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[IELTS SPEAKING] Urban development

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  • Over the past decade, the city has improved __________, especially in transport and housing.
    play catch-up
    widen the gap
    short-term fix
    by leaps and bounds
  • Is housing affordable in big cities in your country?
    In most big cities, housing is expensive, especially in central areas, making it hard for young people to buy homes.
  • Many migrants move to big cities to __________.
    short-term fix
    make a living
    level the playing field
    play catch-up
  • Living in a major city gives young people more chances to __________.
    climb the career ladder
    come at a price
    widen the gap
    double-edged sword
  • How does urban development affect the environment?
    If poorly managed, it can cause pollution and habitat loss, but sustainable planning can minimize negative impacts.
  • Do you think skyscrapers are a good solution for crowded cities?
    Yes, they save space and accommodate more people, but they must be well planned to avoid overpopulation issues.
  • Despite traffic and pollution, the benefits of city life often __________.
    come back to bite them
    play catch-up
    widen the gap
    outweigh the downsides
  • To solve traffic congestion, city planners need to __________.
    think outside the box
    play catch-up
    make a living
    come at a price
  • What facilities should a well-developed city have?
    A well-developed city should have good transport, healthcare, schools, parks, and entertainment facilities.
  • Building more roads is only a __________ and does not solve traffic problems permanently.
    double-edged sword
    short-term fix
    make-or-break
    career ladder
  • The city expanded __________ without proper planning, which resulted in traffic congestion.
    at breakneck speed
    in the long run
    out of the blue
    on the safe side
  • How does urban development affect young people?
    It creates more job opportunities but also increases competition and living costs.
  • How can cities become more environmentally friendly?
    By using renewable energy, promoting public transport, and increasing green spaces.
  • Do you think public transport is important for urban development?
    Yes, efficient public transport reduces traffic jams, lowers pollution, and makes cities more livable.
  • How can governments reduce traffic congestion in cities?
    They can invest in public transport, encourage carpooling, and improve urban planning.
  • Public transport helps __________ by giving everyone better access to jobs.
    come at a price
    widen the gap
    level the playing field
    come back to bite them
  • What role do green spaces play in urban areas?
    Green spaces improve air quality, provide relaxation areas, and enhance residents’ quality of life.
  • The city expanded __________, causing serious pressure on infrastructure.
    come at a price
    by leaps and bounds
    make-or-break
    at breakneck speed
  • Should old buildings be preserved in modern cities?
    Yes, preserving old buildings helps maintain cultural identity while balancing modernization.
  • Urban development is a __________ because it brings both opportunities and challenges.
    make-or-break
    short-term fix
    double-edged sword
    career ladder
  • What problems do big cities often face?
    Major problems include traffic congestion, air pollution, high living costs, and a shortage of affordable housing.
  • How important is city planning for quality of life?
    Good city planning is crucial because it affects traffic flow, safety, and overall comfort.
  • Rapid urban development can improve living standards, but it often __________.
    levels the playing field
    makes a living
    comes at a price
    thinks outside the box
  • How has your city changed in recent years?
    My city has developed rapidly with more high-rise buildings, wider roads, and better public transport systems.
  • What are the advantages of living in a modern city?
    Modern cities offer better job opportunities, convenient facilities, and easier access to education and healthcare.
  • For many cities, sustainable urban planning is a __________ decision for their future.
    double-edged sword
    career ladder
    make-or-break
    short-term fix
  • Would you like to live in a newly developed area? Why or why not?
    Yes, because new areas usually have better infrastructure, though they may lack a sense of community at first.
  • Many developing cities are trying to __________ with more advanced urban areas.
    play catch-up
    think outside the box
    short-term fix
    make a living
  • Do you prefer living in the city or the countryside? Why?
    I prefer the city because it offers more opportunities and better facilities, despite being noisy and crowded.
  • Do you think cities in your country are well planned?
    Some areas are well planned, especially new districts, but older parts of cities often suffer from overcrowding and poor infrastructure.
  • Do you think smart cities are the future?
    Yes, smart cities use technology to improve efficiency, reduce pollution, and enhance living standards.