Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Barron's Writing · 2026-08-24

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Using a cell phone while driving is dangerous because it causes the driver to become distracted. Therefore, cell phone use by drivers should be made illegal.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

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

Student answer (Band 7.5)

Using a cell phone while driving is one of the most dangerous habits on the road today. It can distract drivers, reduce their concentration, and increase the risk of accidents. Therefore, I strongly agree that using a hand-held cell phone while driving should be illegal.

The main reason is that driving requires complete attention. When drivers read a message, answer a call, or check social media, their focus moves away from the road. Even a few seconds of distraction can be enough to cause a serious accident. For example, a driver may fail to notice a red light, a pedestrian crossing the street, or another vehicle stopping suddenly. Such mistakes can result in injuries, property damage, or even death.

Another reason is that strict laws can encourage safer driving habits. If drivers know that they may receive a heavy fine, lose licence points, or face other penalties, they are less likely to use their phones. This can make roads safer for drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Some people argue that phones are useful for navigation or emergencies. I agree that they can be helpful, but they should be used safely. Drivers can set their GPS before starting the journey or pull over to a safe place before making a call or sending a message. Most importantly, no phone call or text message is worth risking the safety and lives of other people.

In conclusion, I completely support making hand-held cell phone use while driving illegal. It reduces distraction, prevents accidents, encourages responsible behaviour, and protects everyone who uses the road.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You have taken a clear position from the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct argument—the danger of distraction and the effectiveness of legal deterrents. You also effectively address the counter-argument regarding navigation, providing a balanced perspective before reinforcing your main point. The supporting examples, such as failing to notice a red light or a pedestrian, are relevant and clearly illustrate your points. The conclusion effectively synthesizes your arguments, leaving no doubt about your stance.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. You use cohesive devices such as 'The main reason is', 'Another reason is', and 'In conclusion' effectively to guide the reader. Referencing is clear, and the use of linking words is natural rather than mechanical. The paragraphing is appropriate, with each section serving a distinct purpose in the overall argument structure. The flow of information is consistent and easy to follow throughout the response.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Phrases like 'reduce their concentration', 'strict laws', and 'responsible behaviour' are used accurately. While the vocabulary is functional and clear, it lacks some of the more sophisticated or idiomatic collocations that would push the score into the 8.0+ range. However, there are no errors in word choice that impede communication, and the language used is appropriate for the formal tone required in an IELTS essay. You successfully avoid repetition by using varied synonyms for 'cell phone' and 'driving'.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response shows a good command of grammatical structures. You use a mix of simple and complex sentences effectively, such as the conditional structure 'If drivers know that they may receive a heavy fine... they are less likely to use their phones'. Punctuation is used correctly to separate clauses and list items. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the few minor slips do not interfere with the clarity of your message. You demonstrate consistent control over tense and subject-verb agreement throughout the text, which is a hallmark of a strong performance in this criterion.

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