Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-14

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)

As the population of large cities continues to increase, providing enough housing has become a major challenge. I strongly agree that building tall apartment blocks is the best way to solve this problem because they can accommodate more people while making efficient use of limited land.

Firstly, high-rise buildings allow a large number of homes to be constructed in a relatively small area. Land in major cities is often scarce and expensive, so building upwards is more practical than using large areas for houses. For example, a single apartment tower can provide homes for hundreds of families without occupying much ground space. This can help governments meet the growing demand for accommodation.

Secondly, tall apartment blocks can be developed close to important facilities and public transport. When people live near their workplaces, schools and train or bus stations, they can spend less time travelling. This can reduce traffic congestion and make daily life more convenient. Moreover, shared facilities such as parking areas and recreational spaces can be provided within these developments.

However, some people argue that high-rise living can cause overcrowding and may not provide enough private outdoor space. Although this is a valid concern, careful urban planning can reduce these problems by providing parks, playgrounds and adequate public services around apartment buildings.

In conclusion, I strongly agree that tall apartment blocks are the most effective way to provide sufficient housing in large cities. They use limited land efficiently and can offer convenient access to essential facilities, making them a practical solution to urban housing shortages

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt by taking a clear and well-developed position on whether tall apartment blocks are the best way to provide housing in large cities. The introduction explicitly states your agreement with the statement. Body paragraph one effectively discusses the efficiency of land use and gives a clear example of how an apartment tower accommodates many families. Body paragraph two explores proximity to facilities and transport. Furthermore, you thoughtfully acknowledge and refute a counter-argument regarding overcrowding in the fourth paragraph, showing balanced critical thinking. All ideas are extended and supported effectively, satisfying the requirements for a strong band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, beginning with a clear introductory stance followed by well-sequenced body paragraphs using standard signposting language such as 'Firstly', 'Secondly', 'However', and 'In conclusion'. Cohesive devices are used appropriately without being mechanical. Paragraphing is handled logically, dividing distinct arguments into separate blocks of text. Referencing throughout the essay is clear, ensuring the reader can effortlessly follow the flow of your arguments from start to finish.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary with good flexibility and precision, using appropriate topic-specific terminology such as 'urban planning', 'traffic congestion', 'recreational spaces', and 'accommodation'. There is a successful attempt to use less common vocabulary like 'scarce', 'accommodate', and 'sufficient'. Word choice and collocations are generally accurate, and spelling is correct throughout. While it stops short of the highly sophisticated and flexible lexical control seen at higher bands, the vocabulary deployed fully meets the demands of the task without impeding communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response features a good mix of simple and complex sentence forms, utilizing relative clauses and conditional ideas naturally (e.g., 'When people live near their workplaces, schools and train or bus stations, they can spend less time travelling'). There is good control of grammar and punctuation, with frequent error-free sentences throughout the essay. Minor errors are virtually absent, and the structural control is consistent. You demonstrate solid command over clause structures, allowing for smooth delivery of complex thoughts without causing any difficulty for the reader.

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

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