Band 9.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 9.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-07-24

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

It is better to buy just a few expensive clothes, rather than lots of cheaper clothes.

Do you agree or disagree?

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

Student answer (Band 9.0)

In today’s consumer-driven society, people are often faced with the choice between purchasing a few high-quality garments or buying a larger quantity of cheaper clothing. I strongly agree that investing in a limited number of expensive clothes is a more sensible and beneficial approach.

Firstly, high-quality clothing tends to be far more durable than cheaper alternatives. Expensive garments are usually made from superior materials and are crafted with greater attention to detail, which ensures they last significantly longer. As a result, although the initial cost may be higher, they prove to be more cost-effective in the long run. For instance, a well-made winter coat can last for several years, whereas a cheaper one may need to be replaced every season.

Secondly, buying fewer but better-quality items promotes sustainability and reduces environmental harm. The fast fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to pollution, largely due to the mass production and disposal of low-cost clothing. By choosing durable pieces, consumers can minimize waste and lessen their environmental footprint. This is particularly important in an era where environmental conservation is becoming increasingly urgent.

Moreover, expensive clothes often offer better comfort and fit, which enhances confidence and overall appearance. High-end brands typically focus on design, tailoring, and fabric quality, ensuring that the wearer feels comfortable and looks presentable. In contrast, cheaper clothes may lose shape or color after a few washes, reducing their usability and appeal.

Admittedly, purchasing expensive clothing may not be affordable for everyone, especially those with limited financial resources. However, even in such cases, prioritizing quality over quantity whenever possible is still a wiser decision.

In conclusion, while cheaper clothing may seem attractive in the short term, investing in a few high-quality items is more economical, environmentally friendly, and beneficial in terms of comfort and appearance.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 9.0

The response fully addresses the prompt by taking a clear position and supporting it with three distinct, well-developed arguments: durability, environmental impact, and personal comfort. Each paragraph introduces a logical point, such as the cost-effectiveness of high-quality items versus the environmental damage caused by fast fashion. The ideas are extended with relevant examples, such as the comparison between a durable winter coat and cheaper alternatives. The counter-argument is acknowledged and effectively refuted, demonstrating a balanced and mature approach to the task. The position is consistent throughout the essay, meeting all requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 9.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The progression of ideas is smooth, moving logically from economic benefits to environmental concerns and finally to personal comfort. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'Firstly', 'Secondly', 'Moreover', and 'In contrast', which guide the reader through the argument without being repetitive or mechanical. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a single, central theme. The referencing is clear, and the flow between sentences is seamless throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.5

The vocabulary is precise and well-suited to the topic. The student uses a range of sophisticated collocations and topic-specific terminology, such as 'consumer-driven society', 'cost-effective', 'environmental footprint', and 'fast fashion industry'. The language is natural and demonstrates a high level of control. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or spelling. The student successfully uses less common lexical items to convey nuanced meaning, which contributes to the overall clarity and professional tone of the writing.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 9.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses and varied sentence beginnings. The grammar is highly accurate, with almost no errors. Punctuation is used correctly to enhance readability. The control over verb tenses and modal verbs is consistent, and the sentence construction is varied, which keeps the reader engaged. The writing is error-free, reflecting a high level of grammatical competence that allows for clear and sophisticated expression of ideas.

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