Updated 2026-08-28medium

Duolingo English Test Interactive Writing Practice #6 — Medium Level

Free DET (Duolingo English Test) Interactive Writing practice #6 — Medium level. Just DET Writing questions, no grading — solve it yourself and check the answer or model response.

How to practice: This set collects only the Interactive Writing question type from the real DET (Duolingo English Test) — DET Writing questions. No grading, no timer — solve it yourself, then tap each question to reveal the answer or model response.

Smart city technology refers to the use of digital systems — such as sensors, data analytics, and artificial intelligence — to manage urban infrastructure and services more efficiently. Cities that adopt smart technology can optimize traffic flow, reduce energy consumption, and improve emergency response times. For example, smart traffic lights can adjust in real time based on vehicle density, reducing both congestion and fuel use.

Another application is smart energy grids, which use data to balance electricity supply and demand across a city. This makes the grid more efficient and helps integrate renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. Smart waste management systems can signal when bins are full, reducing unnecessary collection trips and saving fuel.

However, not everyone is enthusiastic about the smart city vision. Critics raise concerns about data collection and surveillance. When sensors and cameras are installed throughout a city, questions arise about who owns the data, how it is stored, and whether it could be used to monitor citizens without their consent. The balance between urban efficiency and individual privacy remains a key debate in smart city development.

Part 1

Based on the reading passage, write about how smart city technology can improve urban life. Include specific examples from the passage and explain why these improvements matter. (5 minutes)

Useful Expressions

optimize traffic flow · smart energy grids · data collection and surveillance · balance between efficiency and privacy

Show Model Answer

Smart city technology has the potential to significantly improve life in urban areas in several ways. According to the passage, one key benefit is the optimization of traffic flow. Smart traffic lights that respond to real-time vehicle density can reduce congestion and lower fuel consumption. This is especially significant in large cities where traffic jams cost residents time and contribute substantially to air pollution.

Another major benefit is smarter energy management. Smart grids help balance electricity supply and demand, and make it easier to incorporate renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. This reduces a city's dependence on fossil fuels, which is essential for meeting climate targets. Additionally, smart waste management systems that alert collection services only when bins are full can reduce unnecessary vehicle trips, further cutting emissions.

Overall, these technologies make cities more efficient, environmentally friendly, and responsive to residents' needs. As urban populations continue to grow, smart solutions will be increasingly important in ensuring that city services can keep up with demand.

Part 2

Now consider the privacy concerns mentioned in the reading. Do you think the benefits of smart city technology outweigh the privacy risks? Explain your position with reasons. (3 minutes)

Show Model Answer

This is a genuinely difficult question because both sides have valid points. Smart city technology offers real, measurable improvements to urban life — reduced traffic, lower energy use, and faster emergency response times. These are not trivial benefits, especially in densely populated cities where inefficiency has serious consequences.

However, the privacy risks are also serious. If sensors and cameras collect data on citizens' movements and behaviors without clear consent and strong legal protections, there is a real risk of misuse. Governments or private companies could use this data in ways that undermine civil liberties.

I believe the benefits can outweigh the risks, but only if strong data privacy regulations are in place from the beginning. Cities should be transparent about what data is collected and give residents meaningful control over how it is used. Technology alone does not create a smart city — good governance and accountability are equally essential.

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