Academic Writing - Model Answer (Task 2)

Motorways help people travel quickly and cover long distances but they also cause problems. What are the problems of motorways and what solutions are there?

Motorways are arteries between cities and countries and help transport people and products from one location to another. They enable vehicles to cover vast distances, are a convenient way to travel and are a fast means of reaching your destination.

Despite the fact that motorways consist of several lanes, sometimes traffic can be formed, especially when many inhabitants leave the city to go on holiday. Dependence on this method of movement means that routes are often congested. Drivers may also be inconvenienced by an accident on the motorway or when it is closed for repairs causing delays and frustration.

On the downside, motorways are difficult and expensive to maintain. Roads need to be re-surfaced and repaired on a regular basis. This maintenance is paid by the tax payer’s money. Similarly, tolls are placed at regular intervals and drivers are obliged to pay for the use of roads. The building of new roads involves destroying the countryside. Farm animals are subjected to noise pollution and carbon dioxide emissions are high in these areas.

As a solution the government could encourage people to restrict their movement and promote local areas for holidays. If tolls are expensive, people will think twice about using their private vehicles and will opt to use a bus instead. Alternatively, a train can be used.

Compared to air travel this type of transportation is less damaging to the environment but nonetheless it is still harmful. People need to consider their impact on the environment before venturing out.

Question taken from Get Ready for IELTS Writing p.85