Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-16

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 7.0)

Some people believe that the loss of certain plant and animal species is the most serious environmental problem today, while others argue that there are more important issues. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe that environmental problems such as climate change and pollution are more urgent.

On the one hand, the disappearance of plant and animal species is a serious problem because every species plays a role in nature. When one species becomes extinct, it can affect other animals and plants that depend on it. This may disturb the natural balance of an ecosystem. In addition, some plants and animals may have useful benefits for humans, such as providing food or helping scientists develop medicines. For example, the destruction of forests can cause many wild animals to lose their natural homes, which may eventually lead to their extinction.

On the other hand, there are several environmental problems that can affect a much larger number of people. Climate change, air pollution and water pollution are particularly important examples. Rising temperatures can cause extreme weather, floods and droughts, while polluted air can lead to serious health problems. These issues can affect entire cities and countries rather than only particular species. For instance, heavy air pollution in large cities can reduce people's quality of life and increase the risk of breathing problems.

In my opinion, although the loss of species should not be ignored, problems such as climate change and pollution are more immediate because they directly affect both humans and the natural environment. Moreover, these problems can also be a major cause of species loss, meaning that solving them could help protect wildlife as well.

In conclusion, the loss of plant and animal species is an important environmental concern because it can damage ecosystems. However, I believe that climate change and different forms of pollution deserve greater attention because of their wider effects on people and nature.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views—that species loss is the primary environmental problem and that other issues are more significant—while also presenting a clear, well-developed personal position. The introduction clearly outlines the essay structure. Body paragraph one logically explains the first view regarding ecosystem balance and human benefits, while body paragraph two discusses the broader impacts of climate change and pollution. The writer's stance is maintained consistently throughout the essay, culminating in a logical synthesis in the conclusion. Ideas are extended with relevant examples, such as the destruction of forests leading to loss of natural habitats, and heavy air pollution increasing breathing problems. The response satisfies all criteria for a Band 7.0 in Task Achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The response exhibits a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are coherently linked, starting with a clear introductory paragraph, followed by two well-developed body paragraphs presenting contrasting views, a reasoning paragraph, and a concise concluding paragraph. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'In addition', and 'Moreover' are used effectively to guide the reader through the arguments. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring each paragraph has a distinct central topic. Referencing is clear and unambiguous. This performance aligns comfortably with the Band 7.0 descriptors for Coherence and Cohesion.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student demonstrates an adequate to sufficient range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic discussion on environmental issues. Terms such as 'extinction', 'ecosystem', 'climate change', 'air pollution', and 'sustainable' are used correctly. There are successful attempts to use less common lexical items like 'disappearance', 'disturb the natural balance', and 'immediate'. Word choice is generally precise, although some phrasing leans slightly towards general or repetitive usage (e.g., repeating 'environmental problems'). Spelling and word formation are entirely accurate throughout the text, ensuring that communication is never hindered. This demonstrates the characteristics of a solid Band 7.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, including conditional or concessive clauses (e.g., 'When one species becomes extinct, it can affect other animals...', 'although the loss of species should not be ignored...'). There are frequent error-free sentences, and the overall control of grammar and punctuation is strong. Simple and complex forms are mixed effectively to communicate ideas clearly. Minor slips or awkward phrasings are virtually absent, and punctuation is handled correctly throughout. The grammatical control demonstrated here easily meets the requirements for a Band 7.0.

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