This model essay is about old buildings and whether they should be protected or not. It is quite a difficult question, so you will need to brainstorm your ideas carefully.
| Many old buildings protected by law are part of a nation’s history. Some people think they should be knocked down and replaced by news ones. How important is it to maintain old buildings? Should history stand in the way of progress? |
Breaking the Question Down
It is basically an opinion essay, as you have to give your opinion on protecting old buildings. However, it does not ask you whether you agree or disagree. You need to evaluate and bring your reasons for each part.
There are two parts to this essay question, so you must answer both.
1) How important is it to protect old buildings?
For the first part, you have to decide which opinion you have:
- Yes, it’s very important – reasons why; OR
- No, it’s unimportant – reasons why
2) Should history stand in the way of progress?
In this part, you need to give your opinion on whether you think history is so important it should take priority over a country’s progress.
Essay on Old Buildings
| You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic: Many old buildings protected by law are part of a nation’s history. Some people think they should be knocked down and replaced by news ones. How important is it to maintain old buildings? Should history stand in the way of progress? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge. Write at least 250 words. |
Model Answer
Most nations around the world have at least some, or possibly many, old buildings such as temples, churches, and houses in their cities, villages, and surrounding areas that have historical significance. In my opinion, it is very important to maintain these, but this does not mean progress should stop.
Preserving certain old buildings is important for several reasons. Firstly, these structures provide insight into the history of our countries, showing us how people lived their lives many centuries ago. Without them, we could only learn by books, and it would undoubtedly be sad if this were the only way to see them. Many of these buildings are also very beautiful. Take, for example, the many religious buildings, such as churches and temples, that we see around the world. Not only this but on a more practical level, many of these buildings provide important income to a country as many tourists visit them in great numbers.
However, this certainly does not mean that modernization should be discouraged. I believe that old buildings can be protected in tandem with progress. For example, in many circumstances, we see old historic buildings being renovated while maintaining their original character and being used for modern purposes. Also, in no way does history hinder progress; in fact, it is the opposite. By studying and learning about our history, we understand more about the world we live in, and this helps us to build a better future.
To conclude, I believe that it is very important to protect and preserve old buildings. By doing so, we can learn about our history, as can others from other countries. Such knowledge can also help us understand how to modernize our countries in the best way.
(Words 303)
Evaluation:
Task Achievement: Band 8
The essay addresses both parts of the task—discussing the importance of preserving old buildings and exploring whether history hinders progress. It provides clear arguments supported by relevant examples, such as the use of religious buildings and tourism benefits. However, it could benefit from more specific examples, like mentioning a well-known historic site, to strengthen the argument.
Coherence and Cohesion: Band 8
The essay is well-structured with an introduction, two main body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Ideas flow logically, and linking words like “Firstly,” “However,” and “For example” effectively guide the reader. Some sentences could be slightly refined for better cohesion, such as combining ideas more fluidly within the same paragraph.
Lexical Resource: Band 7.5–8
The vocabulary is appropriate and varied, with phrases like “historical significance,” “in tandem with progress,” and “renovated while maintaining their original character.” However, there is some repetition, such as the frequent use of “buildings,” which could be replaced with synonyms like “structures” or “landmarks” for variety.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 8
The essay demonstrates a range of grammatical structures, including conditionals, passive voice, and complex sentences (e.g., “Without them, we could only learn by books, and it would undoubtedly be sad if this were the only way to see them”). There are minor areas where sentence construction could be refined for clarity and conciseness.
Overall Band: 8
This essay effectively fulfills the task with strong arguments, clear organization, and a good range of vocabulary and grammar. To achieve a higher score, it could include more specific examples and improve lexical variety.
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