Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-09-23

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 7.0)

Driverless vehicles are becoming increasingly realistic because of developments in artificial intelligence and automation. Although this technology may create some serious challenges, I believe that its advantages will outweigh its disadvantages, particularly in terms of safety, convenience and efficiency.

One major advantage of driverless vehicles is that they could significantly reduce road accidents. At present, many accidents are caused by human errors such as speeding, fatigue, distraction and driving under the influence of alcohol. Autonomous vehicles, by contrast, can continuously monitor their surroundings and react much faster than humans in many situations. For example, a driverless car could automatically brake when a pedestrian suddenly enters the road. In addition, these vehicles could make travelling more convenient for elderly people, disabled individuals and those who are unable to drive.

Another important benefit is greater efficiency in transportation. Autonomous buses and trucks could operate for longer periods without drivers and could potentially optimise their routes according to traffic conditions. This could reduce travel times and transportation costs. Furthermore, if driverless vehicles become widespread, they may communicate with one another and with traffic systems, helping to reduce congestion and fuel consumption.

However, there are also disadvantages. The most significant concern is the potential loss of employment for professional drivers, including taxi, bus and truck drivers. Millions of people could be affected if autonomous technology replaces these jobs. Another issue is safety in situations that artificial intelligence may not handle perfectly, such as extreme weather, unusual road conditions or unexpected human behaviour. There is also the risk of technical failures or cyberattacks.

In conclusion, driverless vehicles could cause job displacement and create new technological and safety risks. Nevertheless, their potential to reduce accidents, improve accessibility and make transportation more efficient means that, overall, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.0

The student addresses all parts of the task thoroughly and presents a clear position throughout the essay. The introduction establishes a clear standpoint, stating that the advantages of driverless vehicles outweigh the disadvantages. Body paragraphs one and two present well-developed arguments supporting this position, focusing on safety, accessibility, and efficiency, complete with relevant examples such as pedestrian detection and traffic optimisation. The opposing view is equally well-considered in the fourth paragraph, addressing job displacement and safety risks. Ideas are extended and supported effectively, showing good depth of thought without veering off-topic. This aligns closely with the Band 7 and Band 8 descriptors for task response, showcasing a well-sustained argument.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from the introduction to supporting points, counter-arguments, and a balanced conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'In addition', 'Another important benefit', 'Furthermore', and 'However', which guide the reader seamlessly through the writer's line of reasoning. Paragraphing is managed appropriately and logically divides the different facets of the prompt. Referencing is clear throughout, and the essay meets the criteria for Band 8 due to the skilful and natural management of cohesion and logical sequencing.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient and generally flexible range of vocabulary suited to an academic discussion on technology and transportation. Less common lexical items are used effectively, including phrases such as 'artificial intelligence', 'automation', 'optimise their routes', 'congestion', and 'job displacement'. Word choice and collocation are generally accurate, although vocabulary remains somewhat standard rather than truly sophisticated or ambitious in places. Minor inaccuracies are absent, and spelling is flawless. The lexical range comfortably satisfies the requirements for Band 7, providing enough precision to discuss complex ideas smoothly.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The writer exhibits a strong command of grammatical structures, successfully employing a wide range of complex sentences. Examples include conditional and concessive structures such as 'Although this technology may create some serious challenges, I believe that...' and 'furthermore, if driverless vehicles become widespread, they may communicate...'. The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled with a high degree of accuracy. The control over complex syntax is consistent, allowing the ideas to be communicated with precision. This performance easily meets the criteria for a Band 8 score, demonstrating excellent grammatical flexibility and minimal errors.

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