This is a traffic problems essay and the specific topic is the taxing of car drivers in order to reduce these problems.
You are asked to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of introducing such a policy to tackle the issue.
This question is very clear, and it does not specifically ask you for an opinion. You just need to look at both sides of the issue.
The logical way to answer it would be to discuss each side in a different paragraph.
Sample IELTS Writing
| You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic: In order to solve traffic problems, governments should tax private car owners heavily and use the money to improve public transportation. What are the advantages and disadvantages of such a solution? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge. Write at least 250 words. |
Traffic Problems Essay – Model Answer
Traffic congestion in many cities around the world is severe. One possible solution to this problem is to impose heavy taxes on car drivers and use this money to make public transport better. This essay will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of such a measure.
One of the first benefits of such a measure is that the heavy taxes would discourage car owners from using their cars because it would become very expensive to drive. This would mean that they would begin to make use of public transport instead, thus reducing traffic problems and pollution as well. Another benefit would be that much more use would be made of public transport if it was improved. It is often the case that public transport in cities is very poor. For example, we often see old buses and trains that people would rather not use. High taxes would generate enough money to make the necessary changes.
Nevertheless, there are drawbacks to such a solution. First and foremost, this would be a heavy burden on the car drivers. At present, taxes are already high for a lot of people, and so further taxes would only mean less money at the end of the month for most people who may have no choice but to drive every day. In addition, this type of tax would likely be set at a fixed amount. This would mean that it would hit those with less money harder, whilst the rich could likely afford it. It is therefore not a fair tax.
To conclude, this solution is worth considering to improve the current situation, but there are advantages and disadvantages of introducing such a policy.
(277 words)
Evaluation of model answer
Task Achievement: Band 7
The essay clearly addresses the prompt by discussing both the benefits and drawbacks of imposing heavy taxes on car drivers to improve public transport. It provides relevant examples and explanations, particularly in the benefits section. However, the conclusion is somewhat brief, as it could reiterate or summarize the main points more thoroughly to reinforce the argument.
Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7
The essay has a logical structure, with well-organized paragraphs that separate the benefits, drawbacks, and conclusion. Cohesive devices such as “first and foremost,” “another benefit,” and “in addition” help to structure the ideas well, though some transitions could be more varied to enhance readability. For example, using phrases like “on the other hand” for the drawbacks section could improve contrast.
Lexical Resource: Band 7
The essay uses relevant vocabulary with phrases like “traffic congestion,” “discourage car owners,” “heavy burden,” and “generate enough money.” Vocabulary is generally appropriate and contextually accurate, but more varied or sophisticated word choices, such as “levy” instead of “impose” or “allocate” instead of “use,” could add polish. Expanding on specific terms related to urban planning, like “infrastructure” or “congestion mitigation,” would also strengthen the range.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7
The grammar is mostly accurate with a good range of sentence structures. Complex sentences, such as conditional phrases (“if it was improved”), are used effectively, though there are a few repetitive structures that could benefit from variety. Minor phrasing adjustments, like “public transport in many cities is often substandard” instead of “public transport in cities is very poor,” could improve clarity and sophistication.
Overall Band: 7
The essay effectively discusses the topic with clear reasoning and relevant examples. To improve, it could expand the conclusion, introduce more varied vocabulary, and refine grammatical structures for enhanced precision and complexity.
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