Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-22

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 6.5)

It is often argued that constructing tall apartment buildings is the most effective way to provide sufficient housing in large cities. I partly agree with this view, because high-rise buildings can accommodate a large number of people in a limited area, although other types of housing are also necessary.

On the one hand, building tall apartment blocks can be an efficient solution to the shortage of housing in densely populated cities. Since land is limited and expensive in urban areas, constructing upwards allows more homes to be built without using large amounts of land. In addition, high-rise buildings can be located close to public transport, schools and workplaces, which can reduce commuting time. For example, in cities such as Singapore, high-rise residential buildings are widely used to accommodate a large population while making efficient use of limited land.

On the other hand, high-rise apartments are not necessarily the only or best solution for every city. Some people prefer houses with gardens because they provide more privacy and outdoor space, which can be particularly important for families with children. Furthermore, building extremely tall blocks can put pressure on infrastructure such as roads, electricity, water supply and public transport. Therefore, cities could also develop low-rise housing in suburban areas and improve transport connections between these areas and city centres.

In conclusion, I partly agree that tall apartment blocks are an effective way of providing housing in large cities, particularly where land is scarce. However, I believe that a combination of high-rise apartments and other forms of housing can help cities meet the needs of different residents.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The student addresses all parts of the task by clearly stating a position right from the introduction ('I partly agree with this view') and supporting it throughout the response. The body paragraphs effectively explore both sides of the argument: the advantages of high-rise buildings in terms of efficient land use and proximity to urban amenities, as well as the counterarguments regarding infrastructure strain and the need for alternative family housing types. Ideas are well-extended with a relevant example from Singapore. The position remains clear and consistent throughout, satisfying the requirements for a Band 7.0 performance.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. The essay is structured into a logical introduction, two well-balanced body paragraphs exploring contrasting viewpoints, and a concise concluding paragraph. Cohesive devices are used appropriately and flexibly to guide the reader through the arguments, as seen with phrases like 'On the one hand', 'In addition', 'On the other hand', and 'Furthermore'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph having a distinct central topic. Referencing and substitution are clear and effective, resulting in smooth transitions between ideas.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision appropriate for an academic task. Less common lexical items and collocations are successfully employed, such as 'densely populated cities', 'accommodate a large population', and 'strain on infrastructure'. Word choices are generally accurate and appropriate for the context. Although the vocabulary does not consistently reach the sophisticated level required for higher bands, there are very few errors in word choice or spelling, allowing the message to be communicated clearly and effectively.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writer demonstrates a good control of grammar and punctuation, successfully employing a variety of complex sentence structures alongside simpler forms. Examples of complex structures include conditional and relative clauses, such as 'which can reduce commuting time' and 'while making efficient use of limited land'. There are frequent error-free sentences throughout the text, and the few minor errors that do occur do not impede communication. Overall, the grammatical range and accuracy comfortably meet the criteria for a Band 7.0 score.

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