IELTS.international
Opinionacademic·2023

Traffic and housing problems in major cities could be solved by moving large companies and factories and their employees to the countryside. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Write **at least 250 words**. Spend ~40 minutes. This is a real IELTS exam-style question.

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Step 1

IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic

1

When tackling a 'to what extent' question, it is crucial to state a clear position in your introduction, indicating whether you largely agree or disagree. For instance, you could open with, 'While the notion of decentralising urban employment holds some theoretical appeal, I largely disagree that it offers a practical or comprehensive solution to major city problems.' Maintain this stance throughout your body paragraphs, using a concession paragraph (e.g., 'It is true that...') to acknowledge the opposing view briefly before immediately refuting it or highlighting its limitations, thereby reinforcing your primary argument.

2

Consider arguing against the feasibility and effectiveness of such a grand-scale relocation. You could highlight the immense logistical and financial burden of building entirely new infrastructure (housing, schools, hospitals, transport networks) in rural areas, potentially leading to 'greenfield' development issues. Furthermore, question the assumption that *all* employees would willingly move, leading to potential talent drain for companies or increased long-distance commuting, thereby shifting rather than solving traffic problems.

3

The most common mistake students make on this question is spending too much time describing the existing problems of traffic and housing in cities, rather than critically evaluating the *proposed solution*. Avoid simply reiterating how bad urban congestion is; instead, focus your analysis on *why* moving companies to the countryside is or isn't a viable, sustainable, or comprehensive answer to these issues, considering its practical, economic, and social implications.

4

For an opinion essay, employ a linking strategy that clearly signposts your arguments, counter-arguments, and refutations. Use phrases like 'Initially, this proposal might seem attractive; however, a closer examination reveals...', 'Furthermore, the logistical hurdles involved are immense...', 'While proponents might argue that..., this perspective overlooks the fact that...', and 'Consequently, it is evident that...' to guide the reader through your line of reasoning and reinforce your overall stance.

5

Examiners look for a nuanced and well-supported argument that critically assesses the practicality and long-term implications of the proposed solution, rather than offering a simplistic 'yes' or 'no'. A band 8-9 answer will demonstrate sophisticated vocabulary related to urban planning, economics, and social impact, alongside complex sentence structures that effectively convey concession, refutation, and logical consequence. Cohesion and coherence will be seamless, with each paragraph building logically on the last to present a compelling and well-rounded perspective.

Step 2

Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)

1
Introduction

Hook the examiner and establish your position immediately.

  • Rephrase the question using powerful synonyms — avoid copying words
  • State your opinion clearly in the final sentence — leave no doubt
  • Keep it tight: 2-3 sentences max. Every word must earn its place.

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

It is often argued that...There is a growing debate about whether...In my view, ... because ...
2
Body Paragraph 1 — Your Strongest Argument

Make your most compelling case with undeniable evidence.

  • Start with a powerful topic sentence — state your argument boldly
  • Support with concrete evidence: statistics, real-world cases, or expert research
  • Explain exactly HOW your evidence proves your point — connect the dots for the examiner

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

The primary reason I hold this view is that...This is clearly illustrated by...For instance, in many countries...
3
Body Paragraph 2 — Supporting Argument

Strengthen your position with a complementary perspective.

  • Choose a different angle — if paragraph 1 was economic, try social, environmental, or ethical
  • Use fresh evidence — avoid repeating the same examples or reasoning
  • Explicitly link back to your thesis — show how this strengthens your overall position

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

Furthermore, it is worth considering that...Another compelling argument is that...This is further supported by the fact that...
4
Conclusion

Leave a lasting impression with a confident, memorable ending.

  • Never introduce new ideas — this is your final summary
  • Restate your position using stronger vocabulary than the introduction
  • Keep it powerful: 2 sentences max. End with authority.

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

In conclusion, I firmly believe that...To sum up, the evidence clearly suggests that...

Step 3

High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations

urban sprawlThe uncontrolled expansion of urban areas, often leading to low-density development and increased reliance on cars.
decentralisationThe process of distributing functions, powers, people, or things away from a central location or authority.
infrastructure burdenThe strain or pressure placed on public facilities and services such as roads, utilities, and public transport.
it is widely acknowledged thatA phrase used to introduce a generally accepted fact or belief.
a compelling argument can be madeA phrase used to introduce a strong and persuasive reason or point.
this notion is predicated onThis idea or concept is based on a fundamental assumption or principle.
from my perspectiveA phrase used to introduce one's personal opinion or viewpoint.
the evidence overwhelmingly suggestsA phrase indicating that there is a strong body of information supporting a particular conclusion.
notwithstandingDespite; in spite of.
it could be argued thatA phrase used to introduce a possible viewpoint or contention, often to acknowledge an opposing side.

Step 4

Academic Phrases for This Essay Type

It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignore

Addition

MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is more

Contrast

HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConversely

Cause / Effect

ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads to

Example

For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch as

Concession

AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedly

Step 5

Grammar Patterns for Band 7+

Complex sentence with concession

Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.

Shows advanced grammatical control. Start with 'Although/While' + opposing view, then state your position — demonstrates nuanced thinking.

Conditional (Type 2)

If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.

Perfect for hypothetical scenarios and solutions. Structure: 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' — shows flexibility and imagination.

Passive for academic tone

It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.

Academic writing favors passive constructions. 'It is + past participle + that' creates authoritative, objective tone.

Relative clause

Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.

Adds sophistication without complexity. Use 'who' for people, 'which' for things, 'that' for either.

Noun phrase for density

The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.

Packs more information into fewer words. 'The implementation of effective policies' vs 'policies are implemented effectively' — boosts Lexical Resource score.

Step 6

Band 9 Model Answer (Fully Marked)

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