Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-20
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 6.5)
some people believe that the loss of particular species of plants and animals is the main environmental problem today, while others argue that there are more serious issues. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe species loss is important, but not the most urgent environmental problem.
On the one hand, the extinction of plants and animals can have serious consequences for the environment. Every species has a role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem. For example, bees and other insects are important for pollinating crops, while predators help control the populations of other animals. If one species disappears, it may affect many others and eventually damage the whole ecosystem. In addition, some species may provide benefits that humans have not yet discovered, such as new medicines or useful agricultural resources. Therefore, protecting biodiversity is essential for the future.
On the other hand, there are several environmental problems that may be more immediate and widespread. Climate change, air pollution and water pollution affect millions of people around the world. For instance, global warming can lead to extreme weather, rising sea levels and droughts, which can threaten both human life and wildlife. Similarly, polluted air from vehicles and factories can cause serious health problems, especially in large cities. These problems can also contribute to the loss of species by destroying their natural habitats.
In conclusion, the disappearance of plant and animal species can seriously damage the natural world, but I believe that climate change and pollution are more pressing environmental problems. Tackling these wider issues would also help to protect endangered species.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 6.5 |
| Overall | 6.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5
The essay effectively addresses the prompt by discussing both views regarding environmental problems, providing a balanced perspective. The introduction clearly outlines the two sides and presents the writer's opinion. However, the conclusion could be slightly stronger by summarizing the key arguments presented. Overall, the response meets the requirements of the task, resulting in a Task Achievement band score of 7.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5
Coherence and cohesion are mostly evident in the essay, with clear paragraphing and logical flow. Each paragraph focuses on distinct ideas, contributing to overall clarity. The transition phrases ('On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'In conclusion') enhance coherence, linking ideas effectively. However, some sentences could benefit from smoother transitions to enhance readability. This results in a coherence and cohesion band score of 7.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.5
The lexical resource displayed in the essay demonstrates adequate variety and some precise usage, with terms such as 'biodiversity' and 'ecosystem' being appropriate. However, there are instances of basic vocabulary, e.g., 'more serious issues', which could be enhanced. Avoiding repetition would elevate the quality of language. Overall, the lexical resource band score is 7.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5
The grammatical range and accuracy are quite strong, with a variety of complex sentences and correct tenses used throughout the essay. Sentence structures are varied and mostly accurate, which contributes to clarity. However, a few grammatical inaccuracies could impact the fluency slightly. Therefore, the grammatical range and accuracy band score is 7.
Overall feedback
Your essay effectively discusses both perspectives on environmental issues and presents your own viewpoint clearly. You make good use of examples to support your arguments, which adds credibility to your claims. To improve further, focus on enhancing the variety of vocabulary and ensuring that transitions between ideas are smoother. Additionally, consider strengthening your conclusion to more effectively summarize the discussion. Overall, you are on track for a solid score; continue refining these areas to reach the next level.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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