Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-31

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

At the present time, the population of some countries includes a relatively large number of young adults, compared with the number of older people.

Do the advantages of this situation outweigh the disadvantages?

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

Student answer (Band 7.0)

At present, some countries have a relatively high number of young adults compared with older people. Although this situation can create some problems, I believe that the advantages are greater because a young population can support economic growth and bring new ideas to society.

One major advantage of having a large young population is that there are more people available to work. Young adults are generally able to work for many years and can contribute to the economy through their jobs and taxes. They can also help businesses grow because there is a large workforce and a greater number of consumers. For example, countries with a young population can develop quickly when young people receive good education and find suitable employment. In addition, young people are often more willing to learn new skills and use modern technology.

However, there are also some disadvantages. The biggest problem is that governments need to provide enough jobs, education and other services for a large number of young people. If there are not enough employment opportunities, unemployment can increase, which may lead to poverty and social problems. Another issue is that young adults may put pressure on housing and public transport, especially in large cities. For instance, if many young people move to cities to find work, housing prices and traffic congestion may increase.

In conclusion, a country with a large young population may face difficulties such as unemployment and pressure on public services. Nevertheless, I believe the advantages outweigh the disadvantages because young adults can provide a strong workforce, increase economic activity and contribute new ideas to society.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, providing a clear position that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. The ideas are relevant and logically developed. For instance, the argument regarding economic growth through a larger workforce is well-supported by the mention of tax contributions and consumer demand. The counter-arguments regarding unemployment and infrastructure pressure are also clearly articulated. To reach a higher band, the student could provide more specific, real-world examples (e.g., mentioning a specific country or a concrete policy) to further extend the development of the ideas, rather than relying on general statements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central topic sentence, such as 'One major advantage of having a large young population...' and 'However, there are also some disadvantages.' Cohesive devices like 'In addition,' 'For instance,' and 'Nevertheless' are used effectively to guide the reader through the argument. The progression of ideas is smooth and easy to follow. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the overall structure supports the development of the argument well.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary used is sufficient and appropriate for the task. The student employs terms like 'economic growth,' 'workforce,' 'employment opportunities,' and 'traffic congestion' accurately. While the range is adequate, it is somewhat functional rather than sophisticated. To achieve a higher band, the student should aim to incorporate more precise, less common lexical items or collocations (e.g., 'demographic dividend' or 'strained infrastructure'). There are no significant errors in word choice or spelling that impede communication, demonstrating a solid command of general vocabulary.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The essay demonstrates a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. For example, the use of conditional sentences ('If there are not enough employment opportunities...') and complex sentences with subordinate clauses ('Although this situation can create some problems, I believe...') shows a good grasp of grammar. The sentences are generally error-free, and punctuation is used correctly throughout. While the range of structures is solid, it could be further enhanced by incorporating more varied grammatical forms, such as passive voice or inversion, to demonstrate greater flexibility.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.