Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-09-15

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)

Nowadays, some countries have a considerably higher proportion of young adults than elderly people. While a predominantly young population can offer certain economic and social benefits, I would argue that the disadvantages are more substantial, particularly in terms of employment opportunities and pressure on public infrastructure.

One significant advantage of having a large young population is the availability of a productive workforce. Young adults are generally more physically active, adaptable and willing to acquire new skills, which can enable businesses to expand and increase national productivity. Furthermore, younger generations tend to be more receptive to technological innovations and are often responsible for developing new ideas, businesses and digital solutions. Consequently, countries with a youthful population may benefit from greater economic dynamism and technological progress.

Nevertheless, I believe that these advantages can be outweighed by several serious drawbacks. The most pressing concern is the potential shortage of employment opportunities. If the number of young people entering the labour market grows faster than the number of jobs available, unemployment and underemployment may become widespread. This can result in financial insecurity, frustration and even social instability. In addition, a rapidly expanding young population can place considerable strain on public services. Governments may need to invest heavily in schools, universities, healthcare, housing and public transport to meet increasing demand. In developing countries in particular, insufficient investment in these areas could significantly reduce people's quality of life.

In conclusion, although a large young population can provide a country with a productive workforce and encourage technological and economic development, I believe that the potential disadvantages are greater. Unless governments can create sufficient employment opportunities and expand essential public services, the challenges associated with a predominantly young population are likely to outweigh its benefits.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of a population with a large proportion of young adults and presenting a clear, well-supported position. In the introduction, the writer establishes a clear stance: while economic and social benefits exist, the disadvantages are more substantial. Body paragraph 1 explores valid advantages, such as a productive workforce, adaptability, and technological innovation. Body paragraph 2 examines compelling drawbacks, including potential unemployment and strain on public infrastructure like schools and healthcare. The conclusion neatly synthesises these points and reaffirms the central thesis. Ideas are thoroughly developed and supported with relevant explanations rather than unsupported assertions. The response meets all the requirements of Band 7 and exhibits many qualities of Band 8.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from the introduction to the advantages, the disadvantages, and a well-synthesised conclusion. Cohesive devices are used naturally and effectively to guide the reader through the argument, as seen with transition words like 'Furthermore', 'Consequently', 'Nevertheless', and 'In addition'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, separating the distinct themes of economic benefits and social drawbacks cleanly. Referencing throughout the text is clear, ensuring that pronouns and demonstratives point unambiguously to their antecedents. The overall structural management of the essay is strong and facilitates effortless reading, comfortably aligning with Band 8 descriptors.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The writer demonstrates a sufficient and flexible range of vocabulary suitable for an academic discussion. Less common and precise lexical items are used effectively throughout the text, such as 'predominantly young population', 'economic dynamism', 'potential shortage', 'underemployment', and 'financial insecurity'. Word choice and collocations are generally accurate and natural, as seen in expressions like 'place considerable strain on public services' and 'enter the labour market'. While there are no major lexical errors that impede communication, the vocabulary sits comfortably at Band 7 because it occasionally relies on standard academic collocations rather than truly sophisticated or uncommon idioms and stylistic choices, which are characteristic of higher bands.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The student displays a strong command of grammatical structures, using a wide variety of complex sentences with frequent error-free constructions. Examples of sophisticated syntax include concessive clauses ('While a predominantly young population can offer certain economic and social benefits, I would argue...') and conditional structures ('Unless governments can create sufficient employment opportunities...'). Control of punctuation and agreement is consistently high throughout the response. Minor slips or awkward turns of phrase are virtually absent, and the majority of sentences are grammatically pristine. This level of accuracy and structural flexibility fully satisfies the criteria for Band 8.

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