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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Should governments provide universal access to afdable housing?

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Task 2: Should governments provide universal access to affordable housing?

Model Answer:

In recent years, the issue of affordable housing has become increasingly significant, particularly in urban areas. The question arises whether or not governments should be responsible for ensuring universal access to such housing. While it is true that governments have a responsibility to provide basic necessities for their citizens, the extent and manner of this involvement are debatable.

On one hand, proponents argue that the state must step in to guarantee access to affordable housing. They point out that in many countries, especially those experiencing rapid urbanization, market forces alone cannot meet the demand for housing. In such circumstances, a significant portion of the population is left with no choice but to live in substandard or overcrowded conditions. This, in turn, can lead to social and health issues, as well as an overall decrease in quality of life. Consequently, it could be argued that governments have an obligation to ensure affordable housing for all, regardless of their socio-economic backgrounds.

On the other hand, opponents of state intervention argue that providing universal access to affordable housing may not always be the most effective solution. They contend that a mix of market-driven and government-assisted initiatives is necessary. For instance, governments can implement policies such as rent controls or subsidies for low-income households, thereby indirectly influencing the availability and affordability of housing without taking complete control over the housing sector. Moreover, critics argue that state-provided housing might not necessarily be of high quality or well-maintained, potentially leading to long-term issues such as slums or deteriorating living conditions.

In conclusion, while it is essential for governments to address the issue of affordable housing, the extent and manner in which they should become involved remains a matter of debate. A combination of market-driven and government-assisted initiatives may be more effective in ensuring equitable access to housing than a one-size-fits-all approach. Governments need to strike a balance between their responsibilities to their citizens and the potential unintended consequences of extensive state intervention in the housing sector.

Overall score (based on IELTS scoring standards):
- Task Response: 9
- Coherence & Cohesion: 8.5
- Lexical Resource: 8
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy: 9

Total Band Score (rounded): 8.75

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