Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-05
IELTS Writing Task 2 question
The most important aim of science should be to improve people’s lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answers and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Student answer (Band 7.5)
Opinions are divided on whether the primary focus of scientific research ought to be the enhancement of human well-being. While I accept that addressing practical human challenges is a crucial priority, I believe that completely dismissing theoretical science would be short-sighted.
On the one hand, there are compelling reasons why improving everyday lives should be the foremost objective of scientific inquiry. Medical and technological advancements directly alleviate human suffering and elevate living standards. For instance, the rapid development of vaccines and life-saving treatments demonstrates how applied science can eradicate deadly diseases and increase global life expectancy. Furthermore, prioritizing fields like environmental science and renewable energy is vital to combat climate change, ensuring a sustainable future for coming generations. When public funds and institutional resources are channeled into solving pressing social and health crises, society reaps immediate and tangible benefits.
On the other hand, restricting scientific exploration solely to immediate practical applications is a mistake, as pure science often lays the groundwork for unexpected future innovations. Theoretical physics, astronomy, and fundamental biological research may not yield immediate solutions to daily human problems, yet they expand the boundaries of human knowledge. For example, space exploration programs initially driven by abstract curiosity have ultimately yielded countless spin-off technologies, such as advanced water-purification systems and GPS, which profoundly benefit modern society. Moreover, understanding the universe at a fundamental level protects humanity from long-term, unforeseen existential threats, such as tracking near-Earth asteroids.
In conclusion, while enhancing human lives is arguably the most vital mission of science, it should not be the only goal. A healthy scientific ecosystem requires a harmonious balance between practical problem-solving and blue-sky research, as today's abstract theories frequently become tomorrow's life-changing solutions.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.5 |
| Overall | 7.5 |
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. The arguments are well-developed, with specific examples such as vaccines for applied science and GPS for theoretical science. The ideas are extended logically, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes the two sides of the argument. The response is balanced and demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the topic, meeting the criteria for a high band score by providing a nuanced perspective rather than a simplistic one.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the two main body paragraphs is smooth, using effective signposting language like 'On the one hand' and 'On the other hand'. Cohesive devices are used naturally and accurately, such as 'Furthermore', 'Moreover', and 'In conclusion'. The paragraphing is skillful, and the internal structure of each paragraph is coherent, ensuring that the reader can follow the argument without any effort. The use of referencing is precise and contributes to the overall flow.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.0
You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary. The use of terms such as 'scientific inquiry', 'tangible benefits', 'existential threats', and 'harmonious balance' shows a high level of lexical control. The vocabulary is not only accurate but also contextually appropriate, contributing to the academic tone of the essay. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the range of vocabulary allows for precise expression of complex ideas. The language is natural and demonstrates a high degree of flexibility.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5
The essay displays a wide range of complex grammatical structures used with high accuracy. You effectively employ conditional structures, relative clauses, and varied sentence lengths to maintain interest and clarity. For example, the sentence 'While I accept that addressing practical human challenges is a crucial priority, I believe that completely dismissing theoretical science would be short-sighted' is a well-constructed complex sentence. Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and there are no significant grammatical errors. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over grammar is consistent and sophisticated.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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