Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · IELTS General Essentials · 2026-09-27

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)

Zoos have traditionally provided people with opportunities to observe wild animals while also contributing to conservation and education. Although there are valid concerns about keeping animals in captivity, I disagree with the view that all zoos should be closed, because well-managed facilities can play an important role in protecting endangered species.

One significant advantage of modern zoos is their contribution to conservation. Some endangered animals are bred in controlled environments and can potentially be reintroduced into their natural habitats. Zoos can also provide veterinary care for injured or vulnerable animals that might not survive in the wild. In addition, they educate visitors, particularly children, about wildlife and environmental protection. This can encourage greater awareness of the threats facing endangered species.

However, critics argue that keeping wild animals in captivity can negatively affect their physical and psychological well-being. Animals may have limited space and may be unable to behave naturally. This is especially concerning when facilities prioritise entertainment and visitor numbers rather than animal welfare. For example, poorly managed zoos may keep animals in unsuitable enclosures simply to attract tourists.

In my view, the solution is not to close every zoo but to impose strict welfare and conservation standards. Governments should regularly inspect zoos and close facilities that fail to provide appropriate living conditions. At the same time, reputable zoos should focus on conservation, research, education and the rehabilitation of wildlife.

In conclusion, although some zoos may be unsuitable for animals, well-regulated institutions can support conservation and public education. Therefore, I disagree with the idea of closing all zoos.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by taking a clear, well-supported position on whether zoos should be closed. The introduction clearly states your stance of disagreement, and body paragraphs present balanced arguments regarding both conservation benefits and welfare concerns. You effectively extend and support your ideas with relevant explanations, such as mentioning captive breeding, reintroduction, and veterinary care, before concluding with a nuanced solution. This fully aligns with the Band 8 descriptor for Task Achievement, as all parts are covered well and ideas are thoughtfully developed.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 8.0

Your essay demonstrates clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Ideas are logically sequenced, starting with an introduction of your position, moving through conservation benefits, counterarguments regarding animal welfare, a proposed solution, and a concise conclusion. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct central theme. Cohesive devices such as 'Although', 'In addition', 'However', and 'In conclusion' are used effectively to guide the reader through the text without being overly mechanical. This performance comfortably satisfies the criteria for a Band 7.5 to 8.0, showcasing strong coherence.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.0

You utilise a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary for this task. Phrases such as 'vulnerable animals', 'controlled environments', 'psychological well-being', and 'rehabilitation of wildlife' demonstrate a good command of topic-specific terminology and less common lexical items. Word choice is generally precise, and spelling is accurate throughout. While the range is slightly less flexible or sophisticated than what is expected for a Band 8, it easily meets the criteria for Band 7 due to its natural flow and stylistic awareness.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 8.0

Your writing displays a good variety of complex structures, such as concessive clauses ('Although there are valid concerns...') and conditional/relative constructions ('...animals that might not survive in the wild'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly. Control over grammar is strong, with only very occasional awkwardness or minor slips, which justifies a Band 8.0 according to the official descriptors.

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