Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · IELTS General Essentials · 2026-08-21

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

We no longer need to have animals kept in zoos, so zoos should be closed.

Do you agree or disagree?

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

Student answer (Band 8.0)

Some people argue that zoos are no longer necessary and that keeping animals in captivity is unethical. While I agree that poorly managed zoos should be shut down, I disagree that all zoos should be closed because modern zoos play an important role in wildlife conservation and public education.

One of the main arguments for closing zoos is that animals deserve to live in their natural habitats rather than in confined spaces. Many species experience stress, boredom, and unnatural behavior when they are kept in small enclosures. Large animals such as elephants and tigers require vast territories to roam freely, something that many traditional zoos cannot provide. From an ethical perspective, it is unfair to limit an animal's freedom simply for human entertainment.

However, well-managed zoos make significant contributions to protecting endangered species. Many animals facing extinction due to habitat destruction or illegal hunting have survived through breeding programs in accredited zoos. For example, species such as the giant panda and the California condor have benefited from captive breeding and conservation efforts, with some individuals successfully reintroduced into the wild. Without these programs, certain species might have disappeared completely.

In addition, zoos provide valuable educational opportunities. Seeing animals in person can help children and adults develop a greater appreciation for wildlife and environmental protection. Many zoos also organize educational workshops, guided tours, and conservation campaigns that encourage visitors to support efforts to protect natural ecosystems.

In conclusion, although keeping animals in poor conditions is unacceptable, closing all zoos would remove an important tool for conservation and education. Instead of eliminating zoos entirely, governments should ensure that they meet high welfare standards and focus on protecting endangered wildlife rather than providing entertainment.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You have taken a clear position from the introduction, arguing that while some zoos are problematic, they should not be closed entirely due to their conservation and educational roles. Each paragraph is well-developed with relevant supporting arguments and specific examples, such as the mention of the giant panda and the California condor. The ideas are extended logically, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes your position. The response is balanced, addressing the counter-argument regarding animal welfare before presenting your own stance, which demonstrates a high level of task fulfillment.

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 arguments against zoos and the arguments for them is smooth, using effective cohesive devices such as 'However' and 'In addition'. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct points. The flow of information is natural, and referencing is clear throughout the text. The use of cohesive devices is skillful and unobtrusive, contributing to a coherent and well-structured response that is easy to follow from start to finish.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which is used with precision and natural control. Phrases such as 'wildlife conservation', 'natural habitats', 'endangered species', and 'captive breeding' are used accurately and in the correct context. There is a good awareness of style, and the vocabulary is sophisticated enough to convey your arguments effectively. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used is appropriate for an academic or formal discussion. The range is sufficient to express complex ideas clearly.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences that are used accurately. For example, the use of conditional structures ('Without these programs, certain species might have disappeared') and subordinate clauses ('While I agree that...', 'Although keeping animals in poor conditions is unacceptable...') is handled with high accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is used correctly throughout. The control over grammar is consistent, and there are no significant errors that impede communication or distract the reader. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a high level of grammatical competence.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.