Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · 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 8.0)

As society advances, there has been widespread worry about the state of our environment and several courses of action have been taken in hopes of dealing with the damage, such as recycling. However, there are those who worry that this may not be enough to cure the wound, and believe that reduced consumption would be the most impactful action to be taken. This essay will discuss both viewpoints thoroughly, and will shed light on how even recycling can be enough if done correctly.

Throughout the course of the previous decades, the recycling movement has seen greater attention as pollution and severe environmental regression has become worryingly prominent in our life. It comes as no surprise that plastic plays a significant role in the damage our environment is facing, and so our first instinct ought to be to recycle our trash rather than letting it pile up in landfills. Due to this, several countries, namely Switzerland, have taken it upon themselves to encourage frequent recycling. This can be seen in the spread of categorised trashcans, often for paper, plastic or miscellaneous items. I am of the belief that if more countries worked on providing such encouragement towards the act, then surely a change will be seen, even if it is small. There is no issue in moving towards sustainability one step at a time.

On the other hand, several people would disagree with this prospect, claiming that it would take an eternity to witness great developments if our progress was so limited. Therefore, they preach about how decreased consumption would see greater results faster. It is no secret that we would benefit immensely from decreasing our carbon footprint. It could be in the form of opting for public transport over consuming so much gas for a mere ten-minute solo ride. It could also be as significant as investing in solar panels and other forms of renewable energy. Moreover, it would be quite beneficial to look into catalysts to decrease the release of carbon and harmful toxins into the atmosphere from our cars. However, it is important to note that such movements can be extremely expensive, and so only few would be able to go forward with reducing consumption. Hence, it may not be the suitable option for everyone.

To conclude, as our environment continues to suffer the consequences of our own actions, there are many who encourage the act of recycling as a way of combating pollution and climate change. Nevertheless, there are many who believe that we must opt for greater sustainable methods, such as reduced consumption and conserving our carbon footprint. However, in a time where doing so could be quite costly, I think it is sufficient to recycle if we all did it simultaneously and with intent and longevity.

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 argument for reduced consumption. You clearly state your position in the introduction and maintain it throughout. The ideas are relevant and well-supported with examples like Switzerland's recycling system and the use of public transport. However, the development of the 'reduced consumption' argument could be more balanced; while you acknowledge the cost, you could further explore the long-term environmental impact of this approach to provide a more comprehensive discussion. Overall, the task is fully addressed with a clear, consistent viewpoint.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the progression of ideas is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Throughout the course of', 'On the other hand', and 'Moreover', which help guide the reader through your argument. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the two viewpoints. The referencing is generally clear, and the flow between sentences is natural, contributing to a coherent and well-structured response.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary, using terms like 'environmental regression', 'sustainability', 'carbon footprint', and 'catalysts' appropriately. There is an attempt to use less common lexical items, which adds precision to your writing. While some phrasing is slightly informal (e.g., 'cure the wound'), the overall word choice is accurate and helps convey your meaning effectively. There are no significant spelling errors, and the vocabulary is sufficient to discuss the topic with flexibility and precision.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures effectively. Examples such as 'I am of the belief that if more countries worked on providing such encouragement... then surely a change will be seen' show good control over complex grammar. Punctuation is generally accurate, and the majority of your sentences are error-free. While there are occasional minor slips, such as 'only few would be able' (which should be 'only a few'), these do not impede communication or cause confusion. Your control over grammar is consistent throughout the essay.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.