Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-29
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 environment is facing several serious problems, and there is debate about which one should receive the greatest attention. Some people believe that the extinction of plant and animal species is the most important issue, while others argue that environmental problems such as climate change and pollution are more urgent. This essay will discuss both views before giving my opinion.
On the one hand, the loss of particular species can have serious consequences for the natural environment. Every species plays a role in maintaining ecological balance, and the disappearance of one species may affect many others in the same ecosystem. For example, the decline of bees could reduce pollination, which would negatively affect the growth of many crops and plants. Furthermore, once a species becomes extinct, it cannot be restored naturally.
On the other hand, there are broader environmental problems that directly affect both humans and wildlife. Climate change, air pollution and water contamination are already creating widespread damage. Rising temperatures can cause droughts, floods and extreme weather, while polluted air contributes to respiratory diseases. For instance, large cities often experience dangerous levels of air pollution because of traffic and industrial activities.
In my opinion, although species loss is a major environmental concern, climate change and pollution are more immediate because they affect entire ecosystems as well as human populations. Therefore, governments and individuals should focus on reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions while also protecting endangered species.
In conclusion, both species extinction and other environmental problems are important. However, addressing larger issues such as climate change and pollution can also help prevent further damage to plants and animals.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.0 |
| Overall | 7.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.0
The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views on environmental problems and clearly presenting the writer's own opinion. The position is well maintained throughout the essay. Ideas are well developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the decline of bees affecting pollination and the impact of climate change on extreme weather and human health. The arguments are logical and directly answer the prompt. The response meets all task requirements with appropriate depth in each paragraph. Therefore, this performance comfortably achieves a Band 7.5.
Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5
The essay demonstrates clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information is coherently sequenced, starting with an introductory paragraph, followed by balanced body paragraphs addressing each viewpoint, a well-stated personal opinion, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and appropriately, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Furthermore', and 'In my opinion'. Paragraphing is logical, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct central theme. There is some minor repetition in the conclusion, but overall cohesion is well managed, supporting a solid Band 7.0 score.
Lexical Resource: Band 6.5
The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with adequate flexibility and precision for an Academic Task 2 essay. Appropriate topic-specific vocabulary is integrated throughout, including terms like 'extinction', 'ecological balance', 'ecosystem', 'pollination', 'water contamination', and 'greenhouse gas emissions'. There are occasional attempts at less common phrasing, such as 'respiratory diseases' and 'industrial activities'. Word choice is generally natural, and spelling is accurate. While it lacks the sophistication and rare lexical items typical of higher bands, the vocabulary is fully adequate for a Band 7.0.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.0
The response displays a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, demonstrating sound control over grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex sentences include 'Although species loss is a major environmental concern, climate change and pollution are more immediate because they affect entire ecosystems...' and 'Every species plays a role in maintaining ecological balance, and the disappearance of one species may affect many others...'. There is a high frequency of error-free sentences, and punctuation is handled correctly throughout. The minor structural limitations keep it just below Band 8, making Band 7.5 an accurate descriptor.
See this exact question answered at other band scores. The same prompt compared across bands.
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