Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-09-16

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 7.5)

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 views and give your own opinion.Obesity has become a critical public health issue in many countries, and the role of junk food advertising in this crisis is a subject of considerable debate. While some argue that such advertising should be prohibited because it encourages unhealthy eating, others contend that it is not a primary cause of obesity. This essay will discuss both perspectives before concluding that a ban, while not a complete solution, is a necessary step.On one hand, there are strong arguments for banning junk food advertisements. Advertising is specifically designed to influence consumer behaviour, and junk food companies often target vulnerable groups, particularly children, who lack the maturity to make informed nutritional choices. Bright colours, celebrity endorsements, and emotional appeals create cravings for products high in sugar, salt, and fat. Constant exposure normalises the consumption of these foods as an everyday choice rather than an occasional treat. For example, a child who repeatedly sees ads for sugary drinks during cartoons is far more likely to demand them, leading to poor dietary habits that can persist into adulthood and contribute directly to weight gain.On the other hand, opponents of a ban argue that advertising is not the root cause of obesity and that banning it infringes on commercial freedom. They point out that obesity is a complex condition influenced by multiple factors, including sedentary lifestyles, lack of exercise, genetics, and overall overconsumption of calories. They argue that consumers have personal responsibility and should be free to make their own choices. Furthermore, they claim that companies have the right to market legal products, and that banning one type of advertising could set a precedent for banning other industries. In their view, education about healthy eating and exercise would be more effective than censorship.In my opinion, although obesity is multifactorial, the influence of junk food advertising cannot be ignored and should be restricted. While a ban alone will not solve the problem, it would significantly reduce the pressure on consumers, especially children, to choose unhealthy options. Personal responsibility is important, but it is difficult to exercise when individuals are subjected to sophisticated and relentless marketing. A more balanced approach would be to ban junk food advertising during children's viewing hours, in schools, and on social media platforms popular with young people, while simultaneously investing in public health campaigns that promote a healthy diet and active lifestyle.In conclusion, while some believe that junk food advertising is not to blame for obesity, the evidence suggests that it plays a substantial role in shaping unhealthy eating habits. Therefore, I believe governments should implement restrictions on such advertising as part of a broader strategy to combat obesity.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. It thoroughly discusses both views—that junk food advertising should be banned due to its impact on obesity, and the counter-argument that advertising is not the root cause and that personal responsibility and commercial freedom matter. The student's position is clearly stated in the introduction, maintained throughout, and well-supported in the conclusion. Ideas are extensively developed with relevant examples, such as targeting children through cartoons and celebrity endorsements, and suggesting nuanced policy solutions. The response satisfies all requirements of a well-constructed academic essay at a high level, earning a Band 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically structured with a clear progression from introduction to body paragraphs discussing opposing views, followed by a well-reasoned personal opinion and conclusion. Paragraphing is used skilfully, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct central theme. Cohesive devices are managed naturally and flexibly without being overly mechanical (e.g., 'On one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Furthermore'). Referencing and substitution are handled smoothly, maintaining a clear thread of discourse throughout the entire text. Overall, Coherence and Cohesion easily meets the criteria for Band 8.0.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The student demonstrates a wide and flexible vocabulary resource appropriate for an academic discussion. Less common and sophisticated lexical items are used with good control and awareness of collocation, such as 'public health issue', 'consumer behaviour', 'celebrity endorsements', 'multifactorial', and 'sophisticated and relentless marketing'. Word choice and spelling are consistently accurate, with only rare minor slips. The precision with which terms are integrated into the arguments reflects a strong command of vocabulary, justifying a Band 8.0 for this criterion.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response features a wide range of complex grammatical structures used with a high degree of accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free, and clauses are skilfully combined using subordinating and coordinating structures (e.g., 'While some argue that such advertising should be prohibited because it encourages unhealthy eating...'). Punctuation is handled correctly throughout, and verb tenses remain consistent and appropriate. The control over grammar matches the Band 8 descriptor well, as errors are virtually non-existent and complex forms are managed fluidly.

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