Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

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

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)

Depletion of biodiversity has surfaced as a critical global concern, leading some to argue that the loss of specific flora and fauna is the most pressing environmental crisis today. Conversely, others believe that alternative ecological challenges demand greater priority. This essay will examine both perspectives, but I contend that overarching issues like climate change present a more immediate threat because they drive biodiversity loss itself.

On the one hand, proponents of biodiversity preservation argue that losing key species triggers an ecological domino effect. Ecosystems rely on a delicate web of interdependence; the extinction of a single apex predator or a vital pollinator can lead to a systemic collapse. For instance, the drastic decline in global bee populations threatens agricultural yields, directly endangering human food security. Furthermore, many plant species hold undiscovered medicinal value, meaning their permanent disappearance represents a catastrophic loss to scientific advancement and healthcare.

On the other hand, a compelling case can be made for prioritizing larger, systematic crises such as global warming and widespread pollution. Climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, causes rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and severe droughts that threaten entire human populations and habits. Unlike the localized extinction of a single species, global warming acts as a universal threat multiplier. It alters temperatures so rapidly that thousands of species are forced out of their habitats simultaneously, proving that atmosphere degradation is an even more fundamental issue.

In conclusion, while the accelerating loss of individual plant and animal species disrupts vital ecological webs, it is ultimately a symptom of a larger illness. In my opinion, systemic environmental problems like climate change are far more significant because resolving them is the only viable way to safeground both planetary stability and global biodiversity.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You clearly present both sides of the argument and maintain a consistent, well-supported position throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, particularly the distinction between biodiversity loss as a symptom and climate change as a root cause. The introduction provides a clear thesis statement, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes the arguments presented. The response is balanced, and the examples provided, such as the decline in bee populations, are relevant and effectively illustrate your points. The essay demonstrates a high level of engagement with the prompt, meeting all requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth and natural. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Conversely', 'On the one hand', 'Furthermore', and 'In conclusion', which help guide the reader through your argument. The paragraphing is skillful, with each section serving a distinct purpose in the overall structure. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words; rather, the cohesion is unobtrusive and supports the flow of the argument perfectly.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary, using terms like 'depletion of biodiversity', 'ecological domino effect', 'systemic collapse', and 'atmosphere degradation' with precision. The word choice is natural and appropriate for an academic context. There are no noticeable errors in collocation or word choice. You successfully use less common lexical items to convey complex ideas, which indicates a high level of control over the language. The vocabulary is not only accurate but also enhances the clarity and impact of your arguments.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and varied clause types, used with high accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the few minor slips that might occur are rare and do not impede communication. Your control over punctuation and sentence structure is excellent, allowing for a sophisticated flow of information. The use of conditional structures and participial phrases adds to the complexity of the writing. Overall, the grammatical performance is very strong and consistent throughout the response.

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

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.