Plan this opinion essay about transport with the ideas and outline below, write it on a 40-minute timer, then compare it with a band-8 model answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Public transport systems, such as trains and buses, should be run by computers rather than human drivers.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
GoPrep wrote this practice question in the style of the exam. It is not an official IELTS question.
Pick two or three points from one or both columns. You do not need all of them, and your own examples score better than memorised ones.
Spend the first few minutes planning, then write.
0 words of 250 minimum
Your answer stays on this page only. Copy it before you leave.
Write your own answer first, then compare: how it answers the exact question, what each paragraph does, and which phrases you could borrow.
Some people suggest that public transport such as trains and buses should be run by computers instead of human drivers. I partly agree: automation is suitable for some systems, but I do not think human staff should be removed entirely.
The advantages are significant. Computers do not become tired, distracted or ill, so automated systems can improve safety, as most accidents are caused by human error. They can also run vehicles closer together and more smoothly, which allows more frequent services, saves energy and reduces delays. Automation is already successful on metro lines such as the Copenhagen Metro and several lines in Singapore and Paris, which operate reliably without drivers. In the long term, operating costs would fall because wages are a large part of transport budgets, and savings could be used to improve services or reduce fares.
Nevertheless, there are real concerns. Passengers, particularly women and elderly people, may feel less secure without a visible member of staff who can help in an emergency, deal with aggressive behaviour or assist disabled travellers. Software failures or cyber attacks could stop an entire network, which could be more disruptive than the absence of one driver. Public trust also matters: many people would feel uneasy on a bus with nobody in control. Finally, thousands of drivers could lose their livelihoods, which would require retraining and support.
A sensible compromise is to automate controlled environments such as metro lines, while keeping trained staff on board to assist passengers and respond to emergencies. Buses in open traffic, with unpredictable conditions, should keep human drivers for now.
In conclusion, computer-controlled transport offers safety and efficiency, but because of security, trust and employment concerns, I believe human staff will still be needed.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| autonomous vehicle | self-driving vehicle |
| human error | mistake made by people |
| system failure | breakdown of a system |
| public confidence | trust of the public |
| job losses | people losing work |
| punctuality | arriving on time |
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