IELTS Task 2: The Urban Wealth Gap
The Question
In many large cities, the gap between the rich and the poor is becoming wider. What problems does this cause, and what measures can be taken to address them? Write at least 250 words.
How to approach it
- •Problems: social tension and crime, unequal access to education and healthcare, segregation, reduced social mobility
- •Solutions: progressive taxation, affordable housing, investment in public services and education, minimum wage policy
- •Note the question asks for PROBLEMS and MEASURES (not causes) — structure accordingly
- •Keep solutions realistic and clearly linked to the problems identified
Sample Band 8 Response
208 wordsWritten by EduForEveryone — for guidance only. Not an official examiner response.
In many large cities, the divide between rich and poor is growing ever wider. This essay will examine the problems this creates and suggest measures that could help to address them.
A widening wealth gap causes a range of serious problems. It often leads to social tension and higher crime rates, as those who feel excluded from prosperity grow resentful. It also produces unequal access to essential services: wealthy residents enjoy good schools and healthcare, while poorer communities are left behind, entrenching disadvantage across generations and reducing social mobility. Cities can even become physically segregated, with affluent and deprived districts existing side by side.
Several measures could narrow the gap. Governments can adopt progressive taxation, using revenue from the wealthy to fund services for the poor. Investing in affordable housing and high-quality public education gives disadvantaged residents a genuine chance to improve their circumstances. A fair minimum wage and support for small businesses can also help low earners share more fully in a city's economic success.
In conclusion, the growing gap between rich and poor in cities threatens social stability and fairness. Through progressive taxation, investment in public services, and policies that raise low incomes, however, governments can do much to create more balanced and cohesive urban societies.