Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Barron's Writing · 2026-09-17

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people say that the best way to discourage smoking is to make smoking illegal in public places. Other people say that this is not enough and that other measures are needed.

Discuss both these views, and give your opinion.

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

Student answer (Band 7.0)

Some people believe that making smoking illegal in public places is the most effective way to discourage people from smoking, while others argue that additional measures are necessary. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe a combination of different approaches is more effective.

On the one hand, banning smoking in public places can significantly discourage people from smoking. Public places such as restaurants, parks, public transport areas, and workplaces are used by many people, including children and non-smokers. A smoking ban can protect these people from second-hand smoke and also reduce the visibility of smoking in everyday life. In addition, smokers may find it less convenient to smoke if they have to leave public areas. For example, workplace smoking restrictions may encourage some employees to reduce the number of cigarettes they smoke during the day.

On the other hand, simply banning smoking in public places may not be enough to help people quit. Smoking is an addictive habit, so some smokers may continue smoking in private places even when public restrictions are introduced. Therefore, governments could use other measures, such as public education campaigns, warnings on cigarette packaging, higher tobacco taxes, and support programs for people who want to quit. These measures can address both the health risks and the reasons why people continue smoking.

In my opinion, banning smoking in public places is an important step, but it should not be used as the only solution. A combination of legal restrictions, education, taxation, and support for quitting would be more comprehensive. For instance, people may be more willing to stop smoking when they understand its health consequences and have access to appropriate support.

In conclusion, banning smoking in public areas can protect the public and discourage smoking, but additional measures are needed to address tobacco addiction effectively. Governments should therefore use several strategies together rather than relying on a single measure.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The student has successfully addressed all parts of the task. Both views—making smoking illegal in public places versus requiring additional measures—are clearly discussed and supported with relevant explanations and examples, such as workplace smoking restrictions and public education campaigns. Furthermore, the writer presents a clear position throughout the essay, arguing that a combination of approaches is necessary. The ideas are well-developed and extended logically, satisfying the requirements for a Band 7.0 or higher. The response demonstrates a clear understanding of the prompt and maintains a focused perspective from introduction to conclusion.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are coherently linked, starting with a clear introductory paragraph, followed by well-defined body paragraphs discussing each view, the writer's opinion, and a concluding summary. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Therefore', and 'For instance' are used appropriately to guide the reader through the arguments. Paragraphing is managed effectively, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct aspect of the prompt. While some cohesive relationships could be slightly more sophisticated to reach the highest bands, the current level easily secures a Band 7.0.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary for the task, allowing for some flexibility and precision with terms like 'second-hand smoke', 'addictive habit', 'comprehensive', and 'visibility of smoking'. Less common lexical items are attempted with a good awareness of style and collocation, such as 'public education campaigns' and 'support programs'. While the vocabulary is generally precise and appropriate, it lacks the broader, highly sophisticated flexibility and idiomatic control characteristic of a Band 8.0. However, spelling and word choice are accurate, ensuring smooth communication throughout.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The writer uses a good variety of complex sentence structures alongside simple forms, demonstrating solid control over grammar and punctuation. Examples include conditional and participial constructions like 'if they have to leave public areas' and 'while others argue that additional measures are necessary'. The majority of sentences are error-free, and any minor grammatical slips are completely absent. Punctuation is accurate throughout the essay. The command of grammar is strong and consistent, matching the descriptors for Band 7.0 comfortably, as complex structures are attempted and used with frequent error-free sentences.

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