Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Academic Practice Accelerator · 2026-08-10

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 7.5)

It is often argued that keeping animals in zoos is no longer necessary and that these institutions should therefore be closed. I disagree with this view, because well-managed zoos can contribute significantly to wildlife conservation and provide valuable educational opportunities for the public.

One important reason for keeping zoos open is their role in protecting endangered species. Many wild animals are increasingly threatened by habitat destruction, illegal hunting and climate change. In some cases, zoos provide a safe environment where endangered animals can be bred and protected from these dangers. Successful breeding programmes can also help increase the population of rare species and, where possible, allow them to be reintroduced into their natural habitats. For example, several endangered species have benefited from carefully managed captive-breeding programmes, which have helped prevent their extinction.

Another major benefit of zoos is their educational value. People, particularly children, can learn about animals and develop a greater understanding of the importance of protecting wildlife. Seeing animals in person can create a stronger connection with nature than simply reading about them in textbooks or watching documentaries. Furthermore, many modern zoos conduct research into animal behaviour, reproduction and health, which can contribute to broader conservation efforts. Therefore, closing all zoos could result in the loss of these educational and scientific benefits.

However, I acknowledge that poorly managed zoos can cause serious animal-welfare problems. Animals may suffer when they are kept in small or unsuitable enclosures, deprived of natural behaviour or treated primarily as a source of entertainment. Nevertheless, this does not mean that all zoos should be closed. Instead, governments should introduce strict regulations concerning enclosure size, animal welfare, veterinary care and breeding programmes. Zoos that fail to meet these standards should be closed, while responsible institutions should be encouraged to continue their conservation work.

In conclusion, I disagree that zoos should be completely abolished. Although keeping wild animals in captivity can be harmful when it is poorly managed, responsible zoos can protect endangered species, support scientific research and educate the public. The focus should therefore be on improving zoo standards rather than closing all zoos.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have taken a clear position from the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. Each paragraph is well-developed with relevant supporting arguments, such as the role of zoos in conservation and education. The counter-argument regarding animal welfare is handled effectively, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the topic. The ideas are extended logically, and the conclusion provides a strong summary that reinforces your initial stance. The response is balanced and demonstrates a high level of task engagement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Furthermore,' 'Nevertheless,' and 'In conclusion,' which help guide the reader through your argument. The referencing is precise, and the paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct points. The flow of the essay is natural, and the structure supports the development of your argument without any confusion.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which is used with precision. Phrases like 'wildlife conservation,' 'endangered species,' 'habitat destruction,' and 'captive-breeding programmes' show a strong command of topic-specific language. You use less common lexical items naturally, and there are no significant errors in word choice or collocation. The language is sophisticated and contributes to the overall clarity and professional tone of the essay. Your vocabulary is well-suited to the academic nature of the task.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses and conditional structures. The majority of sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and syntax is excellent. There are no noticeable grammatical errors that impede communication. You have successfully integrated various sentence types to create a fluent and readable text. The accuracy is consistent throughout, reflecting a high level of grammatical competence appropriate for an advanced learner.

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