IELTS Writing Task 2 · Discussion (both views and your opinion) · General Training

House or Apartment Living: Discuss Both Views

The question

Some people prefer to live in a house, while others prefer an apartment. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

About 40 minutes. Write at least 250 words.

Plan before you write

Position:
While houses offer privacy and autonomy, apartments provide convenience and security, and I believe the choice depends on individual lifestyle requirements.
Paragraph 2:
Living in a detached house grants residents greater independence and space, which is ideal for families.
Paragraph 3:
Apartment living is often more practical for urban dwellers due to proximity to amenities and enhanced security features.
  1. Give each view its own paragraph, explained fairly even where you disagree.
  2. Say where you stand in the introduction and again in the conclusion; the question asks for your opinion.
  3. Do not merge the two views into one paragraph; examiners look for both to be developed.

Band 8 sample essay

Residential preferences are divided between those who favour the independence of a house and those who prioritise the convenience of an apartment. Both options offer distinct advantages, and I believe the suitability of each depends largely on a person's stage of life and personal requirements.

Those who choose to reside in a detached house often value the autonomy and privacy that such properties provide. Having a private garden and no shared walls allows homeowners to modify their living space and enjoy a quieter environment, which is particularly beneficial for families with children. For instance, a family in a suburban area can utilise their own outdoor space for recreation without the constraints imposed by communal building regulations. This sense of ownership and personal freedom remains a primary driver for people seeking a permanent, long-term residence.

Conversely, many individuals, particularly young professionals and city dwellers, opt for apartments due to the inherent convenience and security they offer. Modern apartment complexes are frequently situated in central locations, reducing commuting times and providing immediate access to public transport, shops, and workplaces. Furthermore, these buildings often include security services and maintenance staff, which simplifies property management. For example, a busy professional living in a high-rise city centre apartment benefits from proximity to their office and the peace of mind provided by 24-hour concierge services, avoiding the burden of external maintenance.

In summary, houses and apartments cater to different needs and priorities. While the privacy and space of a house suit those seeking a long-term family home, the accessibility and ease of apartment life are perfect for those prioritising efficiency. Ultimately, the ideal choice is determined by whether an individual values personal autonomy or urban convenience most highly.

282 words. Use the structure and the vocabulary, not the sentences.

Why this scores Band 8

The essay achieves Band 8 by addressing both perspectives with clear, logical arguments and specific examples while maintaining a consistent opinion. A Band 6 response often fails to provide a clear position or relies on repetitive, simplistic language without fully exploring the implications of each housing type.

Vocabulary from the essay

detached
a building that is not joined to others
autonomy
the right or condition of self-government or freedom
communal
shared by all members of a specific community
inherent
existing in something as a permanent essential attribute
concierge
an employee who assists residents with various tasks
proximity
nearness in space, time, or relationship
residents
people who live somewhere on a permanent basis
constraints
limitations or restrictions placed upon an individual

Write this one yourself and get a band

Forty minutes, then a band for task response, coherence, vocabulary and grammar, with the sentences that cost you marked.

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Frequently asked questions

What type of essay is "House or Apartment Living: Discuss Both Views"?

Discussion (both views and your opinion). Give each view its own paragraph, explained fairly even where you disagree.

How long should the answer be?

At least 250 words. This sample is 282 words, written to fit 40 minutes with five minutes left to check grammar.

What is the difference between a Band 6 and a Band 8 answer here?

The essay achieves Band 8 by addressing both perspectives with clear, logical arguments and specific examples while maintaining a consistent opinion. A Band 6 response often fails to provide a clear position or relies on repetitive, simplistic language without fully exploring the implications of each housing type.

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