Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-22

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 6.0)

In modern times, the issue of environmental problem has become highly controversial. There are those who say that the main atmosphere problem of our is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. However, other people believe that there are more essential environmental problems. In this essay I will examine both side of the argument and provide my overall opinion.

Generally speaking, there are two main reasons why people believe that environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Perhaps the main reason why people are in favor of this idea is because this can disturb the natural balance of ecosystems because every species has an important role in the food chain. For example, the disappearance of some animals can affect other species that depend on them for food. Therefore, protecting endangered plants and animals is essential for maintaining biodiversity and a healthy environment.

Despite these arguments, there is also a case for the idea that there are more important environmental problems. The main reason why people think this is a good idea is that climate change, air pollution and global warming have a direct impact on millions of people around the world. For instance, rising temperatures can cause floods, droughts and extreme weather, whole air pollution can lead to serious health problems. Moreover, these problems ca affect entire countries and economies rather than only particular species. Therefore, I believe that climate change and pollution should also be considered major environmental concerns.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, although the loss of plant and animal species is a serious environmental issue, I believe that problems such as climate change, global warming and air pollution are more significant because they affect both humans and the natural environment on a much larger scale.

AI examiner evaluation

CriterionBand
Task Achievement / Task Response6.0
Coherence and Cohesion5.5
Lexical Resource6.0
Grammatical Range and Accuracy5.5
Overall6.0

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response addresses both views of the argument as required by the task, discussing the loss of species and other environmental issues. However, it could be improved by providing clearer examples and more detailed elaboration on each point. For instance, while the mention of food chain disruption is relevant, further explanation on the consequences would enhance the argument. Additionally, the overall opinion is stated but could be better integrated throughout the essay to emphasize the student's stance more convincingly. Task Achievement Band Score: 6.5

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay is generally coherent, with a logical structure including an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. However, the transitions between ideas can be improved for greater coherence. For instance, phrases like "despite these arguments" could be expanded to better link the arguments. The use of linking words is somewhat present, but more varied cohesive devices would help create smoother connections between sentences and ideas. Coherence and Cohesion Band Score: 6.0

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary used is somewhat varied but lacks precision in places. Terms like "atmosphere problem" should be revised to "environmental problem" for clarity. Additionally, phrases like "this can disturb" could be more specific, such as "this disturbance can lead to..." to enhance the expression. While there are attempts at topic-specific vocabulary, it's inconsistently applied, indicating a need for further lexical resource development. Lexical Resource Band Score: 6.5

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The grammatical range is satisfactory, with mostly correct sentence structures; however, there are several grammatical errors, such as "the main atmosphere problem of our is..." which disrupt fluidity. Minor punctuation mistakes also appear, particularly in the listing of issues (e.g., "climate change, air pollution and global warming") which should include a comma before 'and'. Varied sentence structures are used, but continuous practice on complex sentences would enhance the range further. Grammatical Range Accuracy Band Score: 6.0

Overall feedback

Your essay presents a clear discussion of both perspectives regarding environmental issues. You successfully argue that while the loss of species is significant, broader problems like climate change and pollution have a much larger impact. To improve, focus on providing stronger examples and elaborating on your points for better clarity and depth. Additionally, pay attention to grammatical accuracy and varied vocabulary use to enhance your overall score. Use linking phrases effectively to connect your ideas and improve coherence. Overall, you are on the right track, and with attention to these details, you can achieve a higher band score.

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

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