Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-23

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 7.0)

The loss of particular species of plants and animals is considered by some people to be the most serious environmental problem of our time. However, others believe that issues such as climate change and pollution are more important. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe environmental problems are closely connected and should be addressed together.

On the one hand, the extinction of plant and animal species can have serious consequences for the natural environment. Every species plays a role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem. For example, the disappearance of bees and other insects could affect pollination, which is essential for the growth of many crops. Similarly, the loss of predators can cause certain animal populations to increase excessively, disturbing the food chain. Therefore, protecting endangered species is important for maintaining biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.

On the other hand, there are environmental problems that affect a much larger number of people directly. Climate change, air pollution, water pollution and deforestation are major examples. Global warming can lead to rising temperatures, extreme weather and rising sea levels, while air pollution can cause serious health problems. In cities such as Kathmandu, for instance, poor air quality is a significant concern for residents. These problems can also contribute to the destruction of natural habitats and eventually cause species to disappear.

In my opinion, although the loss of species is a serious issue, it should not be considered separately from other environmental problems. Climate change, pollution and habitat destruction are often major causes of biodiversity loss. Consequently, governments should adopt policies that reduce pollution, protect forests and limit greenhouse gas emissions while also protecting endangered species.

In conclusion, the extinction of plants and animals is an important environmental concern, but problems such as climate change and pollution are equally significant because they affect both humans and wildlife. A combined approach is therefore necessary to protect the environment effectively.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views—the loss of species as the primary environmental problem versus other issues like climate change and pollution—and clearly states the writer's own opinion that these problems are interconnected. Ideas are well developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the role of bees in pollination and air quality issues in Kathmandu. The position is clear throughout the essay, demonstrating a high level of task fulfillment. The ideas are extended and supported effectively, satisfying the Band 8 descriptor for Task Achievement by covering all parts of the prompt well.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression from introduction to body paragraphs discussing each view, followed by the writer's perspective and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly without being obtrusive, as seen with transition phrases like 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'Consequently'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct central topic. The referencing throughout the text is clear, ensuring that the reader can easily follow the flow of arguments. Overall, the essay meets the criteria for Band 7.5 or 8, and solid paragraphing and logical sequencing secure a strong Band 7.5 score.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary for the task, including less common items and subject-specific terminology such as 'biodiversity', 'extinction', 'ecosystem', and 'greenhouse gas emissions'. Word choice is generally precise, with accurate collocations like 'maintaining the balance' and 'disturbing the food chain'. There are occasional slight generalities, but no recurring errors that impede communication. The lexical range is flexible enough to allow for precise expression, aligning well with the Band 7 descriptors.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.0

The writer uses a good variety of complex sentence structures, including conditional and subordinate clauses (e.g., 'while air pollution can cause serious health problems' and 'although the loss of species is a serious issue, it should not be considered separately'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled competently throughout the response. Grammatical control is strong, with only very occasional minor slips or awkwardness that do not hinder understanding. This level of structural variety and accuracy comfortably places the grammar within the Band 7.5 to 8 range.

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