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)

There are differing opinions on whether the main environmental problem in the present day is the loss of specific species of plants and animals. While some people believe that there are many other crucial environmental factors. This essay will examine both the perspectives before concluding with my own opinion.

On the one hand, the loss of plants and animals can lead to detrimental effects on biodiversity. This is mainly because the food chain, dependent on certain plants and animals, can get disrupted, causing danger to the lives of multiple organisms. For instance, multiple research studies conducted on the importance of the conservation of forests have revealed that the loss of endangered species not only hinders the environment but also causes severe economic loss. In addition, the industries related to food and animals would also face massive problems, because people employed in the animal industry and agricultural sectors will suffer due to less revenue.

On the other hand, there are several other environmental problems that need significant attention, such as global warming. The reason for this is emissions of greenhouse gases from oil and coal, which are causing air pollution as well as harming humans' health. Although there are other factors that need significant attention, focusing on particular species of plants and animals is extremely important, as they can help tackle most of the environmental problems. For example, planting more trees can help reduce carbon footprints and produce more oxygen to help mitigate issues related to global warming. Therefore, integrating a balanced approach into the society can help resolve most of the problems.

In conclusion, while both viewpoints have merit, I believe that implementing a balanced approach is more convincing, and this would help safeguard the environment and the habitat.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. The ideas are relevant, such as the link between biodiversity and economic stability, and the connection between reforestation and global warming. However, the development is somewhat uneven. The argument regarding economic loss in the first body paragraph is a bit generic and could have been supported with more specific examples. The conclusion is brief but clearly states your position. To reach a higher band, ensure that each supporting point is fully explored with more depth and specific evidence rather than relying on general statements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the two viewpoints. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand,' 'In addition,' and 'Therefore' are used effectively to guide the reader through the argument. However, some transitions feel slightly mechanical, and the referencing could be more sophisticated. For instance, the link between the two body paragraphs could be smoother to better highlight the contrast between the two perspectives. Overall, the progression of ideas is clear and easy to follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'detrimental effects,' 'biodiversity,' 'mitigate,' and 'greenhouse gases' correctly. The language is generally precise and conveys your meaning well. There are no significant spelling errors. To improve, try to incorporate more sophisticated collocations or less common lexical items to show greater flexibility. For example, instead of 'massive problems,' you could use 'severe socio-economic repercussions.' The current vocabulary is sufficient but lacks the stylistic flair required for the higher bands.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Most sentences are grammatically accurate, and errors are rare and do not impede communication. For example, the sentence 'While some people believe that there are many other crucial environmental factors' is a sentence fragment as it lacks a main clause. Additionally, 'integrating a balanced approach into the society' is slightly unnatural; 'into society' would be better. You have good control over punctuation and basic grammar, but increasing the variety of complex structures, such as using more conditional or passive constructions, would enhance your score.

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

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