Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Academic Practice Accelerator · 2026-09-04

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 all zoos should therefore be closed. I disagree with this view, because well-managed zoos can help protect endangered animals and educate people about wildlife.

Firstly, zoos can play an important role in the protection of endangered species. Many animals are threatened because of hunting, climate change and the destruction of their natural habitats. In well-managed zoos, these animals can be protected and breeding programmes can help increase their numbers. For example, some endangered species can be bred in captivity and later introduced into protected natural areas. Therefore, zoos can contribute to the survival of animals that may otherwise disappear.

Secondly, zoos provide people with an opportunity to learn about animals and nature. Many children have never seen wild animals closely, and visiting a zoo can make them more interested in wildlife. This experience can also teach them about the importance of protecting animals and their habitats. As a result, zoos can help develop greater awareness of environmental problems among younger generations.

However, I agree that some zoos treat animals poorly. Keeping animals in small cages or unsuitable environments can cause them stress and prevent them from behaving naturally. For this reason, instead of closing every zoo, governments should introduce strict rules about animal welfare. Zoos that cannot provide proper conditions should be closed, while those that meet high standards should be allowed to continue.

In conclusion, I disagree that all zoos should be closed. Although some zoos have poor conditions, responsible zoos can protect endangered species and educate the public. Therefore, improving zoo standards is a better solution than closing them all.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. 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 breeding programmes in conservation and the educational value of zoos. The counter-argument regarding animal welfare is handled effectively, showing a balanced perspective before returning to your main point. The ideas are extended logically, and the conclusion provides a clear summary of your stance. The response is focused and directly answers the prompt.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, introduced by clear transition signals such as 'Firstly', 'Secondly', 'However', and 'In conclusion'. Cohesive devices are used effectively to link sentences and ideas, ensuring the flow is smooth and easy to follow. The paragraphing is logical and appropriate for the structure of an argumentative essay. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words, and the referencing is clear throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Phrases such as 'endangered species', 'breeding programmes', 'natural habitats', and 'environmental problems' are used accurately and appropriately. While the vocabulary is functional and clear, it lacks some of the more sophisticated or idiomatic collocations that would push the score into the highest band. However, the word choice is consistently natural and there are no errors that impede communication or cause confusion for the reader.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a good variety of complex structures, such as conditional-like constructions ('animals that may otherwise disappear') and passive voice ('can be protected', 'should be closed'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense usage is strong. There are no significant grammatical errors that distract the reader. The sentence structures are varied, moving between simple and complex forms effectively to maintain the reader's interest and convey your arguments with clarity.

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

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