Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-07

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 7.5)

The rapid growth of urban populations has created an urgent need for additional housing in large cities. Although I agree that tall apartment blocks can provide homes efficiently, I do not believe they are the best solution in every circumstance.

The main advantage of high-rise housing is its efficient use of limited urban land. By constructing vertically, cities can accommodate thousands of residents without expanding extensively into surrounding agricultural or natural areas. This is particularly important in densely populated cities where land prices are extremely high. Moreover, apartments can be located close to workplaces, schools and public transport, potentially reducing commuting distances and traffic congestion. For example, cities such as Singapore have successfully used high-rise residential developments to accommodate a large population within a relatively limited land area.

However, relying predominantly on tall buildings can create significant problems. High-density developments may place considerable pressure on infrastructure, including roads, drainage systems, water supply and public services. If these facilities are not expanded alongside housing, overcrowding and poor living conditions can result. Furthermore, large apartment complexes often provide limited private outdoor space, which can negatively affect residents' quality of life. Cities also need low-rise neighbourhoods, parks and community spaces to create a balanced urban environment.

In my view, therefore, high-rise apartments should form an important part of the solution, but they should not be considered the single best approach. A more sustainable strategy would combine vertical development in suitable areas with carefully planned low- and medium-density housing, while protecting green spaces and ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with population growth.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly state your position in the introduction and maintain it throughout the essay. The arguments for high-rise buildings are well-supported with the example of Singapore, and the counter-arguments regarding infrastructure and quality of life are logically developed. The conclusion effectively synthesizes your position, suggesting a balanced approach. The ideas are relevant and well-extended, meeting the requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, starting with the advantages, moving to the disadvantages, and concluding with a balanced view. Cohesive devices such as 'Moreover', 'However', 'Furthermore', and 'In my view' are used effectively to link sentences and paragraphs. The paragraphing is logical and contributes to the overall clarity of the argument. The flow is smooth and professional throughout.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic task. Phrases like 'efficient use of limited urban land', 'densely populated', 'infrastructure', and 'sustainable strategy' are used accurately. The vocabulary is precise and contributes to the formal tone of the essay. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation, and the language is natural and sophisticated enough to convey your ideas clearly.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a high level of grammatical control. You use a variety of complex sentence structures, such as conditional clauses ('If these facilities are not expanded...') and participial phrases ('By constructing vertically...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is used correctly throughout. The writing is fluent, and there are no grammatical slips that impede communication or distract the reader.

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