Calming Traffic on Our Street

The task

Several drivers have been speeding on a residential street near an elementary school in your neighbourhood. The city's transportation department is asking residents which solution they would prefer. Choose the option you prefer and explain the reasons for your choice. Write about 150-200 words. Option A: Install three speed bumps along the street. Option B: Lower the speed limit from 50 to 30 km/h and install a photo radar camera.

• Choose Option A or Option B.
• Explain the reasons for your choice with details and examples.

Length

150–200 words

Time

26 minutes

Question

11 of 15

I would choose Option A, installing speed bumps, because they slow down every driver, every time, without relying on fines. My first reason is that speed bumps work immediately and permanently. A driver who sees a bump ahead has no choice but to brake, whether it is eight in the morning or eleven at night. A lower speed limit, on the other hand, is only a number on a sign, and I have noticed that many drivers on our street already ignore the current limit of 50 km/h. My second reason is that a single camera covers only one spot. Drivers quickly learn where it is, slow down for a few metres, and then speed up again before the school crossing. Three bumps spread along the street would keep speeds low along the whole block, including near the playground where children run to catch the bus. I admit that speed bumps can be uncomfortable for drivers and may slow snowploughs slightly in winter. However, these small inconveniences are worth it if they prevent a child from being injured. In short, speed bumps are the more effective and reliable solution.

Why this answer works

• The opening contrast between slowing every driver and relying on fines frames the whole argument clearly.
• The point that drivers speed up after passing a camera shows careful, realistic thinking about behaviour.
• It honestly concedes the snowplough issue and weighs it against child safety in a controlled way.