Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-01
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)
The loss of particular species of plants and animals is regarded by some people as the most pressing environmental problem of our time, whereas others believe that more serious environmental issues exist. Although the extinction of species is undoubtedly a significant concern, I believe that broader problems such as climate change and environmental pollution pose a greater threat because of their far-reaching consequences for both humans and ecosystems.
On the one hand, the disappearance of plant and animal species is a serious environmental issue. Human activities such as deforestation, illegal hunting, overfishing and the destruction of natural habitats have caused populations of many species to decline dramatically. Once a species becomes extinct, it cannot be restored, and this can disrupt entire ecosystems. For example, the disappearance of certain predators can lead to an excessive increase in their prey, ultimately disturbing the balance of an ecosystem. Furthermore, many species may possess genetic or medicinal properties that could benefit humanity in the future, meaning that their loss may deprive society of potentially valuable resources.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 6.5 |
| Overall | 6.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0
The response is significantly under the 250-word minimum requirement, containing only 172 words. Because the essay is incomplete, it fails to address all parts of the task. While you have introduced the topic and discussed the first viewpoint, you have not provided a paragraph for the second viewpoint (other environmental problems) or a conclusion. Consequently, the position is not fully developed, and the task is only partially addressed. To improve, you must ensure you cover both sides of the argument and provide a clear, supported conclusion while meeting the length requirement.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0
The essay shows a logical progression within the introduction and the first body paragraph. You have used cohesive devices effectively, such as 'On the one hand', 'Furthermore', and 'For example', which help guide the reader. However, because the essay is incomplete, the overall structure is missing the necessary balance and final synthesis. Paragraphing is used correctly for the sections provided, but the lack of a second body paragraph and a conclusion prevents the essay from achieving a higher score for coherence and cohesion.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.5
Your vocabulary is generally accurate and appropriate for an academic context. You have used terms like 'pressing environmental problem', 'far-reaching consequences', 'disrupt entire ecosystems', and 'genetic or medicinal properties' with precision. The range is adequate for the length provided, and there are no significant spelling or word-choice errors. To reach a higher band, you should aim to incorporate a wider range of less common lexical items and demonstrate more flexibility in your word choices as you expand your arguments in future essays.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5
The grammar is strong, with a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. You have used subordinate clauses effectively, such as 'Although the extinction of species is undoubtedly a significant concern, I believe that...' and 'Once a species becomes extinct, it cannot be restored'. The sentences are largely error-free, and your control over punctuation and syntax is good. The grammatical range is sufficient, and the errors are minimal, which indicates a solid grasp of English grammar suitable for a higher band if the length and task requirements were met.
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