TASK 2:
ESSAY INFORMATION:
Written by: IELTS I-Ready, 9/6/2024
Marked by: Ex-BC Examiner
(IELTS Academic – 8/6/2024)
Question: Some people think that living in big cities is bad for people’s health. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
ANSWER:
It is believed that adverse health effects are the consequences of metropolitan life. I predominantly advocate this notion due to the polluted surroundings and the disregard of work life balance among dwellers in major cities, despite the availability of their high standard healthcare.
The primary driver that debilitates people’s well-being in major urban centers is the heightened environmental degradation. Indeed, the substantial exhaust fumes from heavy traffic and the heat discharged by machinery in densely packed buildings, such as air conditioners, have contaminated the environment for city dwellers, exposing them to a hazardous atmosphere. This is further amplified by the fast pace of urbanization that is encroaching on ecological areas which limit opportunities for green spaces to naturally clear the air.
Another pivotal contributor to the adverse welfare of city residents is the likelihood of an unhealthy lifestyle entailed by the competitive nature of city life. Urban settings with superior yet finite opportunities force individuals to exert excessive effort to secure their prospects against a vast pool of contenders. Consequently, individuals may overlook other essential sources of happiness including entertainment and relationships while navigating this competitive terrain, ultimately leading to negative mental wellness.
Admittedly, metropolises confer their residents with rapid access to high standard medical facilities. Particularly, the abundant economic resources of large cities and the greater demand for healthcare services in these regions attract more experts and investment in healthcare infrastructure, leading to superior quality of medical care. For instance, patients of serious illnesses in Vietnam must travel to major cities such as Hanoi, where the most renowned hospitals are located.
In conclusion, while acknowledging the high quality of healthcare services in metropolitan areas, I mostly agree that the deteriorated environment and hectic dynamics of major city life pose detriments to residents’ well-being. It is essential that policymakers focus on implementing measures to reduce pollution and promote a healthy lifestyle among urban residents, as well as improving quality of healthcare services in rural areas, to enhance the well-being of the populace regardless of their geographic location.
(320 words)
Highlight Vocabulary:
| English | Vietnamese |
| Metropolitan life | Cuộc sống đô thị |
| Dwellers | Cư dân |
| Debilitates | Làm suy yếu |
| Degradation | Sự suy thoái |
| Contaminated | Bị ô nhiễm |
| Encroaching | Xâm lấn |
| Contenders | Đối thủ cạnh tranh |
| Hectic | Hối hả |
