Example 1 · Paragraph A
Model answer: i
Why: Paragraph A explains how some gardens developed from decorative features into shared community spaces.
How to use this sample
Study the two worked examples, then complete the independent practice. Submit to review answers and explanations. Scores exclude the examples; Writing and Speaking use self-review rather than automatic band marking.
Original SUFAS teaching material. This is a focused sample exercise, not a full IELTS examination.
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Rooftop gardens in crowded cities
A. Rooftop gardens were first promoted as attractive additions to new apartment blocks. In several neighbourhoods, however, residents began sharing the harvest and using the roofs for weekend workshops. City planners now describe some gardens as community spaces as much as decorative features.
B. The amount of food a roof can produce depends on sunlight, wind and the depth of its growing beds. A project that flourishes on a sheltered building may struggle on a taller, exposed one, so organisers are advised to assess each site before selecting crops.
C. Installing lightweight beds can be relatively affordable, but owners must also consider waterproofing, lifts for transporting soil and future repairs. These continuing expenses are often missing from early estimates, making a low construction price a poor guide to the full cost.
D. Many project reports count the kilograms of vegetables harvested. Fewer record who uses the space, whether neighbours meet there or how often the roof is closed for maintenance. Researchers say these missing measures make it difficult to compare the wider value of different gardens.
Choose the correct heading for each paragraph from the list. There are extra headings. Use each heading only once.
i. A change from decoration to a shared neighbourhood resource
ii. The reason every city should grow the same crops
iii. Why success depends on the conditions of each roof
iv. A hidden long-term cost behind an appealing project
v. A gap in the way garden benefits are measured
vi. How new lifts have reduced the price of construction
Two worked examples
Example 2 · Paragraph B
Model answer: iii
Why: Paragraph B says results depend on sunlight, wind and roof design, so each site needs separate assessment.
Independent practice
The two worked examples are excluded from the score. Answer the remaining questions, then submit.