Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-07-31

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In some societies, obesity is regarded as a major problem. Some people believe that junk food advertising is largely to blame for this problem and should be banned. However, others feel that junk food advertising does not contribute to the problem of obesity and should not be banned.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

You should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience·and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence. Write at least 250 words.

Student answer (Band 8.0)

Health concerns, particularly obesity, have become increasingly prevalent in many societies. While some people argue that advertisements promoting junk food are a major contributor to this issue and should therefore be prohibited, others believe that such advertising has little influence on obesity and should remain legal. This essay will discuss both perspectives before explaining why I believe stricter regulation rather than a complete ban is the better approach.

On the one hand, many people believe that junk food advertising plays a significant role in increasing obesity rates. Constant exposure to advertisements on television, social media, and billboards encourages consumers, particularly children and teenagers, to purchase high-calorie, low-nutrient foods. Moreover, these advertisements often use attractive packaging, discounts, and celebrity endorsements to influence purchasing decisions. As a result, unhealthy eating habits become more common, contributing to weight gain and related health problems. Consequently, supporters argue that banning such advertisements would reduce the consumption of unhealthy food and promote healthier lifestyles.

On the other hand, others contend that advertising is not the primary cause of obesity. They argue that personal responsibility, dietary choices, and lifestyle habits have a much greater impact on an individual’s health. Even in the absence of advertising, people can still access junk food if they choose to consume it. Furthermore, a lack of physical activity, excessive screen time, and poor nutritional awareness are equally important factors contributing to obesity. Therefore, banning advertisements alone is unlikely to solve this complex issue.

In my opinion, although junk food advertising does influence consumer behaviour, it is not the sole cause of obesity. Instead of imposing a complete ban, governments should introduce stricter regulations on advertising aimed at children while simultaneously promoting nutritional education and encouraging healthier lifestyles. Such a balanced approach would be more effective in addressing the root causes of obesity.

In conclusion, while junk food advertisements can contribute to unhealthy eating habits, obesity is influenced by multiple factors. Therefore, stricter regulation combined with public health initiatives is a more practical and effective solution than banning advertisements entirely.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You have clearly discussed both perspectives regarding junk food advertising and provided a well-reasoned personal opinion. The position is consistent throughout the essay, and the arguments are logically developed with relevant supporting points, such as the mention of celebrity endorsements and the role of personal responsibility. The structure is balanced, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes the main points while reiterating your stance. The ideas are well-extended, showing a clear understanding of the complexity of the issue.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

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 'Moreover', 'Consequently', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion', which help guide the reader through your argument. The paragraphing is appropriate, with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs discussing the opposing views, a paragraph for your own opinion, and a summary conclusion. The referencing is clear and consistent throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic essay. Phrases such as 'increasingly prevalent', 'consumer behaviour', 'nutritional awareness', and 'root causes' show a level of sophistication. The word choice is generally precise and natural. While the vocabulary is effective and conveys your meaning clearly, it falls just short of the 'wide, fluent and flexible range' required for a band 8 or 9, as it remains somewhat standard. However, there are no errors in word choice or collocation that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a good command of grammatical structures. You have successfully used a mix of simple and complex sentences, such as the conditional 'Even in the absence of advertising, people can still access junk food if they choose to consume it'. Punctuation is accurate, and there are no significant errors that distract the reader. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and you show good control over complex structures. To reach a higher band, you could incorporate a slightly wider variety of advanced grammatical forms, such as inversion or more complex passive constructions.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.