Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-08
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)
Science plays a fundamental role in shaping modern civilisation, and many people argue that its primary purpose should be to enhance human welfare. While I acknowledge the importance of this goal, I believe science serves several equally valuable purposes, such as expanding human knowledge and satisfying natural curiosity.
On one hand, it is undeniable that scientific progress has dramatically improved people's quality of life. Medical research, for instance, has led to vaccines and treatments that have eradicated diseases which once devastated entire populations. Similarly, advances in agricultural science have enabled farmers to produce sufficient food for a rapidly growing global population. Without these practical applications, millions of people would continue to suffer from preventable illnesses and food shortages. It is therefore reasonable to argue that improving human welfare should remain a central objective of scientific endeavour.
On the other hand, restricting science solely to practical, life-improving outcomes would be short-sighted. Many of history's most significant discoveries, such as the theory of relativity or the structure of DNA, emerged from pure intellectual curiosity rather than a deliberate attempt to solve immediate human problems. These discoveries later led to unforeseen applications, including GPS technology and genetic medicine, which would not have been possible if scientists had focused exclusively on practical benefits. Furthermore, space exploration and theoretical physics expand humanity's understanding of the universe, which has intrinsic value even without immediate practical use.
In conclusion, although I recognise the immense value of science in enhancing human lives, I do not believe this should be regarded as its sole or most important aim.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 8.0 |
| Overall | 7.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5
The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly state your position in the introduction and maintain it throughout the essay. The arguments are well-developed, with specific examples such as medical research and the theory of relativity to support your points. You successfully balance the two sides of the argument—the practical benefits of science versus the value of pure intellectual curiosity—and provide a logical conclusion that synthesizes your view. The ideas are relevant and extended well, demonstrating a strong grasp of the task requirements.
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 like 'On one hand' and 'On the other hand'. Cohesive devices are used naturally and accurately throughout the text, such as 'Similarly', 'Furthermore', and 'In conclusion'. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the flow of information is easy to follow, making the argument coherent and well-structured from start to finish.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.5
You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary that is used with precision. Phrases like 'fundamental role', 'human welfare', 'eradicated diseases', and 'intrinsic value' show a high level of lexical control. The vocabulary is sophisticated and appropriate for an academic context. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used effectively conveys your arguments with clarity and nuance. The range of vocabulary is sufficient to allow for precise expression of complex ideas.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0
The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses and conditional structures. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is used correctly to enhance readability. Your control over verb tenses and subject-verb agreement is excellent. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication, and the overall quality of the writing is highly accurate, reflecting a strong command of English grammar.
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