Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-08-15

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In some countries, more and more people are becoming interested in finding out about the history of the house or building they live in.

What are the reasons for this?

How can people research this?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 7.5)

In recent years, an increasing number of homeowners and residents in various parts of the world have developed a keen interest in discovering the background and history of their dwellings. This fascination is primarily driven by personal curiosity and the need for structural preservation, and individuals can investigate this through public registry archives and local community resources.

There are two main reasons why people wish to uncover the history of their homes. Firstly, cultural curiosity and a desire for a deeper personal connection play a significant role. Many individuals find it fascinating to learn about the former occupants, their lifestyles, and the historical context in which the building was erected, which adds a layer of emotional value to their living space. Secondly, practical considerations regarding property maintenance and valuation motivate this research. Understanding the original architectural materials, past structural modifications, or age-related vulnerabilities helps homeowners undertake safe renovations without damaging historical features. Furthermore, establishing that a building possesses historical significance can substantially boost its market value.

To investigate a property’s past, individuals can utilize a combination of official records and local sources. The most reliable method is examining public government archives, land registries, and census records. These documents frequently contain details regarding previous ownership transfers, construction dates, and architectural blueprints. Additionally, modern technology has made this process more accessible through online historical mapping databases and digital newspaper archives. On a grassroots level, residents can consult local historical societies, elders, or long-term neighbors who often possess invaluable oral histories and photographs that official archives might lack.

In conclusion, people delve into the history of their homes out of personal intrigue and practical renovation needs. By leveraging official government land archives, digital tools, and community knowledge, individuals can effectively reconstruct the story behind their living spaces.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses both parts of the prompt. You have clearly identified two distinct reasons for the interest in home history—cultural curiosity and practical maintenance—and provided a logical range of research methods, including both formal archives and informal community sources. The ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant explanations, such as the link between historical significance and property value. The position is consistent throughout, and the response is well-structured to meet the requirements of the task. No parts of the prompt are neglected, and the development of ideas is balanced and thorough.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical progression. Each paragraph has a central topic, and the transition between the reasons for research and the methods of research is smooth. You make effective use of cohesive devices such as 'Firstly,' 'Secondly,' 'Furthermore,' and 'In conclusion,' which guide the reader through your argument without feeling mechanical. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the two main sections of the prompt. The referencing is clear, and the flow of information is natural and easy to follow throughout the entire piece.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary that is used with precision. Phrases such as 'structural preservation,' 'architectural vulnerabilities,' 'grassroots level,' and 'invaluable oral histories' show a high level of lexical control. The vocabulary is not only accurate but also contextually appropriate for an academic discussion. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used is natural and fluent, contributing significantly to the clarity and professional tone of the essay.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay exhibits a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses and varied sentence beginnings. The control over grammar is excellent, with virtually no errors in syntax, punctuation, or tense usage. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the few complex structures used are handled with high accuracy. The writing is polished and demonstrates a strong command of English grammar, which allows for a sophisticated and error-free reading experience.

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