Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-09-19

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)

Obesity has become a serious health concern in many societies, and the role of junk food advertising in contributing to this problem is widely debated. While some people argue that advertisements for unhealthy food are a major cause of obesity and should therefore be prohibited, others believe that advertising has little influence on people’s weight and should remain legal. This essay will discuss both perspectives before explaining my view.

On the one hand, there are several reasons why junk food advertising is considered partly responsible for rising obesity rates. Firstly, advertisements are specifically designed to make products appear attractive and desirable. Fast food companies often use colourful images, celebrities, special offers and catchy slogans to encourage people, particularly children, to consume their products. As a result, repeated exposure to such advertisements can create strong cravings and influence people’s food choices. Secondly, children are especially vulnerable to advertising because they may not fully understand the commercial intentions behind it. If they regularly see advertisements for burgers, fried food and sugary drinks, they may develop unhealthy eating habits from an early age. Therefore, restricting advertising aimed at children could help reduce their exposure to these influences.

On the other hand, opponents of a ban argue that advertising is not the main cause of obesity. People’s weight is affected by a wide range of factors, including their overall diet, physical activity, genetics, lifestyle and socioeconomic circumstances. Even if advertisements for junk food were removed, individuals would still have the freedom to purchase unhealthy products from shops and restaurants. Moreover, advertising can inform consumers about products without necessarily forcing them to buy them. From this perspective, education about nutrition and encouraging regular exercise may be more effective than simply banning advertisements.

In my opinion, junk food advertising does contribute to obesity, particularly among children, but it is only one factor among many. A complete ban may therefore be excessive. Instead, governments should consider stricter regulations on advertisements aimed at children, while schools and parents should educate young people about healthy eating and the consequences of excessive consumption of processed food. At the same time, making healthier food more affordable and accessible could encourage people to make better choices.

In conclusion, although junk food advertising can influence people’s eating habits and contribute to obesity, it is not the sole cause of the problem. A combination of advertising restrictions, nutritional education, physical activity and greater access to healthy food would be a more comprehensive approach.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both sides of the argument regarding junk food advertising and obesity, and clearly stating a personal position throughout. In the first body paragraph, the arguments for banning advertisements are well-supported, focusing on the psychological impact on children. In the second body paragraph, the alternative perspective is effectively explored, noting that obesity is multifactorial and that advertising does not force consumption. The conclusion and final paragraph successfully integrate the writer's nuanced viewpoint that advertising is a contributing factor rather than the sole cause, proposing balanced solutions such as stricter regulations and nutrition education. The ideas are extended and supported with relevant examples, meeting the requirements for a Band 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response is exceptionally well-structured and easy to follow. Ideas are logically sequenced, beginning with a clear introduction that outlines the essay's trajectory, followed by balanced body paragraphs, and culminating in a well-considered conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'As a result', and 'Moreover' are used naturally and effectively to guide the reader through the argumentation. Paragraphing is used skillfully and appropriately, with each paragraph addressing a distinct sub-topic. The progression of thought is smooth throughout, demonstrating strong control over overall text cohesion, which comfortably aligns with Band 8.0 standards.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The student demonstrates a wide and flexible range of vocabulary suited to an academic discussion on public health. Words and phrases such as 'socioeconomic circumstances', 'commercial intentions', 'comprehensive approach', and 'excessive consumption' show skillful use of less common lexical items with appropriate collocations and style. Word choice is generally precise, and there are virtually no spelling or word-choice errors that impede communication. While the vocabulary is fluent and natural, it occasionally stops short of the fully sophisticated, subtle nuances required for a Band 9.0. Overall, the lexical control is robust and merits a Band 8.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of complex sentence structures, including conditional clauses ('Even if advertisements...'), participial phrases, and well-managed subordinate clauses. The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled with a high degree of accuracy. The grammatical control allows the writer to convey precise meanings smoothly and effectively. Minor slips are virtually absent, and the complexity of the grammar is sustained throughout the entire response. The high frequency of error-free sentences combined with a diverse structural range clearly satisfies the criteria for Band 8.0.

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