IELTS General Task 2: Knowing Our Neighbours
IELTS Writing Practice — AI-Powered Feedback
Writing Prompt
Write about the following topic:
In many towns and cities today, people know very little about their neighbours and do not feel part of a local community.
Why do you think this has happened? What can be done to encourage people to get to know their neighbours?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
Show Band 8–9 model answer
In many urban areas, people live side by side yet remain strangers. In my view, this trend results mainly from modern lifestyles and urban design, and it can be reversed through both community initiatives and changes in how we plan residential areas.
One key reason for weak neighbourhood ties is the increasingly hectic pace of life. Long working hours, lengthy commutes and the pressure to keep up with personal and professional responsibilities leave many people exhausted. When they return home, they prefer privacy over social interaction, so they may avoid small talk in lifts or stairwells. In addition, the rise of digital communication has shifted social life online; people chat with friends across the world rather than with those living next door. Finally, many city neighbourhoods are highly transient. Tenants move frequently for work or study, so residents feel there is little point in investing time in relationships that may be short-lived.
However, there are several effective ways to strengthen local communities. Firstly, local councils and housing associations can organise regular events, such as street parties, weekend markets or volunteering projects, which give residents a natural reason to meet. In my own city, a monthly community clean-up has become a social occasion, with neighbours talking over coffee after working together. Secondly, architects and planners should prioritise shared spaces—courtyards, roof gardens and common rooms—in new apartment blocks, encouraging casual interactions. Finally, digital tools can be repurposed to build, rather than replace, local connections; neighbourhood apps and social media groups can help residents share information, organise activities and welcome newcomers.
In conclusion, busy modern lives, digital habits and transient populations have weakened neighbourhood bonds, but well-designed events, community spaces and online platforms can make it far easier for people to get to know those who live around them.
Why this response works
This essay fully addresses both parts of the question with a clear, consistent position. The ideas are well developed with specific, relevant examples, such as the community clean-up, supporting Task Response. Cohesion is strong: each paragraph has a clear focus, logical progression and effective use of referencing and linking devices without overuse. The range of vocabulary is varied and precise (e.g. “transient populations”, “prioritise shared spaces”), and the grammar demonstrates flexibility with mostly error-free complex structures, fulfilling Band 8–9 criteria across all assessment areas.
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