IELTS urban life
essay questions.

“In many countries around the world, rural people are moving to cities, so the population in the countryside is decreasing. Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?”

“A letter to the editor of a local newspaper about cycling lanes”

“A letter asking a friend to help you move to your new flat”

“A letter asking your neighbour to look after your flat while you are away”

“Some argue cities should be designed for pedestrians, not cars. To what extent do you agree?”

“Many cities are growing so large that they face serious infrastructure problems. What are the main causes, and what can be done?”

“High-rise buildings are the only practical solution to urban housing shortages. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some argue that cities need more parks and green spaces, even if that means less housing. Do you agree or disagree?”

“City centres are unaffordable. The only fair fix is to limit luxury housing. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some cities are encouraging more 24-hour businesses and activities. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some say historic buildings should be preserved at all costs; others argue cities need modern development. Discuss both views.”

“Some cities are turning their centres into pedestrian-only zones. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Many city governments are spending more on public transport and less on roads. Is this a positive or negative trend?”

“More young people are moving to cities, leaving rural areas with ageing populations. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“In some countries, owning a home rather than renting one is very important for people. Why might this be the case? Do you think this is a positive or negative situation?”

“The maps show two possible sites for a new supermarket in a town.”

“The maps show the centre of the town of Halton in 2000 and today.”

“The table shows the five most populous urban areas in the world and their annual growth rate in 2020.”

“The maps show the village of Stokeford in 1930 and today.”

“The table shows the share of daily commutes by mode of transport in three cities in 2020.”

“The line graph shows the percentage of population living in urban areas in four countries from 1990 to 2020.”

“The bar chart shows the percentage of population living in urban areas in six countries in 2010 and 2020.”