Some people think the newly built houses should be the same as the old housing styles in local areas. Others argue that local authorities should allow people to build houses in their own style. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

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Sample Response

1

Many feel it is crucial that home owners possess the freedom to design their own houses, while others believe that architectural design should be restricted. In my opinion, the value of preserving the character of local areas outweighs the right of property owners.

2

Proponents of creative freedom argue that such autonomy can inspire and motivate homeowners. When an owner has the ability to express an individual vision, they are naturally more invested in improving their property. Numerous examples of this can be found in newer cities such as Shenzhen in mainland China. Owing to the lack ofOwing to little architectural heritage, architects are encouraged to work with owners to pursue aesthetically pleasing,pursue an aesthetic and cutting-edge design. The result is modern buildings and offices that push the boundaries of design and collectivelypush the boundaries of design, and collectively contribute energy and vitality that can enliven or even revitalise local areas.

3

However, in the majority of communities, it is more important to prioritize cultural preservation. This is because the unique character of many cities and neighbourhoods is currently under threat from the irreversible effects of globalisation. A clear example is Tokyo in Japan. The government has imposed strict regulations in recent years as a growing middle class has attempted to modernize the residential propertiesliving quarters. To preserve the city's historic charactercharater, strict guidelines target designated historic districts and traditional neighbourhoods. Within these zones, new residents have to obey a locally adapted architectural style, using classic wooden shutters and traditionalolder building materials, and the demolitiondomolition of typical historical homes is banned.

4

In conclusion, despite endeavors to allow freedomallow for freedom of expression in design, I believe that it is generally more valuable to follow and preserve historically relevant design principles.

Overall assessment

Why this response received Band 8.0

This essay presents a highly effective response with a well-developed argument, seamless logical progression, and relevant concrete examples. The vocabulary is rich and precise, complemented by sophisticated grammatical control throughout the text. To elevate the work further, subtle spelling slips should be proofread and the supporting examples can be tied even more explicitly back to individual housing choices versus municipal rules.

Band score breakdown

IELTS Writing Criteria Scores

TR

Task Response

8.0
Scoring rule

The essay thoroughly addresses both perspectives in the prompt while maintaining a clear and well-supported personal stance.

Next step

Ensure that examples focusing on general architecture explicitly highlight residential housing choices to keep the task focus completely clear.

CC

Coherence and Cohesion

8.0
Scoring rule

Information and ideas are organized logically with clear paragraph divisions and smooth cohesive connections.

Next step

Vary transitional phrases between paragraphs slightly to avoid reliance on standard connective formulas.

LR

Lexical Resource

8.0
Scoring rule

The response demonstrates a wide range of sophisticated, natural vocabulary used accurately in context.

Next step

Proofread carefully to eliminate minor spelling typos in complex terms.

GRA

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

8.0
Scoring rule

A wide variety of complex grammatical structures is used with a high degree of control and accuracy.

Next step

Maintain punctuation accuracy in longer, multi-clause sentences to preserve clarity.