Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-18

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 7.0)

Rapid population growth has created a serious shortage of housing in many large cities. Some people argue that the most effective solution is to construct tall apartment buildings. I partly agree with this view because high-rise housing can accommodate a large number of people, but it should not be considered the only solution.

On the one hand, building tall apartment blocks can be an effective way of dealing with limited space in cities. Since land in urban areas is often expensive and scarce, constructing vertically allows more people to live in the same area. For example, a single high-rise building can provide hundreds of homes without requiring a large amount of land. In addition, apartments can be built close to public transport, schools and workplaces, which can reduce commuting times and make better use of existing infrastructure.

On the other hand, relying entirely on high-rise buildings can create several problems. Very tall residential areas may become overcrowded and can place considerable pressure on public services such as roads, hospitals and schools. Furthermore, some people may prefer houses with gardens or lower-rise accommodation, particularly families with young children. Therefore, cities should also consider other forms of housing, such as medium-rise buildings and affordable housing developments in less densely populated areas.

In conclusion, I believe that tall apartment blocks are an important part of the solution to housing shortages in large cities because they make efficient use of limited land. However, they are not the only answer. A combination of high-rise and other types of housing would be a more practical way to meet the needs of a growing urban population.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing the extent of agreement with the statement about building tall apartment blocks in large cities. The writer takes a clear, balanced position right from the introduction ("I partly agree with this view because high-rise housing can accommodate a large number of people, but it should not be considered the only solution") and maintains this stance throughout the essay. The body paragraphs are well-developed, with the first body paragraph exploring the advantages of vertical building, such as efficient land use and proximity to infrastructure, while the second body paragraph thoughtfully outlines the counterarguments, including overcrowding and strain on public services. Ideas are well-supported with logical explanations, leading to a natural conclusion that aligns with Band 7.5 to 8.0 descriptors.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are coherently structured, starting with a clear introduction, moving through balanced body paragraphs, and finishing with a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as "On the one hand", "In addition", "On the other hand", and "Furthermore", which guide the reader smoothly between contrasting points. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct central topic. Reference words and substitutions are handled well to maintain cohesion, placing this response firmly in the Band 7.5 to 8.0 range.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with good flexibility and precision, suitable for an academic response. Phrases such as "rapid population growth", "housing shortage", "constructing vertically", and "existing infrastructure" demonstrate a solid control of topic-specific language. There are also attempts at less common lexical items, such as "densely populated areas" and "sustainable urban development". Word choice is generally appropriate and collocation is natural, with very few lexical errors. Spelling throughout the text is completely accurate, meeting the criteria for a strong Band 7.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response features a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, showing strong control over grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include "Since land in urban areas is often expensive and scarce, constructing vertically allows more people to live in the same area" and "Furthermore, some people may prefer houses with gardens or lower-rise accommodation, particularly families with young children." The majority of sentences are error-free, and any minor slips do not impede communication in any way. Punctuation is accurate throughout, making the text easy to read and fully deserving of a Band 7.5.

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