Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-09-28

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)

There is no doubt that environmental awareness has increased dramatically in recent years. Many people are now making conscious efforts to live more sustainably, and this has led to a significant growth in eco-tourism. I largely agree that this trend is positive, although I believe it also brings certain challenges.The main reason I support the expansion of eco-tourism is that it encourages both environmental protection and responsible travel. Unlike mass tourism, which often damages fragile ecosystems through overcrowding and pollution, eco-tourism is designed to minimize harm. For example, eco-lodges in places like Costa Rica or northern Pakistan use renewable energy, limit visitor numbers, and employ local guides. This not only preserves natural habitats but also educates tourists about conservation. When travelers see endangered species or pristine forests firsthand, they are more likely to value and protect the environment when they return home.Furthermore, eco-tourism provides substantial economic benefits to local communities, which in turn motivates them to protect their environment. In many rural areas, people previously relied on activities like deforestation or poaching for income. However, if they can earn a stable living by working as guides, running homestays, or selling handicrafts to eco-tourists, they have a financial incentive to conserve their natural resources. Therefore, the industry creates a win-win situation where both the economy and the ecology benefit.Admittedly, there are drawbacks if eco-tourism is not properly regulated. The term "eco-friendly" is sometimes used merely as a marketing strategy, known as greenwashing, to attract customers without actually following sustainable practices. If too many tourists visit even remote areas, it can still lead to soil erosion, disturbance to wildlife, and increased waste. Hence, governments need to enforce strict regulations and certifications to ensure the industry remains genuinely sustainable.In conclusion, I strongly agree that the rise of eco-consciousness has fuelled the growth of eco-tourism, and I view this development as largely beneficial. While careful management is essential to avoid exploitation, eco-tourism has the potential to protect the planet and support local economies at the same time.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing the extent to which the expansion of eco-tourism is a positive trend. The writer presents a clear position right from the introduction ('I largely agree that this trend is positive, although I believe it also brings certain challenges') and maintains it throughout the essay. Ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as referencing eco-lodges in Costa Rica or northern Pakistan, and explaining the economic incentives that reduce deforestation and poaching. The counter-argument regarding greenwashing and lack of regulation is also well-integrated and adds depth to the discussion. There are no omissions, and the task is thoroughly covered.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organization and progression throughout. Information and ideas are coherently linked across paragraphs, utilizing effective transitional devices such as 'Unlike mass tourism', 'Furthermore', 'Admittedly', and 'In conclusion'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each body paragraph dedicated to a distinct sub-topic (environmental benefits, economic benefits, and potential drawbacks/regulation). Cohesive devices are managed well without becoming mechanical or overly repetitive, and referencing is clear throughout the entire text.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.0

The writer demonstrates a wide and flexible range of vocabulary suited to an academic discussion on tourism and the environment. Less common items and collocations are used skillfully, such as 'environmental awareness', 'fragile ecosystems', 'endangered species', 'economic benefits', and 'greenwashing'. Word choice is generally precise, and spelling is accurate throughout. There are only occasional minor limitations or standard collocations, but the overall lexical control easily meets the requirements for a high band score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response displays a wide range of structures, including complex sentences with multiple clauses (e.g., conditional structures, relative clauses, and concessive clauses). The majority of sentences are error-free, demonstrating a high level of control over grammar and punctuation. Minor slips are extremely rare, and complex structures are handled naturally without causing ambiguity or impeding communication. The punctuation is sound, and subject-verb agreement is maintained throughout the text.

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