IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1489 - Whether it is better to live in a city or in a countryside
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
It is thought by some people that it is better to live in a city while others believe that life is better in the countryside.
Discuss both these views and give your opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1: [View: It is better to live in a city]
Living preferences often vary widely among individuals, with some advocating for the advantages of city life, while others extol the virtues of rural tranquillity. While both settings have their merits, I am inclined to believe that urban living offers more opportunities and conveniences for a fulfilling life. This essay will discuss both these views and explain why I believe living in a city has more perks.
To commence with the advantages of rural living, there is a serene and tranquil environment in the countryside that provides respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The fresh air, close-knit communities, and scenic landscapes in rural areas offer a peaceful and serene lifestyle. For instance, living in a countryside village allows individuals to escape noise pollution and enjoy the beauty of nature.
On the other hand, cities boast an array of opportunities and amenities that are unparalleled. Urban areas are thriving hubs of culture, commerce, and diversity. Cities offer a plethora of job opportunities, educational institutions, cultural events, and recreational facilities. Additionally, cities are hubs of innovation and progress, fostering an environment conducive to personal and professional growth. For example, cities like London, New York, or Tokyo are cosmopolitan centres that attract diverse talents, offer diverse career prospects, and facilitate exposure to various cultures and experiences.
Personally, I lean towards the advantages of urban living. The fast-paced lifestyle, cultural diversity, job opportunities, and access to top-notch facilities in cities provide an environment that fosters personal growth and broadens horizons. While the countryside offers peace and tranquillity, I believe that the dynamism and opportunities available in cities make them a more appealing choice for a well-rounded and progressive life.
In conclusion, while rural areas offer serenity and natural beauty, the myriad of opportunities, conveniences, and experiences available in cities make urban living a more suitable option for those seeking diverse opportunities and personal growth.
Model Answer 2: [View: It is better to live in the countryside]
Opinions diverge on whether city life or countryside living offers a superior lifestyle. While some advocate for the advantages of urban living, others praise the purity of rural tranquillity. This essay will outline both perspectives and opine that the benefits of residing in the countryside are far greater, considering the tranquillity and natural beauty it offers.
Supporters of city living often highlight the conveniences and opportunities abundant in urban areas. Cities are vibrant hubs of culture, commerce, and diverse opportunities. For instance, cities offer a myriad of employment opportunities, access to quality healthcare, cultural diversity, and various recreational activities. Additionally, cities boast modern amenities and infrastructure, making life more comfortable and convenient.
Conversely, proponents of countryside living emphasize the serenity, fresh air, and closer connection to nature. Living in rural areas allows individuals to escape the frenetic pace of urban life, experience a quieter environment, and enjoy picturesque landscapes. For example, living in a countryside village enables people to form stronger community bonds, partake in agricultural activities, and lead a slower-paced lifestyle.
In my view, the countryside presents an ideal environment for a more peaceful and fulfilling life. Away from the noise and congestion of cities, rural areas offer an opportunity to appreciate nature's beauty, lead a simpler lifestyle, and build stronger community ties. Living amidst natural landscapes fosters a sense of tranquillity and inner peace, contributing to overall well-being and mental health.
In conclusion, while urban areas offer a multitude of conveniences and opportunities, I firmly believe that the countryside provides a more serene and fulfilling lifestyle. The tranquillity, connection to nature, and slower pace of life in rural settings make it a preferable choice for those seeking a peaceful and harmonious existence.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay Question:
It is thought by some people that it is better to live in a city while others believe that life is better in the countryside.
Discuss both these views and give your opinion.
Essay Type: Discussion Essay
The main question of this IELTS Essay:
A) Why do some people think living in a city is better?
B) Why do others believe that life is better in the countryside?
C) What is your opinion on this issue?
Why Some People Prefer Living in a City:
Better job opportunities and career growth:
Cities offer a wide range of employment opportunities, including high-paying jobs and professional networking possibilities, which attract ambitious individuals. For example, major financial hubs like London and New York provide better career prospects in industries such as banking, technology, and healthcare.
Access to modern healthcare and education:
Urban areas have well-equipped hospitals, specialized medical services, and top universities, ensuring a higher standard of healthcare and education. For example, people living in cities can consult expert doctors and enroll their children in prestigious institutions such as Oxford University or Harvard.
Convenient infrastructure and public transport:
Cities have well-developed transportation systems, making commuting easier and more efficient compared to rural areas. For example, cities like Tokyo and Paris have extensive metro systems that allow people to travel quickly without needing personal vehicles.
Diverse entertainment and cultural activities:
Urban centers offer various leisure activities, including concerts, museums, cinemas, and international cuisine, making city life more vibrant. For example, Broadway in New York and the West End in London attract millions of visitors due to their world-famous theatre performances.
Why Some People Prefer Living in the Countryside:
Peaceful and less stressful environment:
The countryside offers a slower pace of life, with lower noise and air pollution, which contributes to better mental and physical health. For example, studies show that people living in rural areas experience lower stress levels compared to those in bustling cities.
Closer connection to nature:
Rural areas provide access to natural landscapes, fresh air, and outdoor activities, which promote a healthier and more active lifestyle. For example, people living in villages can enjoy hiking, fishing, and farming as part of their daily routine.
Lower cost of living:
Housing and daily expenses are generally more affordable in the countryside compared to cities, allowing people to enjoy a higher quality of life with less financial burden. For example, renting an apartment in central London is significantly more expensive than owning a house in a small town in Wales.
Stronger sense of community:
Villages and small towns often have close-knit communities where people support and interact with each other more frequently. For example, in rural areas, neighbors are more likely to engage in local events and help each other in times of need.
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