range of vocabulary is used to convey exact meaning, and uncommon lexical items are also skilfully employed for this topic. There are occasional inaccuracies in word choice.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 7 A variety of complex structures are used and there is generally good control of grammar and punctuation. A few errors are present but do not impede communication.
