Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-21

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 7.5)

Nowadays, environmental problems are becoming increasingly serious around the world. Some people believe that the extinction of plants and animals is the most important environmental issue, while others argue that there are more serious problems. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe that environmental issues such as climate change and pollution are more important.

On the one hand, the loss of particular species can have serious consequences for the environment. Every plant and animal plays a role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem. If one species disappears, it can affect other species that depend on it for food or survival. For example, the decline of bees could have a negative effect on agriculture because bees are important for pollinating many crops. In addition, the extinction of animals and plants is often permanent, meaning that future generations may never have the opportunity to see or benefit from these species.

On the other hand, there are several environmental problems that can affect both humans and wildlife on a much larger scale. Climate change, air pollution, water pollution and deforestation are major examples. Global warming is causing rising temperatures, melting glaciers and more extreme weather events. Similarly, air pollution in large cities can cause serious health problems for millions of people. These problems can also contribute to the loss of many species.

In my opinion, the extinction of species is certainly a major concern, but climate change and pollution are more urgent because they affect entire ecosystems as well as human societies. Therefore, governments and individuals should focus on reducing pollution, protecting natural habitats and limiting greenhouse-gas emissions.

In conclusion, although the disappearance of plant and animal species can seriously damage ecosystems, I believe that wider environmental problems, particularly climate change and pollution, deserve greater attention because of their global impact.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The essay addresses all parts of the prompt effectively. You have discussed both views—the importance of biodiversity loss and the urgency of broader environmental issues like climate change—and provided a clear personal opinion throughout the text. The ideas are well-developed, such as the example of bees and agriculture to support the first view, and the mention of global warming and health impacts for the second. The position is consistent and well-supported, meeting the requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the progression of ideas is smooth. You have used cohesive devices effectively, such as 'On the one hand,' 'In addition,' and 'Similarly,' which help guide the reader through your arguments. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the transition between the two viewpoints and your own opinion is seamless, demonstrating a high level of control over the structure of the essay.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic essay. Terms like 'maintaining the balance of an ecosystem,' 'pollinating,' 'extreme weather events,' and 'greenhouse-gas emissions' are used accurately and in the correct context. While the vocabulary is sufficient and precise, it could be further elevated to reach the highest band by incorporating more sophisticated, less common collocations or idiomatic academic phrasing. However, the current usage is natural and error-free, contributing to clear communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as conditional sentences ('If one species disappears, it can affect...') and relative clauses. The grammar is highly accurate, with the majority of sentences being error-free. Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and there are no significant slips that impede meaning. The control over tense and subject-verb agreement is consistent, reflecting a strong command of English grammar suitable for this level.

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