Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-08-21
IELTS Writing Task 2 question
Concern for the environment is growing rapidly and more and more people are choosing to be 'eco-tourists' - travelling in responsible, environmentally-friendly ways. As a result, the eco-tourism industry is expanding.
To what extent do you think this is a positive trend?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Student answer (Band 7.5)
The surge in global environmental awareness has driven a remarkable rise in eco-tourism, where travelers prioritize sustainable practices. I firmly believe this is a overwhelmingly positive development, as it fosters nature conservation and strengthens local economies, provided it is managed responsibly.
First, eco-tourism generates vital funding for environmental protection. Unlike traditional mass tourism, which often degrades ecosystems through overdevelopment, sustainable travel redirects revenue into preserving natural habitats. For instance, entry fees to national parks and marine reserves in Costa Rica directly fund wildlife preservation efforts and combat deforestation. Furthermore, exposure to these pristine environments heightens travelers’ environmental consciousness, inspiring long-term eco-friendly habits.
Second, this trend provides significant socioeconomic benefits to host communities. Eco-tourism encourages employment for local residents as tour guides, hospitality workers, and artisans, reducing reliance on environmentally destructive industries such as logging or intensive agriculture. Consequently, native populations gain a direct financial incentive to safeguard their natural heritage rather than exploit it.
However, the rapid expansion of this sector carries minor risks. "Greenwashing"—where companies falsely advertise unsustainable services as eco-friendly—can mislead conscientious travelers and cause unintentional ecological harm. Additionally, excessive foot traffic in fragile areas can still disturb local biodiversity.
In conclusion, the growth of eco-tourism represents an extraordinarily positive shift toward responsible travel. Although careful oversight is necessary to prevent greenwashing and over-tourism, its ability to fund conservation and empower local populations makes it a vital tool for environmental sustainability.
Key Band 7 Features Used:
Lexical Resource: environmental awareness, sustainable practices, socioeconomic benefits, conscientious travelers, greenwashing, ecological harm.
Coherence & Cohesion: Clear paragraphing with transition devices (First, Furthermore, Consequently, However, In conclusion).
Grammatical Range: Mix of complex sentences, conditionals, and passive voice structures.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.5 |
| Overall | 7.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5
The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have taken a clear position from the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, particularly the points regarding funding for conservation and socioeconomic benefits for local communities. The inclusion of a counter-argument regarding 'greenwashing' adds depth and demonstrates a sophisticated approach to the topic. The arguments are extended with relevant examples, such as the reference to Costa Rica, which provides concrete evidence to support your claims. The response is balanced and demonstrates a high level of task fulfillment.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition devices such as 'First', 'Furthermore', 'Consequently', and 'However' are used effectively to guide the reader through your argument. The use of paragraphing is appropriate, and the internal cohesion within sentences is strong. There is a natural flow of information, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes the main points without introducing new information. The structure is clear and professional, meeting the requirements for a high band score.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.5
You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which is used with precision. Phrases such as 'environmental awareness', 'sustainable practices', 'socioeconomic benefits', and 'conscientious travelers' are used naturally and accurately. The inclusion of the term 'greenwashing' is particularly effective and demonstrates an awareness of specific, topic-related terminology. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the vocabulary contributes significantly to the overall clarity and sophistication of the essay.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5
The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences, conditional clauses, and passive voice constructions. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over punctuation and syntax is excellent. For example, the sentence 'Unlike traditional mass tourism, which often degrades ecosystems through overdevelopment, sustainable travel redirects revenue into preserving natural habitats' is grammatically complex and perfectly executed. There are no significant errors that impede communication, and the overall control of grammar is highly consistent.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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