Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-29

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In a number of countries, some people think it is necessary to spend large sums of money on constructing new railway lines for very fast trains between cities. Others believe the money should be spent on improving existing public transport.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

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

 

Student answer (Band 8.0)

In many countries, there is disagreement over whether governments should invest heavily in new high-speed railway lines or use the money to improve existing public transport. Although fast intercity trains can provide significant economic and environmental benefits, I believe upgrading current transport systems should generally be the priority.

Supporters of high-speed rail argue that it can dramatically reduce travel times between major cities. This allows people to commute or conduct business more efficiently and may encourage economic activity outside capital cities. Fast trains can also offer a cleaner alternative to domestic flights and private cars, thereby reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions. For example, well-developed high-speed railway networks in countries such as Japan and France enable passengers to travel quickly and comfortably between major urban centres. In the long term, such infrastructure may strengthen regional connections and support national economic growth.

However, others believe public funds should be directed towards existing transport services. Buses, local trains and underground systems are used daily by a much larger proportion of the population. In many cities, these services are overcrowded, unreliable or poorly maintained. Improving their frequency, safety and affordability would therefore produce immediate benefits for ordinary citizens, particularly low-income workers and students. Moreover, constructing high-speed railways requires enormous investment, while tickets may be too expensive for many passengers. The same budget could instead modernise several local transport networks and make them accessible to more communities.

In my opinion, improving existing public transport is the more practical and socially beneficial choice, especially in developing countries where basic services remain inadequate. High-speed rail should only be considered after an efficient and affordable local network has been established.

In conclusion, while very fast trains can promote connectivity and sustainable travel, governments should prioritise existing public transport because it serves more people and addresses their daily needs directly.

**Word count: 292**

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You have clearly presented both sides of the argument regarding high-speed rail versus existing public transport and maintained a consistent, well-supported position throughout. The ideas are well-developed, with relevant examples such as Japan and France for the first perspective, and a logical explanation of the social benefits of local transport for the second. The conclusion effectively synthesises your position, ensuring the reader understands your stance. The response is balanced and demonstrates a high level of task engagement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic sentence, and the transition between the two viewpoints is smooth, facilitated by effective cohesive devices such as 'Although', 'However', and 'Moreover'. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different arguments. The flow of information is natural, and the relationship between ideas is always clear, which makes the text very easy to follow. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary that is used with precision. Phrases such as 'dramatically reduce travel times', 'strengthen regional connections', and 'socially beneficial choice' show a sophisticated command of language. The vocabulary is natural and appropriate for an academic context. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and you successfully incorporate less common items to express complex ideas clearly. The lexical range is more than sufficient for the task requirements.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The writing displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses and accurate use of modal verbs. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is handled correctly throughout. You demonstrate good control over tense and agreement, and there are no significant grammatical slips that impede communication. The variety of structures used contributes to the overall fluency and professional tone of the essay, meeting the criteria for a high band score.

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