Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-25

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)

In many large cities, the growing population has created a serious shortage of housing. Some people believe that constructing tall apartment buildings is the best way to provide enough homes. I largely agree with this view because high-rise buildings can accommodate more people in limited spaces and make better use of urban land.

The main reason for building tall apartment blocks is that they can provide accommodation for a large number of people in a relatively small area. Land is limited and extremely expensive in major cities, so constructing individual houses for every family is often impractical. By building vertically, hundreds of families can live on the same amount of land that might otherwise accommodate only a few houses. For example, cities such as Dubai have developed numerous high-rise residential buildings to accommodate their growing populations. Therefore, tall buildings can be an effective solution to housing shortages.

Another important advantage is that apartment blocks can help reduce the expansion of cities into surrounding areas. If cities continue to build low-rise houses, they may need to expand into agricultural land and natural areas. In contrast, high-rise apartments allow more people to live close to workplaces, schools, hospitals and public transport. This can also reduce travelling distances and make essential services more accessible to residents.

However, tall apartment blocks should not be considered the only solution. Living in high-rise buildings may not be suitable for every family, particularly those with children or elderly people. Furthermore, overcrowded apartment developments can put additional pressure on roads, public transport, water supplies and other public services. Therefore, governments should ensure that new residential buildings are supported by adequate infrastructure, parks and community facilities.

In conclusion, I largely agree that tall apartment blocks are one of the most effective ways to provide sufficient housing in large cities because they save land and accommodate a large population. Nevertheless, careful urban planning and investment in public facilities are necessary to ensure a good quality of life for residents.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by presenting a clear, well-developed position on whether tall apartment blocks are the best way to provide enough homes in large cities. The introduction states a clear view, which is maintained throughout. Main body paragraphs are well-supported with logical arguments, such as the efficient use of limited land and the prevention of urban sprawl. Examples, such as citing Dubai, add weight to the arguments. The counterargument in the fourth paragraph acknowledges drawbacks like infrastructural pressure and suitability for families, which demonstrates a balanced approach. The ideas are extended appropriately, meeting all requirements for a Band 7.0 or 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay displays clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with an introduction, moving to land efficiency, then urban sprawl containment, followed by a counterargument, and concluding effectively. Cohesive devices are used flexibly and appropriately without being overly mechanical (e.g., 'The main reason', 'In contrast', 'Furthermore', 'In conclusion'). Referencing and substitution are handled smoothly, making the flow of ideas natural and easy to follow. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, satisfying the descriptors for a strong performance.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient and generally flexible range of vocabulary suited to an academic topic. Less common lexical items are used effectively with good awareness of style and collocation, such as 'growing population', 'urban land', 'accommodation', 'urban sprawl', and 'adequate infrastructure'. Word choice is precise in most places. While there are no major lexical errors, the vocabulary is slightly standard rather than sophisticated throughout, which places it firmly in the Band 7 category.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response features a good variety of complex sentence structures, including conditional or concessive clauses (e.g., 'By building vertically, hundreds of families can live on the same amount of land that might otherwise accommodate only a few houses'). The majority of sentences are error-free, demonstrating good control of grammar and punctuation. There are only very occasional minor slips or awkward constructions, but these never impede communication. The control exhibited across diverse structures fully justifies a Band 8.0 score for this criterion.

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