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CELPIP Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions

CELPIP Writing Task 2 Sample Answer: City Traffic Improvement Survey

By Rita

Traffic congestion has become a major issue in your city, causing long commutes and increased pollution. City officials are considering two possible solutions: expanding roads to accommodate more vehicles or improving…

Time
26 minutes
Length
150–200 words
Structure
Choose Option A or B and support it

The question

Traffic congestion has become a major issue in your city, causing long commutes and increased pollution. City officials are considering two possible solutions: expanding roads to accommodate more vehicles or improving public transportation options. Since budget limitations prevent both projects from happening at once, officials are seeking resident input.

Which option do you prefer? Why?

-Option A: Expand roads to reduce traffic congestion and make driving easier.

-Option B: Improve public transportation to encourage people to take buses and trains instead of driving.

Excellent answer: around CLB 11–12

I strongly advocate for Option B, as enhancing public transportation offers a forward-thinking and sustainable solution to traffic congestion. While expanding roads might seem appealing, research consistently shows that increased road capacity attracts more drivers, negating any relief and exacerbating congestion over time. In contrast, a robust public transit system reduces car dependency, cuts greenhouse gas emissions, and enhances urban mobility for all residents. Moreover, this option serves a broader population, including low-income individuals who rely on affordable alternatives to private vehicles. By investing in efficient, accessible, and eco-friendly transportation, the city can foster a healthier, more equitable urban environment for the long term.

104 words

Good answer: around CLB 7–8

I support Option B because improving public transportation offers a sustainable solution to traffic congestion. Firstly, better bus and train services would encourage people to leave their cars at home. This would lower the number of vehicles on the road and shorten commute times for all residents. Secondly, public transportation is better for the environment. Cars create a lot of pollution, while buses and trains carry more people and produce fewer emissions overall. Although expanding roads might ease traffic for a short time, it’s not a lasting fix. Improving public transit is a smarter choice for the city’s future.

99 words

Basic answer: around CLB 4–5

I prefer Option B because better public transportation helps everyone. If buses and trains are faster and more reliable, more people will choose them instead of driving. This will reduce traffic on the roads. Also, public transport costs less than owning a car. Many people in the city cannot buy cars, so they need good buses and trains to get around. Expanding roads is not a great idea because more cars will still cause traffic jams. Improving public transportation is a smarter choice for more people.

86 words

The CLBs are estimates of the level each sample was written at, not official CELPIP scores. How we estimate CLB

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