IELTS Writing Task 2 with sample answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Many old buildings are protected by the government. Some people think that the old buildings should be knocked down to create new office and houses. Is history becoming an obstacle in the path of progress?
Discuss the importance of old buildings?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Sample Answer:
Nowadays, the government is taking initiatives to preserves historical buildings and monuments. In many circles, it is argued that the old structures should be demolished for building imposing edifices. They contend that these buildings are impeding our progress. To my way of thinking, historical buildings and monuments are of vital importance.
First of all, historical property plays a cultural role. By preserving old architecture, we are able to manifest the aesthetic and historical culture of our nation. In other words, historical structures cultivate a sense of pride and heritage which has made us unique in the world. Apart from that, some architecture have specific historical backdrop and have to be conserved exactly. This is because present and future generation can learn so many things from these historical sites. Most importantly, the old buildings and monuments can fuel the sense of identity.
Secondly, historical buildings preservation can be a powerful key to sustaining local economy, generating myriad job opportunities and even capital. That is to say, many empirical evidences show that historical properties can boost hotel and tourism industry as they are great attractor of tourists. The industry involves in many different sectors, so it also can create so many job prospects in different sectors. Besides, it may also attract huge investment from overseas.
Finally, conservation and restoration is also good for environment. To give an illustration of what I mean, let’s consider process of building new structures that requires huge energy on the one hand, and many things simply go to waste on the other. By preserving old buildings, we can reduce construction waste and the energy consumption that is usually used to manufacture and transport building materials.
To recapitulate, historical properties conserved by the government possess a great significance. It is worthwhile to culture and heritage, economy, and environment. Besides, the conservation of old buildings and monuments are a one-way street. There is no way to renovate or to save a historic property once it has torn down. To cap it all, we can never be sure what will be valued in the future.