ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

Before you read, think about these questions and try to

answer them as thoroughly as possible. You can even write
down your answers and review them after you have finished
reading.
1. How much do you know about the history of cities?
2. How important do you think cities were in the progress of
human civilization?
3. Why are so many people today living in cities?
4. What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of
living in cities?
5. What about living in the countryside?
6. Would you personally prefer to live in a city or the
countryside?

1
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

HISTORY OF CITIES
Cities are considered to be one of the oldest human inventions, with the earliest known city,
Jericho, dating back to around 8000 BCE. This ancient city, located in present-day Palestine, was
fortified and had a complex social structure, making it one of the first examples of urbanization
in human history. Other early cities, such as Uruk in Mesopotamia and Memphis in Egypt, also
emerged around this time, and were centers of trade, religion, and governance. The emergence
of cities can be traced back to a number of factors, including population growth, technological
advancements, and the development of trade and commerce. As human populations grew and
societies became more complex, people began to live in close proximity to one another, and
cities emerged as centers of trade, religion, and governance.

The development of agriculture, which allowed for the production of surplus food, was a key
factor in the emergence of cities. This surplus food allowed some people to specialize in other
occupations, such as trade, craftsmanship, and governance, and the growth of cities was driven
by the need for these specialized services. The growth of trade and commerce also played a key
role in the emergence of cities, as cities became centers of exchange for goods and services.
The growth of cities was also driven by technological advancements, such as the development
of writing and the wheel. These technological advancements allowed for the creation of
complex social and economic systems, and facilitated the growth of cities as centers of trade,
religion, and governance.

The growth and development of cities continued throughout ancient history, with the rise of
civilizations such as the Sumerians, the Babylonians, and the Egyptians. These civilizations saw
the growth of cities as centers of commerce, culture, and politics, with the city serving as the
hub of their respective civilizations. In ancient Greece, city-states such as Athens and Sparta
emerged as major centers of culture, politics, and warfare, and the legacy of these ancient cities
can still be seen in the modern world. The Middle Ages saw the growth and development of
cities throughout Europe, with many of the great cities of Europe, such as Paris, London, and
Rome, established during this period. During the Middle Ages, cities became centers of
commerce, culture, and politics, and played a key role in shaping the political, cultural, and
economic landscape of Europe.

The Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries brought about a new era of
urbanization, as people flocked to cities in search of work. The growth of cities was driven by the
rise of industry, and the cities of the Industrial Revolution, such as Manchester, Liverpool, and
Birmingham, became major centers of manufacturing and trade. The growth of cities during this
period brought about significant social and economic changes, and paved the way for the
modern city as we know it today. In the 20th century, cities became centers of technological
innovation, culture, and politics. Many of the world's largest cities, such as New York, Tokyo, and
London, experienced rapid growth and development, and became major centers of commerce,
culture, and politics. The 20th century saw the growth of the modern metropolis, with cities

2
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

becoming global centers of power and influence, shaping the political, economic, and cultural
landscape of the world.

Today, cities face a range of challenges, including urbanization, globalization, and climate
change. Despite these challenges, cities remain vital centers of economic, cultural, and political
life, and will continue to play a key role in shaping the future of our world. The future of cities
will be shaped by a number of factors, including technological innovation, demographic
changes, and environmental sustainability, and it is likely that cities will continue to evolve and
adapt to meet the changing needs and challenges of the world. As cities continue to grow and
become more interconnected, it is essential that we develop sustainable and equitable solutions
to the challenges they face, such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. The
future of cities will also be shaped by the development of new technologies, such as smart cities
and sustainable transportation, which have the potential to greatly improve the quality of life
for city residents and reduce their environmental impact.

Ultimately, the future of cities will depend on the ability of leaders and citizens to work together
to create livable, sustainable, and equitable urban environments. This will require collaboration
between government, the private sector, and civil society, as well as the implementation of
innovative solutions that address the challenges faced by cities. By working together, we can
ensure that cities continue to thrive as centers of economic, cultural, and political life, and play a
vital role in shaping the future of our world.

Topic-specific vocabulary.
1. City - a large human settlement, typically characterized by a complex social,
economic, and political organization.
2. Urbanization - the process of converting land from rural to urban use, resulting in
the growth of cities.
3. Centers - a place where something is active, located or occurs.
4. Governance - the process of decision-making and the management of public affairs.
5. Agriculture - the cultivation of land, raising of livestock, and production of crops for
food, fuel, or other products.
6. Specialize - to concentrate one's attention or efforts on a particular subject or activity.
7. Craftsmanship - the skill, experience, and knowledge used in the creation of a
particular item.
8. Technological advancements - improvements in the development and use of technology.
9. Social and economic systems - the organized way in which a society functions,
including its economic, political, and legal structure.
10. Middle Ages - a period of European history from the 5th to the 15th
centuries, characterized by feudalism, the rise of nation-states, and the
growth of towns.
11. Industrial Revolution - a period of rapid economic growth and industrialization in the
late 18th and early 19th centuries, marked by the introduction of new manufacturing
3
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

processes and transportation systems.

4
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

12. Manufacturing - the process of producing goods in a factory, using machines and
manual labor.
13. Technological innovation - the process of creating new technologies or
improving existing ones.
14. Demographic changes - changes in the composition and distribution of a
population, including factors such as age, race, and gender.
15. Environmental sustainability - the responsible use of natural resources in a way that
meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations
to meet their own needs.
16. Smart cities - cities that use technology to improve the quality of life for residents,
reduce environmental impact, and enhance services such as transportation and
healthcare.
17. Sustainable transportation - modes of transportation that are environmentally
friendly, efficient, and affordable.
18. Livable - suitable for living in or inhabiting.
19. Equitable - fair and impartial.
20. Environmental degradation - the decline in the quality of the environment, often due
to human activities such as pollution and deforestation.
21. Collaboration - the act of working together with others to achieve a common goal.
22. Private sector - businesses and organizations that are privately owned and operated, as
opposed to those that are government-owned.
23. Civil society - the network of individuals, organizations, and institutions that exist
outside of the government and the private sector, and that are involved in issues such as
politics, culture, and the environment.

Advantages and disadvantages of living in the city.

Cities have been the centers of human civilization for thousands of years and continue to be
home to millions of people around the world. While living in cities has many advantages, there
are also several significant disadvantages to consider. In this article, we will explore the
advantages and disadvantages of living in cities.

Advantages of Living in Cities

1. Access to amenities and services: One of the biggest advantages of living in a city is
the access to a wide range of amenities and services. From shopping centers to
healthcare facilities, cities offer everything that people need to live a comfortable and
convenient life. For example, New York City has a world-renowned healthcare system
and a diverse array of shopping options, from luxury boutiques to discount stores.
2. Job opportunities: Another major advantage of living in a city is the abundance of job
5
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

opportunities. Cities are often home to major businesses and industries, which creates a

6
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

large pool of job opportunities for people from all walks of life. For example, San
Francisco is a hub for the technology industry, and is home to numerous startups and
major tech companies such as Google and Apple.
3. Public transportation: Cities typically have well-developed public transportation systems,
making it easy for residents to get around without relying on a personal vehicle. This can
save money on transportation costs and reduce the impact of traffic congestion and air
pollution. For example, cities like Tokyo and London have extensive public transportation
systems, including subways, buses, and trains, which allow people to easily and
efficiently get around the city.
4. Cultural diversity: Cities are known for their cultural diversity, with people from different
backgrounds and cultures living and working together. This cultural diversity can lead to
a rich and vibrant community and can offer residents exposure to a wide range of
cultural experiences. For example, Toronto is a city known for its diversity, with a large
immigrant population and a thriving cultural scene.
5. Exciting nightlife: Cities often have a thriving nightlife, with many restaurants, bars, and
clubs. This can provide residents with plenty of opportunities to socialize, relax, and
have fun after hours. For example, cities like Paris and Berlin are known for their vibrant
nightlife scenes, with numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs that stay open late into the
night.

Disadvantages of Living in Cities

1. Cost of living: One of the biggest disadvantages of living in a city is the cost of living.
Cities tend to be more expensive than their suburban or rural counterparts, with higher
housing costs, transportation costs, and overall living expenses. For example, cities like
San Francisco and London are known for their high cost of living, with expensive
housing and high taxes.
2. Crowded and noisy: Cities can be crowded and noisy, with high population densities
and constant hustle and bustle. This can lead to increased stress levels, noise pollution,
and a lack of privacy. For example, cities like New Delhi and Manila are known for their
high population densities and intense traffic congestion.
3. Crime and safety concerns: Cities can also be more prone to crime and safety concerns,
with higher levels of theft, assault, and other forms of crime. This can be a major
concern for residents, especially those with families. For example, cities like Rio de
Janeiro and Johannesburg have high levels of crime and safety concerns, and residents
may need to take extra precautions to stay safe.
4. Environmental problems: Cities can also be more prone to environmental problems,
such as air pollution, traffic congestion, and waste disposal issues. This can be harmful to
the environment and the health of residents and can have long-term consequences for
the city as a whole.

In conclusion, living in cities has both advantages and disadvantages. While cities offer access to
amenities and services, job opportunities, public transportation, cultural diversity, and exciting nightlife,
they also come with challenges such as high costs of living, crowded and noisy environments, crime
7
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

and safety

8
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

concerns, and environmental problems. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to live in a city will
depend on a person's individual priorities and needs. For some, the benefits of city living may outweigh
the challenges, while for others, a more suburban or rural lifestyle may be more appealing. It is important
for each person to carefully consider their own needs and preferences when deciding where to live.

1. Human Civilization: The complex of human society, social institutions, and culture that
has developed over thousands of years.
2. Amenities: A feature or service offered by a hotel, restaurant, or other establishment that
is designed to provide comfort, convenience, or pleasure.
3. Services: An action or task performed for another person or for the benefit of society as
a whole.
4. Job Opportunities: A situation or possibility of employment or advancement.
5. Businesses: An activity that someone is engaged in to make a living or to make a profit.
6. Industries: A particular type of economic or commercial activity, often characterized by
its size and scope.
7. Public Transportation: A system of vehicles, such as buses and trains, that are available
for use by the public and are often subsidized by the government.
8. Cultural Diversity: The presence of a wide range of cultural, ethnic, or national groups in
a particular area or community.
9. Community: A group of people living in the same place or having a particular
characteristic in common.
10. Nightlife: The entertainment and social activities available during the evening and
night, especially in cities.
11. Cost of Living: The amount of money needed to maintain a particular standard of
living, taking into account factors such as housing, transportation, and food.
12. Crowded: Full of people or things; overcrowded.
13. Noisy: Making or characterized by a lot of noise.
14. Population Density: The number of people living in a particular area, typically measured
per square kilometer or square mile.
15. Hustle and Bustle: A busy, noisy, and energetic activity or atmosphere.
16. Stress Levels: The pressure and tension experienced by a person as a result of their
situation or environment.
17. Noise Pollution: Unwanted or harmful noise in the environment.
18. Privacy: The state of being alone or free from the presence or intrusion of others.
19. Crime: An illegal act for which someone can be punished by the law.
20. Safety Concerns: The state of being protected from harm, danger, or injury.
21. Environmental Problems: Issues or problems related to the natural environment, such
as pollution, waste disposal, and depletion of natural resources.
22. Hub - a center of activity or interest.
23. Thriving - growing or developing vigorously; flourishing.
24. Exposure - the state or fact of being subjected to something.
25. Vibrant - lively and full of energy.
26. Hustle and bustle - a busy and usually noisy atmosphere or activity.
27. Stress levels - the amount of stress experienced by a person.

9
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

28. Privacy - the state of being free from public attention or observation.
29. Theft - the act of stealing.
30. Assault - a physical attack on someone.
31. Precautions - steps taken to prevent something from happening or to reduce the risk
of harm.
32. Priorities - a person's goals, plans, or intentions that they consider most important.
33. Preferences - a person's likes, dislikes, or choices in a particular matter.
34. Abundance - a very large quantity; an ample supply.
35. Pool - a large body of something, especially a supply or resource.
36. Immigrant - a person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country.
37. Cost of living - the cost of maintaining a certain standard of living, especially with regard
to the cost of housing, food, and transportation.
38. Population density - the number of people living in a particular area, usually measured
per square mile or kilometer.
39. Crime - an action or omission that constitutes an offense and is punishable by law.
40. Theft - the act of taking something that belongs to someone else without their permission.
41. Assault - a physical attack or a threat of physical attack on a person.
42. Long-term consequences - the potential future impacts or effects of a particular
action, decision, or situation.
43. Individual priorities - the things that are most important or of most concern to a
particular person.
44. Suburban - relating to or situated in the suburbs of a city.
45. Rural - relating to or characteristic of the countryside, especially in relation to agricultural
or farming life.

Advantages and disadvantages of living in the countryside.

The countryside has been a popular place to live for generations, offering a peaceful and rural
lifestyle that is distinct from city living. While the countryside has many advantages, there are
also several disadvantages to consider. In this article, we will explore the advantages and
disadvantages of living in the countryside.

Advantages of Living in the Countryside

1. Peaceful environment: One of the biggest advantages of living in the countryside is

the peaceful environment. With less traffic, noise, and pollution, the countryside offers
a

1
0
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

tranquil and calming atmosphere that is perfect for those looking for a break from the
hustle and bustle of city life.
2. Access to nature: Another major advantage of living in the countryside is the access to
nature. With vast open spaces, rolling hills, and scenic landscapes, the countryside
offers ample opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and
fishing.
3. Lower cost of living: The cost of living in the countryside is often lower compared to
cities, with lower housing costs, transportation costs, and overall living expenses. This
can be a major advantage for those looking to save money or maintain a budget-
conscious lifestyle.
4. Strong sense of community: The countryside is often home to tight-knit communities,
where neighbors know each other and work together to support one another. This can
create a strong sense of belonging and community spirit, and can be especially
appealing for families with children.
5. More space: One of the biggest advantages of living in the countryside is the
availability of more space. With larger properties and yards, people can enjoy a
spacious and comfortable lifestyle, and can have room for gardening, hobbies, and
other activities.

Disadvantages of Living in the Countryside

1. Lack of amenities and services: One of the biggest disadvantages of living in the
countryside is the lack of amenities and services. With fewer shopping centers,
healthcare facilities, and entertainment options, people in the countryside may have to
travel longer distances to access these services.
2. Limited job opportunities: Another major disadvantage of living in the countryside is the
limited job opportunities. With fewer businesses and industries, people may have a
more limited pool of job options, and may need to commute longer distances to work.
3. Poor public transportation: The countryside often lacks well-developed public
transportation systems, making it difficult for residents to get around without relying on
a personal vehicle. This can be a major challenge for those without a car or who are
unable to drive.
4. Isolation: Living in the countryside can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, especially
for those who are used to city life and the social and cultural experiences that come
with it.
5. Environmental concerns: The countryside can also be more prone to environmental
problems, such as soil erosion, water pollution, and wildlife habitat destruction. This can
have long-term consequences for the local ecosystem and the health of the people
who live there.

In conclusion, living in the countryside has both advantages and disadvantages. While the
countryside offers a peaceful environment, access to nature, lower cost of living, strong sense
of community, and more space, it also comes with challenges such as lack of amenities and
services, limited job opportunities, poor public transportation, isolation, and environmental
1
1
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

concerns. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to live in the countryside will depend on a
person's individual priorities and needs. For some, the benefits of countryside living may

1
2
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

outweigh the challenges, while for others, a more urban lifestyle may be more appealing. It is
important for each person to carefully consider their own needs and preferences when deciding
where to live.

1. Countryside - a rural area away from cities and towns

2. Environment - the surroundings in which a person, animal, or plant lives
3. Peaceful - free from disturbance; calm
4. Traffic - the movement of vehicles, people, or goods
5. Noise - unwanted or unpleasant sound
6. Pollution - the presence in or introduction into the environment of a substance or
thing that has harmful or poisonous effects
7. Tranquil - calm and peaceful
8. Access - the right or means of approaching or entering a place
9. Nature - the physical world and everything in it, such as plants, animals, and landscapes
10. Open spaces - large areas without buildings or trees
11. Rolling hills - hills that rise and fall smoothly
12. Scenic landscapes - attractive and picturesque views
13. Outdoor activities - activities that take place in the open air
14. Hiking - walking in the countryside for pleasure or exercise
15. Camping - the activity of spending a holiday living in a tent, especially in the countryside
16. Fishing - the activity of catching fish
17. Cost of living - the amount of money needed to sustain a particular standard of living
18. Housing costs - the costs associated with acquiring and maintaining a place to live
19. Transportation costs - the costs associated with moving people or goods from one
place to another
20. Budget-conscious - mindful of expenses and careful with money
21. Strong sense of community - a feeling of belonging and being connected to a group
of people
22. Tight-knit - closely connected or firmly united
23. Neighbors - people who live near each other
24. Availability - the state of being able to be used or obtained
25. Spacious - having a lot of space
26. Amenities - a feature or service offered by a hotel, restaurant, or other business
to enhance a customer's experience
27. Services - the action of helping or doing work for someone
28. Shopping centers - places where people can go shopping
29. Healthcare facilities - buildings or institutions that provide medical care
30. Entertainment options - ways of being entertained or amused
1
3
 ONLINE IELTS BY ELDOR MUKHTOROV

Job opportunities - the chance to get a job

31. Businesses - organizations that produce or sell goods or services in order to make a profit
32. Industries - a sector of business, especially one that is large and important
33. Pool of job options - a group of job opportunities from which to choose
34. Commute - travel regularly between one's home and place of work
35. Public transportation - transportation that is available for everyone to use
36. Personal vehicle - a vehicle that is owned and used by one person
37. Isolation - the state of being alone and cut off from others
38. Social - relating to society or its organization
39. Cultural experiences - experiences that are related to the customs, beliefs, and
practices of a particular group of people
40. Environmental problems - issues that have an impact on the natural world
41. Soil erosion - the wearing away of the land surface by natural processes such as wind
or water
42. Water pollution - the presence in or introduction into water of substances that
are harmful to living things
43. Wildlife habitat destruction - the damage or removal of the places where wild
animals live and find food

1
4