Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · IELTS Academic Practice Accelerator · 2026-07-31

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)

In this modern era, some people believe that animals no longer need to be kept in zoos; therefore, all zoos should be completely closed. However, I completely disagree with this statement; I will discuss it in the next paragraph.

On the one hand, there are several reasons why zoos are no longer needed in this technological era. Today, advanced technology allows people to learn about wildlife through online documentaries and online platforms. Therefore, technology has eliminated the need to keep animals in captivity. Furthermore, many animals suffer psychologically when they are kept in small enclosures that cannot replicate their natural habitat. As a result, this can lead to abnormal behaviours, such as self -harm. From this perspective, closing zoos prevents animal suffering and allows people to respect their natural environment.

On the other side, despite all these arguments, Zoos provide essential facilities for the animals. Many endangered animals, such as the Royal Bengal tigers, survived because of because of breeding programmes run by accredited zoos. Natural habitats continue to disappear due to climate change and human activities. Zoos act as safe havens that protect the animals from extinction.

In addition, zoos , zoos offer educational opportunities for children and adults, helping them develop a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation. Without these facilities, public awareness and support for environmental protection might decline.

In my view, the solution is not to close zoos entirely but to transform them. Zoos should operate primarily as conservation centres, focusing on endangered species, rehabilitation, and scientific research. Entertainment‑based practices, such as animal performances or keeping species that do not benefit from captivity, should be phased out. By adopting this approach, zoos can continue to contribute positively while addressing ethical concerns.

In conclusion, although traditional zoos may no longer be necessary, closing them completely would be harmful to conservation efforts. Instead, zoos should evolve into modern, ethical institutions dedicated to protecting wildlife

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response addresses all parts of the prompt and maintains a clear, consistent position throughout. You acknowledge the opposing view before presenting a well-reasoned argument for the transformation of zoos rather than their closure. The ideas are relevant and well-developed, particularly the distinction between entertainment-based practices and conservation-focused institutions. The conclusion effectively synthesizes your position. To reach a higher band, you could provide more specific examples of successful conservation programs beyond the mention of Royal Bengal tigers to further strengthen the depth of your argument.

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 for and against zoos is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand,' 'Furthermore,' and 'In addition' to link your points effectively. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct stages of your argument. There are minor instances of repetition, such as 'zoos , zoos' in the third paragraph, but these do not significantly impede the flow of the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Phrases like 'accredited zoos,' 'rehabilitation,' and 'scientific research' show an awareness of style and topic-specific terminology. There is some repetition of basic words like 'animals' and 'zoos,' but this is expected given the subject matter. You use less common items effectively, though there is room for more sophisticated collocations to elevate the writing further. Overall, the vocabulary is accurate and allows for clear communication of your ideas.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. You use complex sentences effectively, such as 'Although traditional zoos may no longer be necessary, closing them completely would be harmful to conservation efforts.' While there are a few minor errors, such as the repeated 'because of' and the punctuation slip 'zoos , zoos,' these are non-systematic and do not interfere with meaning. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense is generally strong throughout the response.

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