Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-15
IELTS Writing Task 2 question
In many countries nowadays, consumers can go to a supermarket and buy food produced all over the world.
Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Student answer (Band 7.5)
In contemporary society, it has become increasingly common for consumers to purchase imported international produce from local supermarkets. I firmly believe that this is a highly positive development, as it not only provides populations with access to vital, high-quality nutrition but also significantly stimulates national economies through global trade.
The primary advantage of importing food is the remarkable improvement in public health and dietary diversity. Many regions, due to their geographical or climatic limitations, cannot cultivate certain vitamin-rich foods year-round. By importing produce, supermarkets can offer items like tropical avocados or citrus fruits to consumers in colder climates, directly preventing nutritional deficiencies. Admittedly, critics rightly point out that the "food miles" required to transport these goods across the globe generate carbon emissions that harm the environment. However, this ecological cost is outweighed by the profound public health benefits. Eradicating malnutrition and ensuring that citizens have access to a balanced, immune-boosting diet is a fundamental priority that justifies this international exchange.
Furthermore, the global food market serves as a powerful catalyst for a nation’s economic stability. The process of importing agricultural products goes far beyond simply buying cheap and selling high; it creates a robust, multi-layered supply chain. This industry generates widespread employment in logistics, warehousing, and retail. Additionally, governments collect substantial revenue through import tariffs, port fees, and sales taxes. For instance, establishing trade agreements for foreign beef or specialized grains not only keeps local supermarkets profitable but consistently injects foreign capital into the domestic market, ultimately strengthening the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
In conclusion, while the environmental footprint of transporting goods across the world is a valid concern, the overall trend is overwhelmingly beneficial. The widespread availability of global food in supermarkets plays an indispensable role in maintaining societal health while simultaneously acting as a pillar for national economic growth.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 8.0 |
| Overall | 7.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5
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 regarding public health and economic stability are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the mention of tropical produce and the specific economic sectors involved in global trade. You also acknowledge the counter-argument regarding environmental impact, which demonstrates a balanced approach. The response is well-structured, and the arguments are logically extended, meeting the criteria for a high band score.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the health benefits and economic advantages is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Furthermore', 'Admittedly', and 'In conclusion', which help guide the reader through your argument. The paragraphing is appropriate, with each section serving a distinct purpose in the overall structure of the response. The flow of information is natural and easy to follow throughout.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.5
You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which allows for precise expression. Phrases such as 'contemporary society', 'climatic limitations', 'nutritional deficiencies', and 'catalyst for a nation’s economic stability' show a sophisticated command of language. The word choices are accurate and appropriate for an academic context. There are no noticeable errors in collocation or word choice, and the vocabulary is used naturally to convey complex ideas. This level of lexical control is consistent with a high band score.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0
The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures with high accuracy. You successfully use complex sentence forms, such as conditional structures and subordinate clauses, without errors. For example, 'Many regions, due to their geographical or climatic limitations, cannot cultivate certain vitamin-rich foods year-round' is a well-constructed sentence. Punctuation is used correctly to enhance clarity. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the few complex structures used are handled with precision. There are no significant grammatical slips that impede communication.
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