Write for an Academic Discussion

A professor has posted a question about a topic and students have responded with their thoughts and ideas. Make a contribution to the discussion.
You will have 10 minutes to write.

Your professor is teaching a class on social studies.

In your response, you should do the following.

• • Express and support your opinion.
• • Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words.

Professor’s question:

Many cities are encouraging the use of public transportation, like buses and trains, to reduce traffic and pollution. To do this, some propose making all public transport free for residents. They believe this would dramatically increase ridership. However, opponents say the system would become overcrowded and the operational costs would be too high. Do you think cities should offer free public transportation? Why?

Student response 1:

I think free public transportation is an excellent idea because it would provide a huge benefit to low-income residents and students. It would also significantly reduce the number of cars on the road, which is great for the environment. Therefore, the long-term social benefits outweigh the costs.

Student response 2:

I don't think this is a sustainable plan. The system would require a massive amount of funding from taxes, which might not be fair to people who don't use it. Moreover, the buses and trains could become so crowded that the quality of service would decline for everyone as a result.