Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-23

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 8.0)

In many countries, supermarkets now offer consumers food products imported from virtually every corner of the world. Although this trend may have some negative consequences, I believe it is overwhelmingly a positive development because it gives people greater choice and promotes cultural exchange.

The most significant advantage is the unprecedented variety of food available to consumers. In the past, people were largely dependent on locally produced food, whereas international supply chains now allow them to purchase products that would otherwise be unavailable in their country. For example, supermarkets in countries such as the United Kingdom and Australia routinely stock Asian spices, South American fruits and European cheeses. This variety enables consumers to explore different cuisines and accommodate diverse dietary preferences without having to travel abroad. It can also encourage healthier eating when imported products provide access to nutritious foods that are unavailable or out of season locally.

Another important benefit is that the global food trade can strengthen economic and cultural connections between countries. Farmers and food producers in developing nations can gain access to lucrative international markets, potentially increasing their incomes and creating employment in rural communities. At the same time, consumers become more familiar with the traditions and cuisines of other cultures. Food therefore acts as a form of cultural exchange, helping people develop a broader understanding of societies beyond their own.

Admittedly, the widespread transportation of food over long distances can increase carbon emissions, while an excessive dependence on imported products may weaken domestic agriculture. These are legitimate concerns, particularly when food is flown across continents despite equivalent local alternatives being available. Nevertheless, such problems can be mitigated through responsible consumer choices, improved transport efficiency and policies that support sustainable local production alongside international trade.

In conclusion, although the global availability of food can create environmental pressures and challenges for domestic producers, I consider it a strongly positive development overall. The greater variety and convenience available to consumers, together with the economic and cultural benefits of international trade, outweigh its disadvantages.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly state your position in the introduction and maintain it consistently throughout the essay. Each paragraph is well-developed with relevant examples, such as the mention of specific food items in the UK and Australia, and the economic benefits for developing nations. You also demonstrate a balanced approach by acknowledging the negative environmental and agricultural impacts in the fourth paragraph before refuting them with potential solutions. This demonstrates a sophisticated level of critical thinking and task fulfillment, meeting the criteria for a high band score.

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 and natural. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Although this trend', 'At the same time', and 'Nevertheless', which help guide the reader through your argument. The paragraphing is logical and contributes to the overall clarity of the response. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive usage, and the structure supports the development of your argument perfectly.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which is used with precision and natural control. Phrases like 'unprecedented variety', 'lucrative international markets', and 'mitigated through responsible consumer choices' show a high level of lexical sophistication. You use less common items appropriately and demonstrate a strong grasp of collocation. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or spelling, and the vocabulary is consistently appropriate for an academic context, contributing to the overall fluency of the essay.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of complex grammatical structures, including conditional sentences, relative clauses, and passive constructions, all used with high accuracy. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the few complex structures used are handled with great control. Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and there are no slips that impede communication. The control over sentence variety—mixing simple, compound, and complex sentences—is excellent and maintains the reader's interest while ensuring clarity.

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