Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Barron's Writing · 2026-09-29

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)

Introduction

In recent years, the rapid proliferation of smartphones has sparked intense debate regarding road safety. It is widely argued that operating a mobile phone while behind the wheel presents significant cognitive and visual hazards, justifying a complete legal ban. I fully agree with this view, as distraction severely compromises reaction time, and modern alternative safety tech (such as hands-free tools) does not completely eliminate the danger.

Body Paragraph 1: The Core Danger of Distracted Driving

First and foremost, using a phone while driving splits a motorist’s attention, drastically impairing their ability to respond to immediate road conditions. Driving requires constant sensory evaluation, rapid decision-making, and precise physical coordination. When a driver checks a text message or answers a call, their focus is diverted from the road ahead. Research continuously shows that even a momentary lapse in concentration can lead to delayed braking and fatal collisions, particularly in high-density traffic or unpredictable weather conditions. Making this practice illegal establishes a clear standard and deters drivers from making choices that put others at risk.

Body Paragraph 2: Inadequacy of Hands-Free Alternatives & Enforcement

Furthermore, even hands-free devices—often viewed as a safe alternative—impose a significant cognitive load on the driver. While keeping both hands on the wheel helps with physical vehicle control, engaged voice conversations still draw mental focus away from spatial awareness and hazard detection. Since drivers frequently overestimate their multi-tasking capabilities, legal prohibition is the most effective policy tool to alter public behavior. Strict enforcement, accompanied by steep penalties and license points, creates a powerful deterrent that significantly reduces accident rates globally.

Conclusion

In conclusion, operating a mobile device while navigating a vehicle poses an unequivocal threat to public safety due to cognitive distraction. Imposing a comprehensive legal ban on cell phone use for drivers is a necessary and proportionate measure to protect human lives and promote safer road environments.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The student fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear and well-developed position throughout the essay. In the introduction, the writer explicitly states, 'I fully agree with this view,' and maintains this stance with well-supported arguments in the body paragraphs. Body Paragraph 1 effectively explores the core dangers of cognitive distraction, citing delayed braking and fatal collisions, while Body Paragraph 2 thoughtfully addresses the inadequacy of hands-free alternatives and the necessity of legal enforcement. Ideas are extended with relevant examples and logical reasoning, meeting the criteria for a high band. There are no omissions, and the task is answered comprehensively.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay displays a clear logical organization and progression from introduction to conclusion. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each body paragraph focusing on a distinct, well-managed theme (core dangers versus hands-free inadequacy). Cohesive devices such as 'First and foremost,' 'Furthermore,' and 'In conclusion' are employed effectively to guide the reader through the argument. Referencing is clear throughout, and the progression of ideas is smooth, satisfying the requirements for a strong performance in coherence and cohesion.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.5

The student demonstrates a wide, fluent, and flexible range of vocabulary appropriate for an IELTS General Training Task 2 essay. Less common lexical items are used skillfully and with good awareness of collocation, such as 'rapid proliferation,' 'cognitive and visual hazards,' 'sensory evaluation,' and 'unequivocal threat.' Word choices are precise, and there are only occasional minor inaccuracies or slips, easily placing the response in the upper bands for lexical resource.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The writer utilizes a wide range of complex grammatical structures with a high degree of accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free, featuring sophisticated constructions such as participial phrases ('justifying a complete legal ban') and conditional clauses. Punctuation and sentence boundaries are handled correctly, demonstrating excellent control over grammar. While there are very occasional minor slips, they do not impede communication in any way, reflecting the descriptor for an 8.0 band score.

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