TASK 1: The graph below gives information about the number of jobs in four sectors of the economy in the US between 1960 and 2020. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
TASK 2: The best way to provide enough homes in large cities is to build tall apartment blocks. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
TASK 2 BAND 7 ANSWER: Firstly, tall apartment blocks economize land area since it makes use of its vertical space compared to multiple residential areas which waste a major portion of area, multiple apartments can squeeze in more homes at each floor. Besides, heavily populated cities are rife with locals and expatriates seeking a place to live in a while they go about their business there. By utilising the apartment’s geometrical structure, more homes can be provided for them at a cheaper cost.
Moreover, apartment blocks usually offer homes at a price lower than the ones set for onland homes. Bungalows, semi-detached, double story houses and others would usually be a pain in the wallet for someone without a stable or sufficient income, much like those who are new to the city. By building more apartments, more affordable housing can be accessed by many layers of the society. To paint a picture, we can visualize an example of a rookie worker at a major firm in a big city like Kuala Lumpur. He or she might not be planning to permanently reside there and raise a family but they definitely have the option of a stable house to return to at the end of a day’s work. For families, they definitely can benefit the most as they do not have to pay a throat-choking price while still juggling the cost of raising children and dealing with bills and taxes.
In conclusion, governments should implement an urban-planning scheme which involve building more tall apartment blocks in large cities. In doing so, the percentage of homelessness may decrease largely. Not only that, the productivity of the city will improve and boost the country’s overall economy. Homes are crucial for a harmonious and safe community as well as healing one’s mental health. Although there may be other mechanisms in place to achieve this common goal, I still stand firm with my reasons.