Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Barron's Writing · 2026-09-27

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 7.0)

Using a mobile phone while driving is extremely unsafe due to the fact that it distracts drivers and reduces their concentration on the road. Consequently, some people believe that use of smartphone by drivers should be banned. I strongly agree with the statement because distracted driving can lead to serious road accidents and it not only put drivers' lives at risk but also other road users.

The primary reason that cell phones should be prohibited by law while driving is because it diverts drivers and diminishes their concentration on the road. When motorists answer calls, read messages, or check social media, they may lose concentration on their surroundings. As a result, they may fail to notice traffic signals, pedestrians, or vehicles suddenly stopping in front of them. Even a few seconds of distraction can increase the possibility of a collision. For example, a driver who looks at a text message may not notice a pedestrian crossing the road and could cause a serious accident. Therefore, banning mobile phone use while driving can significantly improve road safety.

Another important reason is that distracted driving puts innocent road users at risk. A careless driver may cause an accident involving pedestrians, cyclists, passengers, or other motorists who are following traffic regulations. In addition, using a phone can reduce a driver’s ability to react quickly in an emergency. For instance, if a vehicle suddenly changes lanes or stops unexpectedly, a distracted driver may not have sufficient time to respond appropriately. Therefore, strict laws against mobile phone use can encourage motorists to remain focused and responsible while driving.

In conclusion, I strongly believe that using mobile phones while driving should be illegal because it reduces drivers’ concentration and increases the risk of serious accidents. Such restrictions can protect drivers as well as other road users and create a safer environment for everyone.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.0

The student fully addresses all parts of the task by presenting a clear position agreeing with the statement and supporting it with logical reasons and relevant examples. In the introduction, the writer states, 'I strongly agree with the statement because distracted driving can lead to serious road accidents.' This position is maintained consistently throughout the essay. Body paragraph one explores the reduction of concentration and includes a specific example regarding a driver failing to notice a pedestrian, while body paragraph two examines the risk posed to innocent road users. The ideas are well developed and extended appropriately. Therefore, the response meets all the requirements for Band 7.0 under Task Achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.0

The essay demonstrates clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, starting with the introduction, followed by two well-structured body paragraphs focusing on distinct reasons, and a concise conclusion. The writer uses cohesive devices effectively to connect ideas, such as 'Consequently', 'As a result', 'For example', and 'In addition'. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate different arguments. Although some cohesive ties are standard, the progression of ideas is smooth and easy to follow. This performance aligns well with the Band 7.0 descriptors for Coherence and Cohesion.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.0

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision, suitable for a general task. Examples of appropriate lexical items include 'distracted driving', 'diminishes their concentration', 'surroundings', and 'traffic signals'. The writer also attempts less common vocabulary such as 'prohibited', 'collision', and 'appropriate'. There are occasional slight inaccuracies in collocation or phrasing, such as 'it not only put drivers' lives at risk' (where grammar and collocation slightly overlap, but vocabulary remains adequate). Spelling and word choice errors are rare and do not impede communication, placing this securely at Band 7.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.0

The writer demonstrates a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences. Examples of complex structures include 'Using a mobile phone while driving is extremely unsafe due to the fact that it distracts drivers...' and 'When motorists answer calls, read messages, or check social media, they may lose concentration on their surroundings.' There is good control of punctuation and grammar, with frequent error-free sentences. A minor grammatical slip occurs in the introduction ('it not only put drivers' lives at risk'), but overall grammatical control is strong. This corresponds to a Band 7.0 rating for Grammatical Range and Accuracy.

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