Many Old Cities Around the World are Going Through a Major Process of Modernization – IELTS Writing Task 2

Nehasri Ravishenbagam

7 min read

Updated On Dec 23, 2023

Question

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The essay “Many Old Cities Around the World Are Going Through a Major Process of Modernization” is an Advantages/Disadvantages writing task 2 question that has previously appeared in an IELTS test. The essay writing section of the IELTS Writing Module can be a difficult task for many IELTS aspirants. Thus, it is vital that you polish your essay writing skills before attempting the IELTS.

IELTS Writing Task 2 for advantages/disadvantages essays requires you to discuss the pros and cons of a given topic. You will be asked to provide a clear thesis, supporting arguments, and examples in a well-structured essay. Balancing advantages and disadvantages while maintaining coherence and clarity is essential for success in this task.

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Here, you get access to 3 IELTS writing task 2 advantages/disadvantages sample answers ranging from band 7-9 along with their vocabulary highlighted. So, why wait? Start reading the blog!

Question

Many old cities around the world are going through a major process of modernisation. What are the advantages and disadvantages of modernisation?
You should write at least 250 words.

Learn some more ways to Achieve a band score of 8 for Writing Task 2 and check out the IELTS essay for ‘Many Old Cities Around the World Are Going Through a Major Process of Modernization’ given below.

Structure Breakdown

Essay Type
Advantages/Disadvantages essayIntroduction
Paraphrase the question
State the outline

Main Body Paragraph 1
Present the advantages/positives and expand the idea with an example.

Main Body Paragraph 2
Present the disadvantages/negatives and expand the idea with an example.

Conclusion
Summarise your opinion and the key features

Band 7 Sample Answer For Many Old Cities Around the World Are Going Through a Major Process of Modernization Writing Task 2

Many ancient cities globally are undergoing modernization, with both positive and negative outcomes. This essay will explore the economic benefits and improved infrastructure resulting from this process, as well as the potential disadvantages related to cultural heritage and environmental sustainability.

From an economic perspective, developing historic urban areas can bring about prosperity. London’s Docklands, for instance, turned into a bustling financial district, creating jobs and significantly contributing to the city’s economy. In addition to the economic benefits and enhanced infrastructure, modernization also improves social progress. Moreover, upgraded educational facilities and healthcare services often accompany urban development, leading to an improved quality of life.

However, the rapid modernization of cities can also harm the cultural heritage. Beijing’s swift urban development, for example, has led to the demolition of traditional hutongs, and historical cultural landscapes and potentially erasing the city’s unique identity. Adding on to this, environmental sustainability also becomes a pressing concern, and pollution would without doubt skyrocket and result in habitat loss as well.

In conclusion, while modernization brings economic growth and technological advancements, preserving cultural heritage and ensuring environmental sustainability are crucial for the long-term well-being of historic cities.

Vocabulary

Bustling

Meaning: Full of energetic and lively activity.

Example: The marketplace was bustling with shoppers and vendors during the festival.

Catalyst

Meaning: Something that causes a change or speeds up a process.

Example: The new highway acted as a catalyst for economic development in the region.

Streamlined

Meaning: Made more efficient and effective by removing unnecessary elements.

Example: The company implemented streamlined processes, resulting in faster production.

Sustainable

Meaning: Capable of being maintained over the long term without harming the environment.

Example: The community implemented sustainable practices, such as recycling and using renewable energy sources, to protect the environment.

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Band 8 Sample Answer For Many Old Cities Around the World Are Going Through a Major Process of Modernization Writing Task 2

In contemporary times, many historic cities worldwide are experiencing a profound transformation characterized by extensive modernization efforts. This essay will delve into both the advantages and disadvantages of this with appropriate examples.

Regarding the benefits, the upgrading of infrastructure has proven beneficial since the improved roads and public transport not only facilitate smoother daily life but also act as catalysts for economic advancement. Moreover, modern amenities such as healthcare facilities and educational institutions elevate the overall standard of living.

On the flip side, one notable disadvantage is the potential erosion of historical buildings. As cities evolve to accommodate contemporary needs, there’s a risk of losing the unique charm that historical architecture and cultural heritage provide. This often sparks debates on striking a balance between progress and preservation. One other drawback lies in the displacement of established communities. Rapid urban development may force long-standing residents out of their homes due to rising costs or demolition projects.

In conclusion, while modernization brings forth advantages like improved infrastructure and enhanced living standards, it also poses challenges, such as the potential loss of historical identity and community displacement. Hence, following a careful balance through comprehensive planning is crucial for sustainable development in these old cities.

Vocabulary

Profound

Meaning: deep or significant.

Example: The changes brought about by modernization have a profound impact on the character of historic cities.

Catalysts

Meaning: something that stimulates or accelerates a process.

Example: Upgraded infrastructure acts as a catalyst for economic growth by improving connectivity and accessibility.

Amenities

Meaning: desirable or useful features or facilities.

Example: The introduction of modern amenities such as healthcare facilities enhances the overall quality of life for city residents.

Erosion

Meaning: the gradual destruction or loss of something.

Example: The rapid modernization of old cities raises concerns about the erosion of their historical character.

Contemporary

Meaning: belonging to the present time.

Example: Many historic cities are undergoing contemporary changes to adapt to the needs of the current generation.

Comprehensive

Meaning: including or dealing with all elements or aspects.

Example: Comprehensive planning is essential to address the challenges posed by modernization in historic cities.

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Band 9 Sample Answer For Many Old Cities Around the World Are Going Through a Major Process of Modernization Writing Task 2

Unlock Band 9 Sample Answer and Vocabulary!

Due to urbanization, ancient cities are becoming modern ones in this fast-paced world. This essay aims to explore this transformation’s positive and negative aspects with suitable examples.

Modernising historic cities has several benefits. To start with, compared to small towns and villages, individuals in developing cities have easier access to everything, including better healthcare, education, and even transportation. The capital city of Delhi, for instance, has outstanding metro facilities and people usually take the metro as it’s quick, safe, and convenient for longer trips. Adding on to this, individuals in modern cities get to place their hands on cutting-edge building techniques and get better houses to live in along with a greater standard of living. Moreover, with such improvements in the infrastructure of buildings, many industries are setting up their business. Consequently, job opportunities are increasing as well.

However, there is a flip side to modern city life as well. To begin with, the massive growing number of cars on the road and development projects are to blame for environmental pollution. For example, numerous residents suffer from chronic respiratory conditions like asthma as a result of this. Moreover, the fact that living costs are soaring in today’s cities is another evident cause for concern. Due to this, there are becoming more and more homeless people, as is often the case in developed cities like Delhi and Mumbai, to mention

To conclude, modernization is good for any city that is ready to offer its people a good quality of life. Though it comes with a set of drawbacks, its motive is any way to offer citizens an easy and hassle-free life.

Vocabulary

Urbanization

Meaning: The process of making an area more urban, typically characterized by increased population density and infrastructure development.

Example: The rapid urbanization of the small town led to the construction of skyscrapers and improved transportation networks.

Cutting-edge

Meaning: Using the latest and most advanced techniques or technology.

Example: The architect designed a cutting-edge building with sustainable features and smart technology.

Chronic

Meaning: Persisting over a long period of time or recurring frequently.

Example: The factory’s emissions caused chronic air pollution, affecting the health of the nearby residents.

Soaring

Meaning: Rapidly increasing to a high level.

Example: The soaring prices of real estate in the city made it difficult for many people to afford homes.

Standard of living

Meaning: The level of comfort, wealth, and material goods available to a person or community.

Example: The infrastructure improvement contributed to a higher standard of living for the residents of the city.

Hassle-free

Meaning: Without difficulty or inconvenience.

Example: The new online payment system made transactions hassle-free for the city’s residents.

Motive

Meaning: The reason or goal behind a particular action.

Example: The government’s motive for investing in green energy projects was to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.

Connectors Used in the Above Sample Answers

Connectors, also known as connectives or transition words, are words or phrases that link ideas or parts of a sentence or paragraph together. Here are some of the connectors used in the above sample answers:

To start with
To begin with
Due to this
As a result
On flip side
For example
For instance
Moreover
In conclusion
To conclude

Remember to proofread your essay for grammar, vocabulary, and spelling errors. These tips, combined with practice, will help you write well-structured and coherent IELTS Writing Task 2 Advantages/Disadvantages essays like the ‘Many Old Cities Around the World Are Going Through a Major Process of Modernization IELTS Writing Task 2.’