Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-22

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 has advanced dramatically over the past century, and many people argue that its primary purpose should be to enhance human welfare. While I agree that improving people's lives is a crucial aim of science, I believe it should not be considered the only, or even the most important, objective.

There is strong justification for viewing the improvement of human life as science's central purpose. Scientific research has led to remarkable breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture and technology that have directly enhanced quality of life. For example, the development of vaccines has eradicated diseases such as smallpox and dramatically reduced the impact of others like polio, saving millions of lives worldwide. Similarly, advances in agricultural science, such as high-yield crop varieties, have helped address food shortages in developing nations. These examples demonstrate that when science is directed towards practical human needs, it can produce transformative results.

However, restricting science solely to this goal overlooks its equally important role in expanding human understanding. Many scientific discoveries, particularly in fields such as astronomy, theoretical physics and palaeontology, have little immediate practical application yet significantly enrich our knowledge of the universe and our place within it. For instance, research into black holes or the origins of the universe does not directly improve daily life, but it satisfies human curiosity and often leads to unforeseen technological benefits decades later, such as GPS technology, which relies on principles derived from Einstein's theory of relativity.

Furthermore, an excessive focus on immediate human benefit could limit scientific freedom and discourage exploratory research that may not yield instant practical results but could prove invaluable in the future.

In conclusion, while improving people's lives is undoubtedly one of the most valuable outcomes of scientific research, I do not believe it should be regarded as science's sole or most important aim. Science should also be free to pursue knowledge for its own sake, as such exploration often leads to unexpected and far-reaching benefits.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by presenting a clear, well-developed position on whether science's most important aim should be improving people's lives. The introduction establishes a nuanced stance, acknowledging the importance of human welfare while arguing against it being the sole objective. Body paragraphs are well supported with relevant and specific examples, such as vaccines, high-yield crops, and the application of Einstein's theory of relativity to GPS technology. Ideas are extended logically and thoroughly, leading to a natural conclusion that aligns with the initial thesis. The response satisfies all requirements of the prompt with a high degree of development and extension, earning a Band 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a logical organization with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from the introduction to arguments supporting the proposition, counter-arguments regarding pure science, and a balanced conclusion. Cohesive devices are used naturally and effectively, such as 'Similarly', 'However', and 'Furthermore', ensuring smooth transitions between ideas. Paragraphing is managed skilfully and appropriately, with each major point receiving dedicated space. Referencing is clear and precise throughout the text. The overall structure and flow fully support the arguments presented, meeting the criteria for a high band.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The writer demonstrates a wide, fluent, and flexible lexical resource suitable for an academic task. Less common vocabulary items are used with precision and good awareness of collocation, such as 'enhance human welfare', 'remarkable breakthroughs', 'eradicated diseases', and 'exploratory research'. Word choice is generally sophisticated and natural, with only occasional minor inaccuracies. Spelling and word formation are flawless. The range of vocabulary allows the writer to convey precise meanings smoothly, effectively satisfying the requirements for a Band 8.0 in this criterion.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response exhibits a wide range of complex grammatical structures used with a high degree of flexibility and accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free, and complex forms such as concessive clauses ('While I agree that...') and relative clauses ('that have directly enhanced...') are handled with great control. Punctuation is accurate, and syntax is sophisticated. There are only very occasional minor slips or inappropriacies that do not detract from the overall clarity of the communication. This high level of structural variety and precision merits a Band 8.0.

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