Task 2 · · 18 samples

Governments should spend money on railways rather than roads. To what extend do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Practise this task →

Plan your answer

Try your own response before reading the samples.

Ideas to explore

  • Explain how carrying many passengers in one train can reduce emissions per traveller compared with relying on individual cars.
  • Connect reliable rail services with fewer commuter car journeys, reduced congestion and improved urban air quality.
  • Acknowledge that roads provide direct access to rural areas and destinations not served by rail, so prioritising rail does not require neglecting roads.

Suggested structure

  1. Introduce the funding comparison and state clearly whether you agree.
  2. Develop the environmental argument with a cause-and-effect explanation.
  3. Add a separate argument about rail capacity, connectivity or business travel.
  4. Concede the continuing value of roads and clarify that they still require essential funding.
  5. Conclude by restating the priority and describing a balanced approach.
Useful vocabulary & examples
railway investment
Government spending on rail infrastructure or services.

Railway investment can improve the reliability of services between major towns.

well-connected services
Transport services that link effectively with other routes or places.

Well-connected services can make rail a more practical option for commuters.

road congestion
Heavy traffic that slows movement on roads.

Reliable trains may help reduce road congestion during busy commuting periods.

rural access
The ability of people in countryside communities to reach services and destinations.

Road funding remains important for rural access where railway routes are limited.

Sample answers

AI-completed learning example

362 words · Illustrative target band

The allocation of governmental funds towards developing transportation infrastructure is a subject that sparks considerable debate, with persuasive arguments put forth from different perspectives. This essay will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of giving priority to railway investments over road infrastructure. From an environmental standpoint, railways present a more sustainable mode of transport when th…

Read full answer & analysis →

AI-completed learning example

358 words · Illustrative target band

Governments face the decision of allocating funds to either railways or roads, both of which are essential to the infrastructure of a nation. While some governments prioritize investment in highways, I advocate for the allocation of funds towards railways over roads. It is undeniable that directing funds to railways, rather than roads, can yield substantial benefits on suitable routes. Railways can be useful for mov…

Read full answer & analysis →

AI-completed learning example

360 words · Illustrative target band

Railways serve as a primary mode of transportation for the movement of people and goods in contemporary society. It is argued that governmental investments should prioritize the development of railways over roads. I am inclined to concur with this assertion due to the multitude of benefits associated with the expansion of railway infrastructure. Primarily, railways can provide a useful shared alternative. Railways c…

Read full answer & analysis →