GMAT Essays (AWA)

I take the Gmat on monday. Please rate my essay !
Many thanks in advance.


“Most people would agree that buildings represent a valuable record of any society’s past, but controversy arises when old buildings stand on ground that modern planners feel could be better used for modern purposes”.
In your opinion, which is more important – preserving historic buildings or encouraging modern development?


The issue of the choice between preserving historic buildings and encouraging modern development is complex and controversial. Many people think that old buildings have an historical interest and, hence, argue that everything should be made in order to preserve these valuable records of the past from modern planners’ intentions. On the other hand, it can be defended that human development sometimes need a break with the past and that encouraging the implementation of new buildings is a more important concern than keeping old and useless buildings. Both perspectives are important, but, overall, the advantages of preserving historic buildings outweigh the drawbacks. In this discussion, I shall present argument favouring the first statement and refuting the latter statement.

Preserving the heritage of the past decades is one of the toughest works in the world. Thus, any building which represents a record of the society’s past must be protected and the mayors of all the major cities should control all the projects related to the destruction of old buildings. Moreover, it can be noted that the most beautiful cities in the world are frequently the cities where there are historical buildings. Indeed, according to a recent survey, American people think that if Paris is Paris, it is because of the charm of its old stones. Therefore, preserving historical records of the past may allow the development of tourism and improve the local economy.

Naturally, the objections that can be raised about the necessity of building an environment compatible with the today’s life conditions are substantial. However, it seems likely, though unfortunate, that the projects of modernization of old buildings in order to make them more comfortable disappointed their supporters.

While the choice between preserving historic buildings and trying to rebuild them in a more modern way must be considered carefully, the necessity to keep and protect the records of past’s society provides convincing and thorough support that preserving historic buildings is appropriate.