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 rapid growth of urban populations has created an increasing demand for affordable and accessible housing. Some argue that the most effective way to accommodate this demand is to construct tall apartment blocks. I largely agree with this view because high-rise developments make efficient use of limited urban land, although they should be combined with other forms of housing and careful urban planning.

The strongest argument in favour of high-rise apartments is that they allow a large number of people to live within a relatively small area. Land in major cities is scarce and expensive, so constructing extensive numbers of detached or low-rise houses would require cities to expand further into surrounding areas. By building vertically instead, governments and developers can provide thousands of homes without consuming large amounts of land. This can also reduce urban sprawl and make it easier to provide essential infrastructure such as public transport, schools and hospitals. For example, cities such as Hong Kong and Singapore have successfully accommodated extremely large populations through extensive high-rise residential developments.

Another important advantage is that apartment blocks can be located close to employment centres and public facilities. This can significantly reduce commuting times and dependence on private cars, particularly when residential towers are developed alongside efficient public transport networks. In addition, modern apartment complexes can incorporate shared facilities such as parks, gyms and community spaces, allowing residents to enjoy amenities that may be difficult to provide individually in densely populated cities.

However, I do not believe that tall buildings are a complete solution to the housing problem. Excessive reliance on high-rise accommodation can create overcrowded neighbourhoods and may negatively affect residents' quality of life if buildings are poorly designed or maintained. Families with young children, for instance, may prefer houses with private outdoor space rather than living in small apartments. Furthermore, simply constructing more towers does not necessarily make housing affordable. If apartments are built primarily as luxury properties, they may do little to address the needs of low-income residents. Governments therefore need to combine high-rise construction with affordable-housing policies, low-rise developments and the expansion of suburban areas where appropriate.

In conclusion, I largely agree that tall apartment blocks are one of the most effective ways to provide sufficient housing in large cities, particularly because they use scarce land efficiently and can accommodate substantial populations close to urban facilities. Nevertheless, they should not be regarded as the sole solution. A balanced housing strategy that combines vertical development with affordable housing and suitable low-rise communities would be more effective and sustainable in the long term.

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 ideas are well-developed, particularly the arguments regarding land efficiency and infrastructure, which are supported by relevant examples like Hong Kong and Singapore. You also provide a balanced view by acknowledging the limitations of high-rise living, such as the potential for overcrowding and the need for affordable housing policies. The conclusion effectively synthesises your arguments, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the topic. The response is well-structured and meets all requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth and natural. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'The strongest argument in favour of', 'In addition', 'However', and 'Furthermore', which guide the reader through your argument without being repetitive. The use of referencing is precise, and the paragraphing is used appropriately to separate different aspects of the discussion. The overall flow is coherent and professional.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which allows for precise expression of your ideas. Phrases such as 'urban sprawl', 'efficient use of limited urban land', 'employment centres', and 'sustainable in the long term' show a high level of lexical control. You use less common items appropriately, and there are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation. The language is natural and sophisticated, fitting the academic context of the task perfectly.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses and varied sentence beginnings. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and you demonstrate excellent control over punctuation and tense usage. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. Your ability to construct complex arguments using a variety of structures—such as 'If apartments are built primarily as luxury properties, they may do little to address the needs of low-income residents'—is indicative of a high level of grammatical competence.

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