Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-07-28

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Concern for the environment is growing and more and more people are choosing to recycle. But some people suggest that recycling is not enough. They believe we need to consume less.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.

Student answer (Band 8.5)

Due to the concern for the environment, an increasing number of people are choosing to recycle, whereas I would argue that solely depending on recycling cannot fundamentally change the current situation, and that we need to reduce consumption at the same time.

First and foremost, it is worth acknowledging the significance of recycling. Not only can this approach make the most of a variety of resources but it can also reduce the negative impact of human activities on the environment. For instance, many marine animals are on the verge of extinction because of eating plastic waste released by factories. If households and factories separate recyclable waste from other waste first, this phenomenon will not be repeated in the future. Additionally, the resources saved by recycling can even be used for supporting animal conservation.

Besides recycling, reducing consumption is the key to preserving the natural environment and wildlife. To illustrate this, if we can reduce unnecessary waste of water and other natural resources, manufacturers will accordingly reduce the number of activities that damage forests, cutting fewer trees, which can absorb greenhouse gases and generate oxygen. In addition, a decreased level of deforestation can preserve more natural habitats for wild animals. The number of tigers in the north of China, for example, has been increasing since the government started encouraging the general public to use less and implementing strict policies on factories. As a result, humanity will be less likely to face resource depletion and our future generations may still be able to appreciate other species.

In conclusion, in order to protect the environment, governments ought to promote the idea of recycling and encourage citizens to use less because this comprehensive approach might be able to fundamentally improve animal welfare and save more environmental resources, which is aligned with the concept of sustainability.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both the importance of recycling and the necessity of reducing consumption. Your position is clear from the introduction and is maintained throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, particularly the link between reduced consumption and the preservation of natural habitats. To reach a higher band, you could provide more specific, real-world examples of how individuals can reduce consumption beyond general statements, as the current examples are slightly broad. Overall, the task is fully addressed with a logical progression of ideas that supports your central argument effectively.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, two distinct body paragraphs, and a conclusion. You use cohesive devices effectively, such as 'First and foremost', 'Additionally', and 'To illustrate this', which help guide the reader through your argument. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the two main viewpoints. The progression of ideas is smooth, and referencing is clear throughout. The flow is natural, and the use of linking words is neither mechanical nor repetitive, which demonstrates a good command of organizational features.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic task. Phrases such as 'on the verge of extinction', 'resource depletion', and 'concept of sustainability' show an ability to use less common lexical items with precision. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation that impede communication. While the vocabulary is sufficient and precise, incorporating a few more sophisticated idiomatic expressions or nuanced collocations could elevate the response further. Overall, the lexical range is flexible and effectively conveys your meaning.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The essay displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as conditional sentences ('If households... this phenomenon will not be repeated') and relative clauses. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and grammar is strong. There are very few, if any, grammatical slips, and the structures used are appropriate for the task. The clarity of your writing is maintained throughout, and the complexity of the sentences demonstrates a high level of grammatical competence.

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