Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-08-17

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people have decided to reduce the number of times they fly every year or to stop flying altogether.

Do you think the environmental benefits of this development outweigh the disadvantages for individuals and businesses?

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

Student answer (Band 8.0)

In an era of growing climate awareness, many people are choosing to fly less or stop altogether, aiming to reduce environmental harm. While this brings challenges for individuals and businesses, its environmental benefits ultimately outweigh the drawbacks.

Aviation is widely recognized as a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, with its impact growing as air travel becomes more popular. Each flight releases large amounts of greenhouse gases, which accelerate climate change. By cutting down on flying, people directly reduce their own contribution to this problem. For instance, long-distance flights, even with a single passenger, generate far more emissions than other transport options. Choosing trains for shorter trips or online meetings instead of in-person ones can make a real difference in lowering one’s environmental footprint. Such choices support global efforts to tackle climate change, which requires reducing high-carbon activities.

Critics say less flying limits personal mobility and hurts businesses, especially those needing international links. Professionals might miss face-to-face meetings, and tourism industries could lose income. But alternatives are improving: high-speed trains in many regions offer good substitutes for short flights, and digital tools make virtual teamwork easier. More importantly, the costs of ignoring climate change – including extreme weather disasters, crop failures, and collapsed ecosystems – dwarf the short-term economic and logistical costs of adjusting to less flying.

In the end, reducing flights is more than a lifestyle tweak – it’s a vital step in confronting our planet’s most pressing threat. Short-term inconveniences for individuals and businesses pale beside the urgency of securing a sustainable future. Choosing the environment over ease isn’t just a duty; it’s an act of hope. It trades momentary convenience for the enduring promise of a world where life thrives, not just survives.

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 throughout the essay. The arguments regarding environmental benefits are well-developed, and you provide a balanced view by acknowledging the disadvantages for individuals and businesses before refuting them with stronger counter-arguments. The ideas are extended with relevant examples, such as the mention of high-speed trains and digital tools as alternatives to flying. The conclusion effectively synthesizes your position, reinforcing the urgency of the environmental perspective. The response is well-structured and directly answers the question asked.

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 the environmental benefits and the counter-arguments is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'For instance,' 'But alternatives are improving,' and 'More importantly,' which help guide the reader through your argument. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different aspects of the discussion. The flow of information is natural, and there is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which allows for precise expression of your ideas. Phrases like 'global carbon emissions,' 'environmental footprint,' 'logistical costs,' and 'enduring promise' show a high level of lexical control. You use less common items appropriately and with a good sense of collocation. There are no significant errors in word choice, and the language used is sophisticated and natural throughout the essay. The vocabulary is well-suited to the academic tone of the task.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and varied clause types. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and syntax is excellent. You use a mix of simple and complex forms to maintain interest and clarity. There are no noticeable grammatical errors that impede communication. The use of modal verbs and conditional structures is accurate, contributing to the overall professional and persuasive tone of the writing.

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