Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-20

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

The best way to provide enough homes in large cities is to build tall apartment blocks.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

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

Student answer (Band 8.0)

The rapid growth of urban populations has created a serious housing shortage in many major cities. Some people argue that constructing tall apartment blocks is the most effective way to accommodate this growing population. I largely agree with this view because high-rise buildings make efficient use of limited land, although I believe they should form part of a broader urban planning strategy.

The strongest argument in favour of high-rise housing is that it allows cities to accommodate large numbers of people without consuming excessive amounts of land. Land in major urban centres is often scarce and prohibitively expensive, making horizontal expansion increasingly impractical. By building upwards, governments and developers can provide thousands of homes within relatively small areas. This can also help preserve agricultural land and natural habitats on the outskirts of cities. Furthermore, high-density housing can be located near public transport networks, workplaces and essential services, potentially reducing both commuting times and dependence on private cars.

Nevertheless, building taller is not necessarily the ideal solution in every circumstance. Excessive reliance on high-rise developments can lead to overcrowded neighbourhoods and place considerable pressure on infrastructure, including roads, schools, hospitals and public transport. Poorly planned apartment complexes may also offer limited access to green spaces and can negatively affect residents' quality of life. In addition, some families may prefer houses with private outdoor areas, particularly those with young children. Consequently, simply constructing more skyscrapers without considering the wider urban environment could create as many problems as it solves.

In my view, the most effective approach is therefore a combination of high-density and medium-density development. Tall apartment blocks are particularly appropriate in central areas where land is scarce and public transport is well developed. At the same time, governments should encourage the construction of medium-rise housing in suburban areas, convert unused buildings into residential properties, and invest in transport infrastructure so that new communities remain well connected. Every new residential development should also incorporate parks, schools and other essential facilities.

In conclusion, I agree to a great extent that tall apartment blocks are one of the best ways to address housing shortages in large cities, primarily because they maximise the use of scarce urban land. However, they should not be viewed as a universal solution. A combination of high-rise, medium-rise and carefully planned suburban housing would be more sustainable and would provide a better quality of life for urban residents.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

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 arguments are well-developed, particularly the balance between the benefits of high-density living and the potential drawbacks regarding infrastructure and quality of life. You have provided a nuanced perspective by suggesting a combination of high-density and medium-density development, which demonstrates a high level of critical thinking. The ideas are relevant, well-supported, and logically extended, meeting all the requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the benefits of high-rise buildings and the counter-arguments is handled smoothly using appropriate cohesive devices like 'Nevertheless' and 'In addition'. The use of referencing is precise, and the paragraphing is skillful, ensuring that the reader can follow your argument without any confusion. The flow is natural and professional, reflecting a high level of control over the structure of an academic essay.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which is used with precision and naturalness. Phrases such as 'prohibitively expensive', 'horizontal expansion', 'urban planning strategy', and 'universal solution' are used accurately and in the correct context. There is a clear awareness of style and collocation, and you avoid repetitive language. The vocabulary is sophisticated enough to convey complex ideas clearly, and there are no noticeable errors in word choice or spelling throughout the entire response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of complex grammatical structures, including conditional sentences, relative clauses, and varied sentence beginnings. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation is excellent. You use complex structures to convey nuanced arguments without losing clarity. There are no significant grammatical errors, and the few minor slips that might occur are non-systematic and do not impede communication in any way. The overall grammatical control is highly consistent and sophisticated.

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