Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Academic Practice Accelerator · 2026-08-13

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)

Nowadays, many people believe that keeping animals in zoos is unnecessary and that all zoos should be closed. Although there are some disadvantages to keeping wild animals in captivity, I disagree with the idea that zoos should be completely closed. In my opinion, well-managed zoos can play an important role in education and animal conservation.

One important reason why zoos should continue to exist is that they can help protect endangered species. Some animals are becoming rare because of hunting, climate change and the destruction of their natural habitats. Zoos can provide safe environments where these animals can be protected and bred. For example, some endangered animals can be successfully bred in captivity and later returned to protected areas in the wild. Therefore, responsible zoos can contribute to preventing certain species from becoming extinct.

Another benefit is education. Zoos allow children and adults to see animals closely and learn about their behaviour and natural habitats. This experience can increase people's awareness of environmental problems and encourage them to protect wildlife. For instance, a child who sees an endangered tiger in a zoo may become more interested in learning about wildlife protection. In addition, some zoos support research into animal health and behaviour.

However, it is also true that keeping animals in small cages can be harmful. Wild animals need enough space and freedom to behave naturally, and poor-quality zoos may fail to provide suitable conditions. Animals can experience stress when they are kept in uncomfortable environments. For this reason, governments should introduce strict rules and close zoos that do not meet proper animal welfare standards.

In conclusion, I disagree that all zoos should be closed. While poorly managed zoos can cause suffering, modern and responsible zoos can protect endangered species, educate the public and support conservation. Therefore, instead of closing every zoo, governments should ensure that animals are kept in safe and suitable conditions.

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 arguments: conservation and education as benefits, and welfare standards as a necessary condition. The ideas are extended with logical examples, such as the breeding of endangered species and the educational impact on children. The conclusion effectively synthesises your main points and reinforces your stance. The response is well-structured and directly answers the question asked.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic sentence, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Although', 'For example', 'Therefore', and 'In addition'. The referencing is clear, and the paragraphing is used appropriately to separate different aspects of the argument. The flow of information is natural, and the reader can easily follow your line of reasoning from the introduction to the conclusion.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Phrases like 'endangered species', 'natural habitats', 'animal welfare standards', and 'successfully bred in captivity' are used accurately and appropriately. While the vocabulary is functional and clear, it leans towards standard academic English rather than highly sophisticated or idiomatic language. However, there are no significant errors in word choice or collocation that impede communication, and the vocabulary is well-suited to the task requirements.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a good command of grammatical structures. You use a mix of simple and complex sentences, such as the conditional-like structure in 'a child who sees an endangered tiger... may become more interested' and the use of concessive clauses with 'While' and 'Although'. Punctuation is accurate, and there are very few grammatical errors. The majority of your sentences are error-free, showing good control over tense and subject-verb agreement. The writing is clear and professional throughout.

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