Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-08-30

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Nowadays many people complain that they have difficulties getting enough sleep. What problems can lack of sleep cause? What can be done about lack of sleep?

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

 

Student answer (Band 8.0)

In modern society, a growing number of people struggle to obtain sufficient sleep. This problem can negatively affect their health, productivity and safety. However, it can be addressed through healthier personal habits and more reasonable working arrangements.

A lack of sleep can cause several serious problems. First, people who regularly sleep for only a few hours may experience poor concentration, irritability and constant tiredness. Consequently, students may find it difficult to understand lessons, while employees are more likely to make mistakes at work. Sleep deprivation can also create safety risks, particularly for people who drive or operate heavy machinery. For example, an exhausted truck driver may react more slowly to danger and cause a road accident. Furthermore, consistently inadequate sleep can weaken a person’s overall well-being and contribute to physical and mental health problems.

Several measures can be taken to improve sleep quality. At an individual level, people should establish a regular bedtime routine and avoid using mobile phones or computers shortly before going to bed. The blue light and stimulating content from these devices can make it harder to relax. People should also limit caffeine in the evening, exercise regularly and create a quiet, comfortable sleeping environment. At the workplace level, employers should avoid requiring excessive overtime and provide fair schedules, especially for night-shift workers. Governments and healthcare organizations could also run educational campaigns explaining the importance of sleep. If a person continues to experience severe sleeping difficulties despite changing their habits, they should consult a qualified healthcare professional.

In conclusion, inadequate sleep can damage people’s health, reduce their academic or professional performance and increase the likelihood of accidents. Nevertheless, maintaining healthy routines, reducing screen use and introducing more balanced work schedules can significantly alleviate this widespread problem.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You have clearly identified the problems associated with sleep deprivation, such as cognitive impairment and safety risks, and provided practical solutions at both the individual and systemic levels. The ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the truck driver scenario. The position is clear throughout, and the structure is logical, ensuring that the reader is guided through your arguments effectively. The response is balanced and meets all requirements of the prompt.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the problems and solutions is seamless. You use a range of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Consequently', 'Furthermore', and 'Nevertheless', which help to connect your points. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. The flow of information is natural, and there is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive phrasing, making the text easy to follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for the topic. Phrases like 'cognitive impairment' (implied by 'poor concentration'), 'systemic levels', and 'alleviate this widespread problem' show a level of sophistication. While the vocabulary is accurate and fits the context well, it could be slightly more ambitious to reach the highest band. However, the current usage is precise, and there are no errors in word choice or collocation that impede communication or distract the reader.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures. You successfully use complex sentences, such as conditional clauses ('If a person continues to experience...') and participial phrases, with high accuracy. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation is excellent. There are no significant grammatical slips, and the variety of sentence forms contributes to a fluent and professional tone. The grammar is consistently accurate throughout the piece.

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