Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-09-01

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, there has been a growing fascination among individuals in various countries with uncovering the historical background of their residences, whether houses or apartments. This curiosity drives them to explore a range of documents, including old newspapers, government records, and local histories, in an effort to piece together the story of their dwelling and its surroundings.

Several factors contribute to this escalating trend. For some, this pursuit is merely a pastime that brings them joy and a sense of connection to the past. Conversely, others consider it essential to ascertain specific details such as construction dates, past ownership, and rental agreements. Although not mandatory, tracing a property's history can be crucial for safety reasons; for instance, understanding the structural integrity of a building is vital to avoid potential hazards. Furthermore, historical records are indispensable for planning timely restoration or renovation works, ensuring that the property remains in good condition over the years.

Beyond practical considerations, there is a deeper cultural motivation. Many individuals view old houses and buildings as tangible links to their heritage and ancestral roots. Preserving and restoring these structures is seen as a way to honor the lives and traditions of previous generations, adding a layer of emotional significance to the research.

When it comes to conducting such research, people have access to a wide array of resources. Official government archives, historical books, and documentary films offer detailed insights, while the internet provides convenient platforms like Wikipedia and historical map services, such as old versions of Google Maps, which can visually illustrate changes over time.

In conclusion, the growing interest in researching residential history stems from a combination of safety concerns, a desire to preserve cultural heritage, and sheer curiosity. With the abundance of available resources, from traditional archives to digital tools, individuals are well-equipped to satisfy this quest for knowledge.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses both parts of the prompt: the reasons for the interest in building history and the methods for researching it. The ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as safety concerns regarding structural integrity and the emotional connection to ancestral roots. The position is clear throughout, and the essay maintains a consistent focus on the topic. The arguments are logical and demonstrate a good understanding of the task requirements. The response is balanced, with sufficient detail provided for each section, meeting the criteria for a high band score by providing a comprehensive and well-structured answer.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. The use of cohesive devices, such as 'Furthermore', 'Beyond practical considerations', and 'When it comes to', is effective and natural. The referencing is clear, and the paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the reasons from the research methods. The overall structure is coherent, and the information flows logically from the introduction to the conclusion, ensuring that the reader can easily follow the writer's line of reasoning throughout the response.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The vocabulary is precise and varied, demonstrating a good command of language. Phrases like 'escalating trend', 'tangible links', 'ancestral roots', and 'indispensable' show a sophisticated range. The writer uses collocations accurately and maintains a formal, academic tone throughout. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or spelling. The range of vocabulary is sufficient to convey complex ideas with precision, and the use of topic-specific terminology related to history and architecture is well-integrated, contributing to the overall clarity and professional quality of the writing.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and varied clause types. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over punctuation and syntax is excellent. The writer uses a mix of simple and complex forms effectively to maintain interest and clarity. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. The accuracy is high, and the sentence structures are sophisticated, reflecting a strong command of English grammar. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a high level of grammatical competence throughout the entire piece.

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