Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-26

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 assertion that constructing high-rise apartment blocks is the optimal solution to urban housing shortages is widely debated. While vertical development is undeniably necessary in densely populated metropolises, I only partially agree with this statement, as it overlooks critical social and infrastructural dimensions of sustainable urban living.

Admittedly, tall buildings offer a pragmatic response to land scarcity. In cities like Tokyo or Singapore, where horizontal expansion is geographically or economically unfeasible, high-density residential towers maximise limited space and can accommodate thousands within a small footprint. Furthermore, concentrating populations vertically can improve the efficiency of public transport and utility networks, reducing per-capita infrastructure costs and curbing urban sprawl that consumes agricultural land.

However, labeling high-rises as the "best" solution is reductive. Sole reliance on vertical density often exacerbates social isolation, inadequate natural light, and strain on local services such as schools and hospitals. More importantly, housing adequacy encompasses not just quantity but also affordability, community cohesion, and long-term livability. Alternative or complementary strategies - such as adaptive reuse of industrial buildings, incentivising medium-density "missing middle" housing, and reforming zoning laws to allow mixed-use neighbourhoods - can address supply gaps while fostering more resilient communities. Additionally, without robust rent controls and inclusionary zoning, new high-rises frequently cater to investors rather than low- and middle-income residents, worsening inequality.

In conclusion, while tall apartment blocks are a vital component of urban housing strategy, they are insufficient alone. A truly effective approach must integrate diverse housing typologies with equitable policies and holistic urban planning to ensure cities are not only housed but also humane and sustainable.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have taken a clear, nuanced position by arguing that while high-rise buildings are a necessary component of urban planning, they are not the 'best' or only solution. Your ideas are well-developed, with specific examples like Tokyo and Singapore used to support the benefits of vertical density, while the counter-arguments regarding social isolation and the 'missing middle' provide a sophisticated, balanced perspective. The argument is consistent throughout, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes your position. This demonstrates a high level of task response, meeting the requirements for a Band 8 or 9.

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-rises and the limitations of this approach is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Admittedly,' 'Furthermore,' 'However,' and 'In conclusion,' which guide the reader through your argument without being mechanical. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different facets of your argument. The flow is natural, and the relationship between ideas is always clear, which is characteristic of the higher band descriptors.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary. The use of terms such as 'pragmatic response,' 'land scarcity,' 'urban sprawl,' 'adaptive reuse,' and 'inclusionary zoning' shows a high level of lexical control and precision. The vocabulary is not only accurate but also contextually appropriate for an academic discussion on urban planning. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used is natural and fluent throughout the response. This level of lexical sophistication is indicative of a high band score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The essay displays a wide range of complex grammatical structures used with high accuracy. You effectively employ subordinate clauses, passive voice, and varied sentence lengths to maintain interest and clarity. For example, the sentence 'While vertical development is undeniably necessary in densely populated metropolises, I only partially agree with this statement...' is a well-constructed complex sentence. There are no grammatical errors, and punctuation is used correctly to support the meaning. The control over grammar is consistent and sophisticated, meeting the criteria for a high band score.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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