Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-09-21

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In the future all cars, buses and trucks will be driverless. The only people travelling inside these vehicles will be passengers.

Do you think the advantages of driverless vehicles outweigh the disadvantages?

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

Student answer (Band 7.5)

The emergence of autonomous vehicles makes a significant transformation in the modern transportation industry, indicating a shift towards a system where cars, buses and trucks can be operated automatically without human drivers. I firmly believe that the advantages of driverless vehicles far outweigh the disadvantages, as they have the potential to enhance safety, reduce traffic congestion and improve overall efficiency in the transport system.

Firstly, safety is paramount in transportation and autonomous vehicles are designed to minimize risks associated with human error. Statistics suggest that approximately 90% of road accidents are attributed to human mistakes, which can lead to devastating consequences. By employing sophisticated sensors and artificial intelligence driverless vehicles can react more rapidly to hazards and adhere strictly to traffic regulations. Consequently, these vehicles promise to significantly reduce the occurrence of accidents and save countless lives.

Moreover, driverless vehicles can contribute positively to environmental sustainability. With the optimization of route planning and driving patterns, these modes of transport are likely to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions. These vehicles can help greatly in managing time efficiently as the customers do not have to wait in long queues. In return, this would encourage the use of public transport as a viable alternative to personal vehicles, further alleviating environmental strain.

In conclusion, while it is important to acknowledge the potential drawbacks of autonomous vehicles, such as technical malfunctions or ethical dilemmas in decision-making algorithms, we should not allow these challenges to hinder progress. The numerous benefits offered by driverless technology - enhanced safety, reduced accidents, and positive environmental impact - present compelling reasons to embrace this innovative advancement in transportation.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of driverless vehicles and presenting a clear, well-supported position throughout. The introduction clearly states the writer's stance that the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages, focusing on safety, traffic congestion, and efficiency. Body paragraphs are well-developed with relevant supporting points, such as the statistic regarding human error and accident reduction, as well as environmental benefits. Although the third body paragraph briefly touches on time management alongside environmental sustainability, the ideas are extended and supported effectively. The conclusion appropriately summarises the main points and acknowledges potential drawbacks like technical malfunctions. This corresponds well to a Band 7.5 to 8.0 level for Task Achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with a strong introduction, followed by well-sequenced body paragraphs addressing safety and environmental impacts, and a concise concluding summary. Cohesive devices such as 'Firstly', 'Moreover', and 'In conclusion' are used appropriately to guide the reader through the argument. Paragraphing is managed effectively, with each paragraph focusing on a separate aspect of the prompt. Referencing and substitution are clear, meaning the flow of ideas is never interrupted. While some cohesive relationships are standard rather than highly sophisticated, the overall structure fully supports the progression of ideas, aligning solidly with Band 7.5 to 8.0 descriptors.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student exhibits a sufficient and flexible range of vocabulary suited to an academic discussion on technology and transport. Phrases such as 'emergence of autonomous vehicles', 'environmental sustainability', 'optimization of route planning', and 'technical malfunctions' demonstrate a good awareness of less common lexical items and collocations. Word choice is generally precise, and errors in spelling or word formation are absent. While the vocabulary is not completely native-like or exceptionally sophisticated throughout, it is more than adequate for Band 7, allowing the writer to convey precise meanings clearly. The use of varied vocabulary effectively supports the tone of an academic essay.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response features a wide variety of complex structures used with good control. Sentences such as 'By employing sophisticated sensors and artificial intelligence driverless vehicles can react more rapidly to hazards...' demonstrate an ability to handle subordinate clauses and participial phrases, though a comma is missing after 'intelligence'. The majority of sentences are grammatically accurate, with only very occasional minor punctuation oversights. The mix of simple and complex sentence forms is handled with confidence, and grammar does not impede communication at any point. This strong control over syntax and low error frequency places the grammar securely in the Band 7.5 to 8.0 range.

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