Plan this two-part essay about cities 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:
In big cities, many people do not know their neighbours and feel little connection to the local community.
Why do you think this is the case? What can be done to build stronger communities?
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.
In large cities, many people do not know their neighbours and feel little connection to their community. This essay will suggest why this has happened and how stronger communities could be built.
Several factors explain the situation. City life is fast and mobile, and residents often live in rented flats for only a year or two, so there is little incentive to form lasting relationships. Long working hours and commutes leave little time or energy for socialising, and people arriving home in the evening usually prefer to rest. The design of buildings also matters: in large apartment blocks, residents pass each other in corridors and lifts without ever speaking, and there are few shared spaces where conversation might start. Technology adds to the problem, since people can now shop, work and entertain themselves online, and they maintain friendships by phone with people far away rather than with those next door.
There are practical ways to rebuild community spirit. Local authorities can create places and occasions for contact, such as community gardens, parks with seating and street festivals. Architects can design housing with shared courtyards or rooftop gardens that encourage residents to meet. Neighbourhood organisations and volunteering projects, such as food banks or clean-up days, give people a common purpose. Individuals can contribute as well, by greeting neighbours, joining local groups and using local shops rather than distant ones. Some cities have launched apps and events that let residents exchange tools or help elderly neighbours with shopping, and these small acts often develop into genuine friendships.
In conclusion, mobility, busy schedules, building design and technology weaken ties in cities. Shared spaces, local events and individual effort can gradually restore a sense of community.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| sense of community | feeling of belonging |
| anonymity | not being known |
| neighbourhood | local area |
| community centre | place for local activities |
| social cohesion | unity in society |
| civic engagement | taking part in local life |
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