Overpopulation | Writing for Academic IELTS PDF Download

This model essay is about overpopulation in cities. You specifically have to talk about the problems of overpopulation, and suggest some solutions to this problem.
Note that this question specifically asks you what governments and individuals can do.

Here is the question:
Q. Overpopulation of urban areas has led to numerous problems. Identify one or two serious ones and suggest ways that governments and individuals can tackle these problems.

Hint:

• Note that this question specifically asks you what governments and individuals can do.
• You MUST, therefore, write about what both of these can do in order to fully answer the question.
• Note as well that you must talk about serious problems.
• The easiest way to organize a problems and solutions essay is as follows:
  • Body 1: Problems
  • Body 2: Solutions
• In this essay, a separate paragraph has been written about government and individual solutions, so it is organized as follows:
  • Body 1: Problems
  • Body 2: Solutions - Government
  • Body 3: Solutions - Individuals

Sample Answer

• Many countries of the world are currently experiencing problems caused by rapidly growing populations in urban areas, and both governments and individuals have a duty to find ways to overcome these problems.
• Overpopulation can lead to overcrowding and poor quality housing in many large cities. Poorly heated or damp housing could cause significant health problems, resulting in illness, such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Another serious consequence of overcrowding is a rising crime rate as poor living conditions may lead young people in particular to take desperate measures and turn to crime or drugs.
• In terms of solutions, I believe the government should be largely responsible. Firstly, it is vital that the state provides essential housing and healthcare for all its citizens. Secondly, setting up community projects to help foster more community spirit and help keep young people off the street is a good idea. For example, youth clubs or evening classes for teenagers would keep them occupied. Finally, more effective policing of inner city areas would also be beneficial.
• Naturally, individuals should also try to address these problems. One way is to put pressure on the government to ensure they tackle the problems by, for instance, forming action groups to lobby the government and request intervention and adequate funding. They could also form Neighbourhood Watch areas to try and help reduce the high levels of crime.
• Therefore, it is clear that the problems caused by overpopulation in urban areas are very serious. Yet if governments and individuals share a collective responsibility, then it may well become possible to offer some solutions.