Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-14

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental problems.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 8.0)

Environmental degradation has become one of the most pressing concerns facing humanity. While some people believe that the extinction of particular species of flora and fauna is the most serious environmental issue today, others argue that problems such as climate change, pollution and resource depletion deserve greater attention. Although the loss of biodiversity is undoubtedly a serious concern, I believe that broader environmental problems, particularly climate change and pollution, pose a more immediate and far-reaching threat.

On the one hand, the disappearance of individual plant and animal species can have severe consequences for the natural environment. To begin with, every species plays a role in maintaining ecological balance, and the removal of one species can disrupt an entire food chain. For example, the decline of bees and other pollinating insects could negatively affect the reproduction of many plants and, consequently, agricultural production. Moreover, once a species becomes extinct, its genetic characteristics and ecological function cannot be recovered. This means that biodiversity loss is not merely the disappearance of wildlife but also a permanent reduction in the planet's natural resources. Therefore, those who consider species extinction to be the primary environmental problem have a strong argument.

On the other hand, there are environmental challenges that are considerably broader in their impact. In particular, climate change affects virtually every ecosystem and human population across the world. Rising temperatures, melting glaciers, extreme weather events and sea-level rise can destroy habitats while simultaneously threatening agriculture, water supplies and human settlements. In addition, air, water and soil pollution directly affect both humans and wildlife. Industrial waste, plastic pollution and excessive greenhouse-gas emissions can contaminate ecosystems on a massive scale. More importantly, these problems can themselves accelerate the extinction of species, meaning that biodiversity loss is often a consequence of wider environmental damage rather than an isolated problem.

In my view, climate change and pollution should be regarded as the more important environmental concerns because of their global scale and their ability to trigger numerous other problems, including habitat destruction and species extinction. Tackling these root causes would therefore have a wider positive impact than focusing exclusively on individual endangered species.

In conclusion, although the loss of particular species is a serious and often irreversible environmental problem, I believe that climate change, pollution and related large-scale environmental threats are more significant. Governments and individuals should consequently focus on addressing these underlying issues while continuing to protect endangered species.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You have clearly discussed both viewpoints regarding the importance of species extinction versus broader environmental issues like climate change and pollution. Your own position is established in the introduction and maintained consistently throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, with logical support provided for both sides of the argument. For instance, the discussion on the role of bees in ecological balance provides a concrete example for the first view, while the explanation of how climate change acts as a 'root cause' for other environmental problems effectively supports your own stance. The response is balanced, thorough, and directly answers the prompt.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth, using effective linking phrases such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'In my view'. Cohesive devices are used naturally and accurately throughout the text. The paragraphing is logical, with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs exploring the opposing views, a paragraph stating your own opinion, and a concise conclusion. The referencing is precise, ensuring that the reader can easily follow the development of your argument from start to finish.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary, which is used with precision and natural control. Phrases such as 'environmental degradation', 'ecological balance', 'genetic characteristics', and 'root causes' show a high level of lexical proficiency. The vocabulary is not only accurate but also appropriate for an academic context. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used is varied enough to maintain the reader's interest throughout the response. The use of topic-specific terminology is excellent and contributes significantly to the clarity of your arguments.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences, conditional-like logic, and varied clause structures. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over punctuation and syntax is highly commendable. You successfully use a mix of simple and complex forms to convey your ideas effectively. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication or cause confusion. The sentence construction is sophisticated, reflecting a high level of grammatical competence that is consistent throughout the entire piece of writing.

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