Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-08-23

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)

In the modern world, some people believe that the loss of particular species of plants and animals is the main environmental problem. Others argue that there are other environmental problems which are more important. This issue has become increasingly common and has attracted significant public attention. It has become a topic of widespread debate due to its impact on individuals and society. This essay will discuss both views and state my opinion.

To commence, one of the major reasons why some people believe that the loss of plants and animals is the main environmental problem is that many species are becoming endangered. In other words, human activities such as cutting trees and destroying forests can affect the natural habitat of animals. As a result, some animals and plants may disappear from the environment. For example, deforestation can reduce the number of forests where wild animals live. Therefore, protecting different species is important for maintaining the balance of nature.

On the other hand, others believe that there are more important environmental problems, such as air pollution and climate change. This is because these problems can affect a large number of people and can create serious health issues. For instance, air pollution from vehicles and factories can cause breathing problems and also damage the environment. Moreover, climate change can lead to higher temperatures and extreme weather conditions. Hence, these environmental problems should also be considered serious and require immediate action.

In conclusion, although the loss of plants and animals is a serious environmental problem, I believe that other issues such as air pollution and climate change are more important because they can affect both people and the environment on a large scale.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. The ideas are relevant, such as the impact of deforestation on biodiversity and the health implications of air pollution. However, the development is somewhat basic. While the arguments are clear, they lack depth and specific examples beyond general statements. To reach a higher band, you should expand on your points with more detailed explanations or concrete real-world examples. For instance, instead of just mentioning 'air pollution,' you could discuss the global impact of carbon emissions on melting ice caps or specific international agreements. The position is consistent throughout the essay.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the progression of ideas is easy to follow. You use a range of cohesive devices such as 'To commence,' 'In other words,' 'On the other hand,' and 'Moreover,' which help guide the reader. However, some of the transitions feel slightly mechanical or repetitive. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the referencing is clear. To improve, try to vary your linking phrases and ensure that the connection between sentences is more fluid rather than relying on standard signposting words.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary used is adequate for the task and allows for clear communication. You demonstrate a good grasp of topic-specific terms like 'endangered,' 'natural habitat,' 'deforestation,' and 'extreme weather conditions.' However, the range is somewhat limited, and there is a reliance on common, everyday language. To achieve a higher score, you should aim to incorporate more sophisticated or 'less common' lexical items and collocations. For example, instead of 'main environmental problem,' you could use 'paramount ecological concern.' The spelling is accurate throughout, and there are no significant errors that impede meaning.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The essay displays a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. You use subordinate clauses effectively, such as 'although the loss of plants and animals is a serious environmental problem...' and 'because these problems can affect a large number of people.' The grammar is generally accurate, with very few errors. Most sentences are error-free, which is a positive sign. To move into the higher bands, ensure you use a wider variety of complex structures, such as passive voice or conditional sentences, with consistent accuracy. Your punctuation is correct, and the overall control of grammar is strong.

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