Writing Task 2 Model Answers
WRITING
5. Driving & Traffic
Some people believe that governments should invest more in trains, while others argue that it is more important to improve the roads.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Essay Plan:
Opinion: Governments should invest more in trains.
Main Idea 1: Road transport is more convenient and flexible.
Sub-idea A: Can travel directly from home, avoid bad weather.
Sub-idea B: Travelling by car is flexible - reach any destination with less planning.
Main Idea 2: Trains are safer for passengers and the environment.
Sub-idea A: Trains are involved in far fewer accidents and deaths.
Sub-idea B: They are more efficient, creating less pollution.
Model Answer:
It is believed by some people that more should be invested in railways, while others claim that improvements to the road system should be prioritised. I believe that although travelling by car is often more convenient and offers greater flexibility, overall trains are preferable as they are safer for both passengers and the environment.
Travelling by car is often the most convenient way to get to your destination. Although there’s the risk of getting stuck in traffic, especially during rush hour, it is not necessary to deal with bad weather as you walk to a train station, or to connect with other forms of transport such as the underground or buses. In addition, roads give more direct and flexible access to a destination, allowing a range of passenger and commercial vehicles to travel door to door, at their own convenience, without the need for planning departure and arrival times so precisely. However, travelling by car is usually worse for the environment than travelling by train and is far more dangerous.
Compared to travelling on the roads, train travel is safer for both passengers and the environment. Due to reckless driving, unroadworthy vehicles and the effects of drink and drugs, cars and trucks are frequently involved in collisions, pile-ups and other less serious accidents. In addition, private vehicle drivers often break the rules of the road, doing things such as jumping red lights and speeding, all of which contribute to a higher risk of accidents. In contrast, trains are driven by professional drivers, who must strictly follow the rules of safety. Furthermore, train travel allows many people to travel at the same time in the same vehicle and therefore reduces congestion and demands less energy per person for each journey. This efficiency means that train travel does not produce the same level of exhaust emissions and is therefore more friendly to the environment than car travel.
In conclusion, while travelling by car may be more convenient for people to use, governments should focus on investing state funds in trains so as to make them the preferred means of transport for more people. By doing this, the government will be able to reduce pollution, and prevent a large number of deaths and injuries.
*To see definitions and examples of the vocabulary in bold, along with practice exercises, go to Topic Vocabulary & Exercises.