Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-12

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 7.0)

Science has played a crucial role in shaping modern society, and many people believe that its main purpose should be to improve human life. I strongly agree with this view because scientific progress can solve major problems, improve health, and make everyday life easier and safer.

Firstly, science has made enormous contributions to medicine and healthcare. The development of vaccines, antibiotics, medical equipment, and advanced treatments has saved millions of lives. For example, vaccines have helped control diseases such as polio and measles, while modern surgical techniques allow doctors to treat conditions that were once considered impossible to cure. Therefore, improving human health should certainly be one of the most important goals of scientific research.

Secondly, scientific discoveries have significantly improved people's daily lives. Electricity, the internet, smartphones, and modern transportation have made communication, education, and travel much easier. For instance, students can now attend online classes and access educational resources from almost anywhere in the world. Similarly, renewable energy technologies can help reduce pollution and protect the environment for future generations.

However, I do not believe that every scientific discovery must have an immediate practical benefit. Some research is conducted simply to increase human knowledge. Basic research in areas such as astronomy and physics may not produce direct benefits at first, but it can eventually lead to important technological developments.

In conclusion, I strongly agree that improving people's lives should be the most important aim of science. Nevertheless, scientific research should also be allowed to explore new knowledge, as discoveries without immediate practical uses may provide valuable benefits in the future.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, clearly stating a position in the introduction and maintaining it throughout. The ideas are relevant and well-supported with examples such as vaccines, medical equipment, and modern technology. The inclusion of a counter-argument regarding 'basic research' adds depth and demonstrates a balanced approach to the topic. The conclusion effectively synthesises the main points while acknowledging the nuance of the argument. The response is fully developed and meets the requirements for a Band 8, as it covers all parts of the task well with a clear, consistent position.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the benefits of science and the necessity of basic research is smooth. Cohesive devices such as 'Firstly', 'Secondly', 'For example', and 'Nevertheless' are used effectively to guide the reader. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct arguments. The flow is natural, and the relationship between sentences is clear, meeting the criteria for a Band 8.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The vocabulary is accurate and appropriate for an academic context. The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey ideas with precision, such as 'crucial role', 'scientific progress', 'advanced treatments', and 'renewable energy technologies'. While the vocabulary is functional and clear, it lacks the 'skilful use of uncommon items' required for a Band 8 or 9. It is a solid Band 7 performance, as the range is sufficient for the task and there are no significant errors in word choice or collocation.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The essay demonstrates a good variety of complex structures, such as the use of conditional-like structures ('if... but it can eventually lead to...') and relative clauses. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is accurate. There is a good control of grammar throughout, with no major errors that impede communication. While the structures are correct, they are somewhat standard; a higher band would require a more sophisticated range of complex sentence forms used with greater flexibility.

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

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