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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

The housing shortage in big cities can cause severe social consequences. Some people think only government action can solve this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the above statement? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

The housing shortage in big cities can cause severe social consequences. Some people think only government action can solve this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the above statement?

In big cities, the shortage of housing can lead to serious social problems. Some believe that only the government can tackle this issue. I partially agree with this statement as government intervention is necessary, but other stakeholders also play a crucial role in addressing the housing crisis.

Government action is essential in addressing the housing shortage in big cities. Firstly, governments can allocate funds to build affordable housing for low-income individuals. For example, in Singapore, the government has implemented various public housing schemes to provide affordable homes for its citizens. Additionally, governments can enforce regulations to control property prices and prevent speculation, ensuring fair access to housing for all.

However, government action alone may not be sufficient to solve the housing crisis. Collaboration with private developers and non-profit organizations is crucial. These stakeholders can contribute by building mixed-use developments that include affordable housing units. For instance, in London, partnerships between the government and private developers have led to the construction of affordable housing within larger residential projects, addressing the housing needs of diverse populations.

Moreover, community involvement is vital in finding solutions to the housing shortage. Local communities can participate in urban planning processes to ensure that new developments meet the needs of residents. In some cases, community land trusts have been successful in acquiring land for affordable housing and involving residents in decision-making.

In conclusion, while government intervention is crucial in addressing the housing shortage in big cities, collaboration with private developers and community engagement are equally important. By working together, these stakeholders can implement sustainable solutions to provide adequate and affordable housing for all.

Model Essay #2:

The housing shortage in big cities can cause severe social consequences. Some people think only government action can solve this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the above statement?

The housing shortage in big cities is a pressing issue that can lead to severe social consequences. While some argue that only government intervention can resolve this problem, I completely agree with this perspective due to the complexity and scale of the issue.

Primarily, the government has the resources and authority to implement large-scale housing projects. By investing in the construction of affordable housing units, the government can directly address the shortage and provide adequate accommodation for those in need. For example, in Hong Kong, the government has initiated public housing programs to alleviate the housing crisis and ensure that low-income families have access to affordable homes.

Additionally, government intervention is essential for regulating the real estate market to prevent housing speculation and inflated prices. Through the implementation of housing policies and regulations, the government can create a fair and stable housing market, making it more accessible for a wider range of people to afford decent accommodation.

Furthermore, the government can enforce zoning laws and urban planning regulations to ensure that new developments include affordable housing options. This can help in creating inclusive and diverse neighborhoods, mitigating the negative social impacts of housing shortages such as homelessness and overcrowding.

In conclusion, the housing shortage in big cities requires significant government action to effectively address the issue. By taking the lead in funding, regulating the market, and shaping urban development, the government can play a crucial role in providing sustainable solutions to the housing crisis, ultimately leading to improved social outcomes for all residents.

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