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The IELTS Writing Task 2 checks students’ ability to think carefully and present well-structured arguments. Among the many debated topics, one important and commonly discussed issue is the statement: Some people believe that in a city, the best way to travel is by car, while other people argue that bicycles are a better way of travelling in a city. Discuss both views and give your opinion. In this write-up, we will provide three sample responses, each presenting a unique perspective on the topic. Additionally, lexical analysis and the meanings of difficult words will be included to help students enhance their understanding and improve their writing skills.
Here are 3 different perspectives for the topic IELTS Writing Task 2 ‘Some people say a car Is the best way to Travel Through a City While Others Support Travelling With Bicycles. Discuss Both Sides and Share Your Opinion,’ along with lexical resources and their respective word meanings. Check out each one and find the easy solutions to score good marks.
Cars and Bicycles: Which Is Better for City Travel?: Sample Structure 1
Introduction
- Start by talking about how people travel in cities.
- Mention that some people think cars are the best, while others prefer bicycles.
- Briefly say why people choose each and clearly give your opinion.
Body Paragraph 1
- Talk about why some people think cars are better.
- Explain how cars are fast, comfortable, and useful for long trips or bad weather.
- Give an example of a city where cars are needed.
Body Paragraph 2
- Now explain the reasons people prefer bicycles.
- Mention how bikes are cheaper, don’t pollute, and help people stay healthy.
- Give examples of cities that support cycling well.
Body Paragraph 3
- Share your own opinion about the topic.
- Say that both cars and bicycles are useful in different situations.
- Explain why bicycles are better for short and daily city travel.
Conclusion
- Summarise the two sides of the argument.
- Repeat your opinion that bicycles are a better choice for most city travel.
Sample Essay 1
With the rapid growth of cities worldwide, the choice of daily transport is a major concern for citizens. Some people believe that in a city, the best way to travel is by car, while other people argue that bicycles are a better way of travelling in a city. Both views highlight different priorities such as speed, comfort, and environmental concerns. In this essay, I will explore both sides and share my own opinion.
Supporters of car travel point to comfort, speed, and weather protection. Cars offer the freedom to travel long distances at any time without physical effort. They are useful for families or individuals carrying luggage or shopping bags. In many cities, cars are a necessity due to underdeveloped public transport or long commutes between home and work.
On the other hand, bicycles are gaining popularity for being environment-friendly and cost-effective. They help reduce air pollution, noise, and traffic congestion. Cycling also improves physical health, lowers travel costs, and is ideal for short distances. Many cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen have created bike-friendly lanes, encouraging people to choose bicycles over cars.
Although cars offer flexibility, they also add to traffic jams and high fuel consumption. Bicycles, while slower, can often reach places more quickly during peak hours and do not require parking space. Therefore, for short and medium city distances, bicycles are often the smarter and cleaner choice.
In conclusion, while cars serve their purpose for longer and more complex travel needs, bicycles present a more sustainable and healthier option for most urban routes. City planners should focus on promoting cycling by improving road safety and infrastructure for bicycles.
Lexical Resources
| Word | Synonyms | Antonyms |
| Commute | Travel, journey | Stay, settle |
| Convenience | Ease, comfort | Difficulty, inconvenience |
| Congestion | Traffic jam, overcrowding | Flow, clearance |
| Sustainable | Eco-friendly, renewable | Harmful, wasteful |
| Infrastructure | Facilities, systems | Disrepair, neglect |
| Emissions | Exhaust, pollutants | Purity, cleanliness |
| Flexibility | Adaptability, versatility | Rigidity, inflexibility |
| Urban | City-based, metropolitan | Rural, countryside |
| Efficiency | Productivity, effectiveness | Inefficiency, waste |
| Pollution | Contamination, impurity | Cleanliness, purity |
Word Meaning
| Word | Meaning |
| Commute | Regular travel between home and workplace. She commutes by car every morning. |
| Convenience | Something that makes life easier or more comfortable. Cars offer more convenience. |
| Congestion | The state of being overcrowded, especially with vehicles. Traffic congestion is common. |
| Sustainable | Not causing harm to the environment and lasting a long time. Bikes are sustainable. |
| Infrastructure | Basic systems and services in a city. Better infrastructure supports cycling. |
| Emissions | Harmful gases released into the air. Car emissions pollute the air. |
| Flexibility | Ability to adapt to new situations easily. Bikes offer more flexibility in traffic. |
| Urban | Related to cities. Urban travel needs better planning. |
| Efficiency | Doing something well without wasting time or resources. Bikes increase travel efficiency. |
| Pollution | Dirty or harmful substances in the environment. Vehicles are major causes of pollution. |
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Cars and Bicycles: Which Is Better for City Travel? Sample Structure 2
Introduction
- Talk about traffic and pollution problems in cities.
- Say that many people think cities should choose bicycles over cars.
- Say that you agree, and give a short idea of why.
Body Paragraph 1
- Explain how cars cause traffic and air pollution.
- Talk about health problems caused by dirty air.
- Give an example of a busy or polluted city.
Body Paragraph 2
- Show how bikes can help fix city problems.
- Explain that bikes don’t need fuel, make no noise, and keep people fit.
- Mention cities where cycling works well.
Body Paragraph 3
- Talk about problems like safety or missing bike paths.
- Give simple ideas on how cities can solve these problems.
- Say that these are small issues and cycling is still better.
Conclusion
- Say again that bicycles are a better option than cars in cities.
- End with advice for governments to make cities more bike-friendly.
Sample Essay 2
Urban transport plays a key role in shaping the quality of life in cities. Among the many opinions on this issue, one that stands out is that bicycles are better than cars when it comes to city travel. While cars are faster and more comfortable, I believe that bicycles are a smarter and more sustainable option for daily city commuting.
Firstly, bicycles help reduce pollution, which is a major issue in growing cities. Cars release harmful gases that damage the environment and increase health risks for residents. Bicycles, in contrast, run on human energy and cause no pollution. They also reduce noise on city roads, creating a more peaceful urban atmosphere.
Secondly, cycling supports an active lifestyle. People who use bicycles daily stay physically fit and are less likely to suffer from lifestyle-related diseases. Unlike sitting in a car for long hours, cycling builds stamina and improves heart health. Moreover, bicycles cost much less than cars and have lower maintenance needs.
However, many still choose cars because they protect from weather and are faster for long distances. In extreme heat, rain, or cold, cycling may become uncomfortable. But with proper planning and infrastructure like covered bike paths and locker facilities at workplaces, these problems can be managed.
To sum up, while cars may offer greater convenience for long distances and poor weather conditions, bicycles are far better suited for city environments. They are cheaper, healthier, and kinder to the environment. As cities move toward a greener future, bicycles should be encouraged as a primary mode of transport for daily travel.
Lexical Resources
| Word | Synonyms | Antonyms |
| Affordability | Cost-effectiveness, low cost | Expensiveness, luxury |
| Eco-conscious | Environmentally aware, green | Careless, polluting |
| Initiative | Program, campaign | Inaction, neglect |
| Fitness | Health, well-being | Sickness, weakness |
| Accessible | Available, reachable | Inaccessible, limited |
| Promote | Encourage, support | Discourage, oppose |
| Environmentally Friendly | Green, sustainable | Harmful, damaging |
| Inclusive | Open, universal | Exclusive, restricted |
| Reliable | Dependable, trustworthy | Unreliable, uncertain |
| Incentive | Reward, motivation | Deterrent, punishment |
Word Meaning
| Word | Synonyms | Antonyms |
| Mobility | Movement, transportation | Immobility, stillness |
| Pollution | Contamination, dirt | Cleanliness, purity |
| Congestion | Traffic, blockage | Flow, openness |
| Sustainability | Longevity, eco-friendliness | Wastefulness, short-term |
| Implementation | Execution, action | Delay, neglect |
| Transition | Shift, change | Stability, continuation |
| Investment | Funding, spending | Withdrawal, divestment |
| Awareness | Knowledge, understanding | Ignorance, unawareness |
| Reinforce | Strengthen, support | Weaken, oppose |
| Urban Planning | City design, development | Disorder, mismanagement |
Explore:
Should We Use Cars or Bicycles to Travel in Cities? Sample Structure 3
Introduction
- Begin by explaining how traffic and pollution are big problems in many cities.
- Say that many people think bicycles are a better option than cars.
- Clearly state your opinion (agree/disagree).
- Briefly mention your main reasons for the opinion.
Body Paragraph 1
- Talk about how cars increase traffic jams and pollution.
- Explain how this affects the environment and people’s health.
- Give an example of a city that suffers from these problems.
Body Paragraph 2
- Talk about how bicycles help reduce traffic and pollution.
- Explain that bikes are cheap, healthy, and don’t need fuel.
- Give examples of cities (like Amsterdam or Copenhagen) where bikes work well.
Body Paragraph 3
- Mention some challenges with using bikes, such as safety and lack of bike lanes.
- Explain how cities can fix these problems with better planning and awareness.
- Still, show why bikes are a better long-term solution.
Conclusion
- Repeat your opinion that bicycles are better for cities than cars.
- Briefly list the main reasons again.
- Suggest that cities should make cycling easier and safer for everyone.
Sample Essay 2
With increasing traffic congestion and worsening air quality in cities, the way people move around urban areas has become an important topic of discussion. While some argue that cars are necessary for comfort and convenience, others believe that bicycles offer a smarter and more sustainable alternative. Although both sides have valid points, I strongly believe that bicycles are the better option for daily city travel.
Cars have long been seen as a symbol of convenience and speed. They are ideal for travelling long distances, transporting goods, or commuting during harsh weather. Families often prefer cars because they offer privacy and protection. In large metropolitan cities, where key places are often far apart, cars seem to provide a quick and direct route.
However, the downsides of using cars in cities are growing rapidly. More cars on the road lead to traffic jams, longer travel times, and serious air pollution. Urban air quality often suffers due to vehicle emissions, which can result in respiratory problems and poor public health. For instance, cities like New Delhi struggle with dangerous levels of pollution caused in part by heavy car usage.
On the other hand, bicycles offer a cleaner and more efficient solution to many of these problems. Bicycles do not rely on fuel, are inexpensive to maintain, and help reduce traffic. They are also compact and easy to park, making them ideal for short urban trips. Cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen have successfully built bicycle-friendly infrastructure, leading to cleaner air, healthier people, and smoother traffic flow.
Still, there are some concerns with cycling, especially around safety and lack of proper bike lanes. In cities that are not designed for bicycles, cyclists often face risks. However, these challenges can be solved through better planning, awareness campaigns, and proper cycling paths. With the right support, cycling can become safe and accessible for all.
In conclusion, while cars may still be necessary for specific needs, bicycles are clearly more suitable for regular city travel. They are affordable, eco-friendly, and help improve both health and traffic conditions. With smart planning and investment in cycling infrastructure, cities can shift toward a cleaner, safer, and more active way of life.
Lexical Resources
| Word | Synonyms | Antonyms |
| Congestion | Traffic jam, overcrowding | Flow, openness |
| Convenience | Comfort, ease | Difficulty, hardship |
| Sustainable | Eco-friendly, renewable | Harmful, wasteful |
| Emissions | Pollutants, exhaust | Purity, absorption |
| Infrastructure | Facilities, framework | Neglect, disrepair |
| Efficient | Productive, effective | Wasteful, ineffective |
| Affordable | Inexpensive, low-cost | Expensive, unaffordable |
| Safety | Security, protection | Danger, risk |
| Awareness | Understanding, knowledge | Ignorance, neglect |
| Investment | Funding, spending | Withdrawal, divestment |
Word Meaning
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
| Congestion | Overcrowding on roads, causing slow movement | Traffic congestion makes commuting longer in large cities. |
| Convenience | The state of being easy or useful | Cars offer more convenience during bad weather and long trips. |
| Sustainable | Able to be maintained without harming the environment | Bicycles are a sustainable way to reduce city pollution. |
| Emissions | Gases released from vehicles or factories into the air | Vehicle emissions are a major cause of poor urban air quality. |
| Infrastructure | Physical systems like roads and transport that support city functions | Copenhagen has strong bicycle infrastructure to support daily commuting. |
| Efficient | Doing something well without wasting time or energy | Cycling is an efficient way to move through busy city streets. |
| Affordable | Not costing a lot; reasonably priced | Bikes are affordable for most people and require little maintenance. |
| Safety | Protection from danger or risk | The lack of proper bike lanes affects the safety of cyclists. |
| Awareness | Knowledge or understanding of a topic or issue | Public awareness about environmental health is increasing worldwide. |
| Investment | The act of putting money, time, or effort into something to improve it | Investment in cycling infrastructure can transform city travel. |
From the above discussion, we can conclude that the topic ‘Some People Believe That in a City, the Best Way To Travel Is by Car, While Other People Argue That Bicycles Are a Better Way of Travelling in a City’ highlights two practical views. While cars offer speed and comfort, bicycles promote health and reduce pollution. Though we cannot completely avoid cars, encouraging the use of bicycles for short city trips can lead to cleaner, safer, and more efficient urban travel. Balancing both modes wisely can help cities grow in a healthier and more healthier way.
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Answer: IELTS Writing Task 2 is a formal essay-writing task where candidates respond to a question in at least 250 words. It tests your ability to present ideas clearly, support arguments, and use formal, academic English.
Answer: Writing Task 2 is scored on four areas: task response, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy. Each carries equal weight and helps determine your final band score out of 9.
Answer: Common essay types include opinion, discussion, advantage, disadvantage, problem, solution, and double-question essays. Each requires a specific approach but must include clear structure, relevant examples, and well-developed ideas in a formal tone.
Answer: An ideal for writing task 2 structure includes four to five paragraphs: introduction, two or three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should focus on one idea with supporting points and examples to ensure clarity and cohesion.
Answer: Some common mistakes to avoid writing under 250 words, repeating ideas, using informal language, or lacking structure. Always answer all parts of the question clearly and support your points with relevant examples to score higher.
We hope this blog on the topic ‘Some People Believe That in a City, the Best Way To Travel Is by Car, While Other People Argue That Bicycles Are a Better Way of Travelling in a City. Discuss Both Views and Give Your Opinion: IELTS Writing Task 2 ’ helped you learn something new. If you are planning to study abroad, preparing for the IELTS exam is a key step in your journey. For expert guidance, call us at 1800 572 000.
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