Class 9
Task 2 – Problem/Cause - Solution
Problem/cause-solution - Sample question [Overpopulation of urban areas has led to numerous
problems. Describe one or two serious ones and suggest ways that governments and individuals can
tackle these problems.]
Introduction Introductory/General statement + paraphrase of the given statement (briefly introduce
both the problems/causes and solutions) + Propose a solution [3-5 sentences]
Body 1 Problems/Causes: PEEL Method
Body 2 Solution(s): PEEL Method
Conclusion Summarize both the problems/causes and solution(s) (2-3 sentences)
PEEL Method
P = Point (main idea), E = Explanation, E = Evidence / Example, L = Link back to the main idea
Problems: Unemployment, poverty, traffic jam, political instability, hamper
economic growth, living cost, accommodation, education, health, service quality,
food, communicable diseases, transport, tough to maintain facilities, carbon
emissions, crime, corruption, inflation, sound, air, water pollution, water shortage,
deforestation, biodiversity, load shedding, agricultural land, global warming.
Sample question [Overpopulation of urban areas has led to numerous problems. Describe
one or two serious ones and suggest ways that governments and individuals can tackle these
problems.]
Sample Answer:
In recent decades, the world has experienced an explosion of population in many
countries. This has proved to be particularly challenging in towns and cities as
most people want to live in these places. Although this can create a number of
issues, it can be tackled with initiatives such as decentralization and proper family
planning.
There are a number of problems caused by overpopulation in the urban areas. To
begin with, because of the limited number of job opportunities against a large
number of people, many remain unemployed which is the primary cause of
poverty. This then leads to social problems such as crime and corruption which
act as catalysts for political instability in a country. Over time, many issues occur
from this. To illustrate, the lack of control over basic services lead to a
deterioration in the quality of facilities, such as education and treatment, for
citizens. It also gives birth to inflation leading to higher living costs that includes
higher rent, higher prices for daily necessities and so on. Moreover, the increased
number of people in the streets means that there will be severe traffic congestions
which will greatly contribute to air and sound pollution. Together, all these
problems hamper the quality of life in towns and cities.
However, there are some ways to combat these issues. First, major cities should
be decentralized so that people do not depend on one city for everything. This will
take some people out of cities and prevent new people from moving in.
Furthermore, proper family planning lessons should be provided for free to raise
awareness, especially among socio-economically disadvantaged groups, who
lack the knowledge of the consequences of it. For example, campaigns promoting
family planning can be organized in suburban areas and slums where people at
most risk of the consequences of overpopulation. are
To conclude, overpopulation is a crisis that can have severe detrimental effects
on urban areas. However, with the decentralization of cities and ample awareness,
this problem can be alleviated.
Some "Problem-Solution" and "Cause-Solution" questions for IELTS Writing Task 2:
Problem-Solution Questions:
"Cities around the world are grappling with severe traffic congestion. What are the primary issues
associated with traffic jams, and how might these challenges be addressed?"
"High unemployment rates persist in numerous countries. What problems are associated with
unemployment, and what measures could be taken to alleviate this problem?"
"The issue of environmental pollution is escalating globally. What are the problems caused by
environmental pollution, and what strategies could be implemented to mitigate their impact?"
"The prevalence of obesity is a significant health concern in various nations. What are the issues
derived from obesity, and what actions might be taken to combat this health issue?"
"In many urban centers, the shortage of affordable housing is a critical problem. What challenges
arise due to the insufficient availability of affordable housing, and how can these challenges be
addressed?"
Cause-Solution Questions:
"Urban areas are witnessing a surge in crime rates. What are the underlying causes of this increase
in criminal activities, and what measures could be implemented to control this trend?"
"Some schools are experiencing a decline in the academic performance of students. What factors
contribute to this decline, and what strategies might be employed to improve academic outcomes?"
"A sedentary lifestyle is leading to health problems for many individuals. What are the main causes of
a lack of physical activity, and what initiatives could be taken to promote a more active lifestyle?"
"Water scarcity is a pressing issue in numerous regions. What factors contribute to water scarcity, and
what measures could be adopted to ensure sustainable water usage?"
"Social isolation is an increasing concern in contemporary society. What are the primary causes of
social isolation, and what steps can be taken to foster a more connected and supportive community?"