Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · Recent IELTS Exams (Canada & India) · 2026-07-28

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people believe that old buildings, such as town halls and art galleries, should be restored, even though this can be costly. Others argue that governments should replace them with new, modern buildings.

Discuss both 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 8.5)

The debate surrounding the restoration of old buildings versus the construction of new, modern structures is a complex one, with valid arguments on both sides.

On one hand, proponents of restoring old buildings argue that these structures hold significant historical and cultural value. Town halls and art galleries often embody the architectural styles and craftsmanship of their time, serving as a tangible connection to the past. Restoring these buildings can preserve local heritage and foster a sense of community identity. For example, many cities have successfully revitalized their historic districts, attracting tourists and boosting local economies. The restoration of the historic town hall in a small town can not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also serve as a venue for community events, thereby strengthening social ties.

Conversely, those in favor of replacing old buildings with modern ones argue that new constructions can better meet contemporary needs. Modern buildings often incorporate advanced technology, energy efficiency, and accessibility features that older structures may lack. For instance, a new art gallery designed with sustainable materials and innovative exhibition spaces can provide a more functional environment for both artists and visitors. Additionally, the costs associated with restoring old buildings can be substantial, leading some to question whether those funds might be better spent on new developments that serve the community's current demands.

In my opinion, a balanced approach is essential. While it is important to preserve historical buildings that contribute to our cultural heritage, we must also recognize the need for modern facilities that cater to today’s society. Governments should assess the historical significance of each building on a case-by-case basis, considering factors such as community sentiment, potential for restoration, and the economic implications of both options.

For example, a town hall that has been a central part of the community for generations may warrant restoration, while a less significant structure could be replaced with a modern facility. Ultimately, the decision should reflect a commitment to honoring the past while embracing the future, ensuring that both historical preservation and modern development can coexist harmoniously.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly discussed both perspectives—the value of historical preservation and the benefits of modern, functional architecture—and provided a well-reasoned personal opinion. Your ideas are extended and supported with relevant examples, such as the mention of revitalized historic districts and the functional advantages of modern art galleries. The position is consistent throughout the essay, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes the two viewpoints by suggesting a case-by-case approach. The development is logical and thorough, meeting the requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the two opposing views and your own opinion is smooth. You make effective use of cohesive devices such as 'On one hand,' 'Conversely,' and 'Ultimately,' which guide the reader through your argument without being repetitive. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. The flow of information is natural, and the relationship between sentences is clear, demonstrating a high level of control over the structure of the essay.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary that is well-suited to the topic. Phrases such as 'tangible connection to the past,' 'foster a sense of community identity,' and 'cater to today’s society' show a sophisticated command of language. The word choices are precise and contribute to the academic tone of the response. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and you successfully use less common lexical items to convey your ideas with clarity and nuance. The vocabulary is consistently accurate and natural throughout the text.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures with high accuracy. You effectively use complex sentence forms, such as conditional clauses and participial phrases (e.g., '...serving as a tangible connection to the past,' '...ensuring that both historical preservation and modern development can coexist harmoniously'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense consistency is excellent. There are no significant grammatical slips that impede communication, and the variety of sentence types keeps the writing engaging and professional. Your control over complex grammar is highly developed.

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