This is an essay by Iris Lin for a writing task in the NorthStar Building Skills for the TOEFL iBT Advanced
Urban
sprawl is the growth of cities in an unplanned manner. U.S. cities and
towns are experiencing urban sprawl, leading to the rise of anti-sprawl
movements such as New Urbanism. Urban sprawl has some negative and positive
effects. In the passage, we learn about how New Urbanism principles can help
solve the problems of urban sprawl.
Urban
sprawl problems include four parts. First, suburban cities grow outward and use
land that should be left to nature. Second, single-family homes cause sprawl.
Third, there are traffic jams between suburbs and cities. Fourth, there is lack
of social interaction. For instance, in the 1990s, L.A. ,
Atlanta , and Houston experienced urban sprawl. It is very
harmful, and environmental groups such as the Sierra Club call sprawl “irresponsible,”
a “cancer,” a “virus,” and misuse of the land.
On the
other hand, the principles of New Urbanism can solve the problems and cities
are built that don’t harm the environment, don’t cut down trees, don’t pollute
the water, while protecting animal habitats. Second, New Urbanism builds
single- and multi-family residences. Third, New Urbanism develops
transportation systems by region. It provides housing and jobs, creates
neighborhoods where people can walk to stores, public transportation and parks.
Fourth, New Urbanism increases social interaction.
