Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-30

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 7.5)

The rapid deterioration of the natural environment has become a major global concern. While some people argue that the extinction of particular species of plants and animals is the most serious environmental problem of our time, others believe that broader issues, such as climate change and pollution, deserve greater attention. Although the loss of biodiversity is undoubtedly a serious concern, I believe that climate change and large-scale pollution are more pressing because of their far-reaching consequences for both ecosystems and human societies.

On the one hand, the disappearance of individual plant and animal species can have profound ecological consequences. Every species plays a particular role within an ecosystem, and the removal of one can disrupt food chains and affect the survival of other organisms. For example, the decline of bee populations in many parts of the world is concerning because bees are important pollinators for numerous crops and wild plants. If such species were to disappear on a large scale, agricultural productivity and the stability of natural ecosystems could be adversely affected. Furthermore, once a species becomes extinct, it is impossible to restore it naturally, meaning that the loss is permanent. For these reasons, protecting endangered species is an essential part of preserving biodiversity and maintaining healthy ecosystems.

On the other hand, there are environmental problems whose effects are considerably broader and more immediate. Climate change, for instance, can alter temperatures, rainfall patterns and sea levels across entire regions, threatening not only wildlife but also human settlements, agriculture and economies. Similarly, air, water and soil pollution can affect millions of people simultaneously. The widespread use of fossil fuels, for example, contributes to greenhouse-gas emissions while also producing air pollution that can damage human health. These problems can therefore create a chain of consequences in which environmental degradation, food insecurity, economic disruption and health problems reinforce one another. Tackling such large-scale issues could consequently protect numerous species at the same time, making them a particularly important priority.

In conclusion, the extinction of plants and animals is a serious and irreversible environmental problem, particularly because biodiversity is essential to the functioning of ecosystems. Nevertheless, I believe that climate change and widespread pollution are more significant concerns because their effects extend across entire ecosystems and human populations. Addressing these broader problems would also help prevent further species loss and therefore provide a more comprehensive approach to environmental protection.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views on environmental problems—specifically the loss of biodiversity versus broader issues like climate change and pollution—and clearly presents a well-supported personal opinion throughout. In the introduction, the writer establishes a clear stance that climate change and pollution are more pressing. Body paragraph one explores the ecological consequences of species loss, citing the decline of bee populations as a relevant example. Body paragraph two examines broader issues like climate change and pollution, highlighting their far-reaching impacts on human societies and ecosystems. Ideas are well-developed, extended, and supported with logical explanations, making this a strong performance corresponding to the Band 8 descriptor.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a clear logical organization and progression throughout. Information and ideas are coherently structured, starting with a comprehensive introduction, moving through balanced body paragraphs, and concluding with a clear summary of the writer's stance. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph having a distinct central topic. Cohesive devices are managed well, using transition signals such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'For example', and 'In conclusion' naturally to guide the reader through the argument. Referencing is clear and unambiguous, ensuring seamless reading from start to finish.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.5

The writer uses a wide, fluent, and flexible range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic discussion on environmental topics. Less common items such as 'deterioration', 'biodiversity', 'profound ecological consequences', 'agricultural productivity', and 'environmental degradation' are used skillfully with strong awareness of collocation. Word choice is generally precise, with only occasional minor inaccuracies. Spelling and word formation are entirely accurate throughout the text, allowing the reader to follow the arguments effortlessly. The lexical range comfortably satisfies the criteria for a high band score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of complex sentence structures, including conditional clauses ('If such species were to disappear...'), concessive clauses ('Although the loss of biodiversity is undoubtedly...'), and relative clauses, handled with a high degree of control. The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is managed effectively. While there are a few very minor stylistic infelicities, they do not impede communication or detract from the sophisticated flow of the text. The grammatical control is solid and demonstrates a secure grasp of complex syntax.

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