Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-28

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 urban populations continue to grow, providing adequate housing has become a major challenge for many large cities. Although constructing tall apartment blocks can accommodate a substantial number of people while making efficient use of limited land, I believe that high-rise buildings should not be considered the only solution to the housing shortage.

One major advantage of high-rise apartments is that they allow cities to accommodate large populations without requiring vast amounts of land. In densely populated urban areas, available land is often limited and extremely expensive, making it difficult to construct individual houses for everyone. By building vertically, developers can provide a greater number of housing units within a relatively small area. Furthermore, apartment buildings can be constructed close to public transport networks, schools and workplaces, which can reduce the need for long commutes. For example, a high-rise residential complex located near a metro station can provide housing for hundreds of families while also giving residents convenient access to essential services.

However, relying entirely on tall apartment blocks may create other problems. High-density developments can place considerable pressure on existing infrastructure, particularly roads, public transport, schools and healthcare facilities. In addition, not everyone prefers to live in a high-rise building, and poorly planned developments may provide insufficient green spaces and recreational areas. Therefore, cities should adopt a broader approach to housing by combining apartment buildings with other forms of residential development, such as low-rise housing and suburban communities. This would allow governments to increase the housing supply while also maintaining a reasonable quality of life for residents.

In conclusion, I agree that tall apartment blocks can play an important role in addressing housing shortages because they make efficient use of limited urban land and can accommodate large numbers of people. Nevertheless, I do not believe they are the sole solution. A combination of high-rise and other forms of housing, supported by adequate infrastructure and public services, would be a more comprehensive approach to meeting the housing needs of growing cities.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The candidate has fully addressed all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed position on whether tall apartment blocks are the best way to provide enough homes in large cities. The introduction clearly states a nuanced stance ('I believe that high-rise buildings should not be considered the only solution'), which is maintained throughout the essay. Body paragraph 1 explores the advantages of high-rise developments, such as efficient land use and proximity to transport. Body paragraph 2 examines counterarguments and limitations, including infrastructure pressure and quality of life concerns. The conclusion successfully synthesises the arguments and reaffirms the thesis. Ideas are thoroughly extended and supported with relevant explanations and examples, fully satisfying the requirements for a Band 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting from the introduction of the debate, moving through the advantages and disadvantages, and concluding with a balanced summary. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'Furthermore', 'In addition', 'Therefore', and 'Nevertheless'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately to separate distinct conceptual stages of the argument. Referential links between sentences are clear and seamless, meaning cohesion never attracts undue attention. This meets all the criteria for a Band 8.0.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.5

The writer displays a wide, fluent, and flexible lexical range suited to an academic discussion on urban planning. Appropriate less common lexical items and collocations are used skillfully throughout the text, including phrases like 'densely populated urban areas', 'infrastructure, particularly roads', and 'comprehensive approach'. Word choice is generally precise, with only occasional minor imperfections. Spelling and word formation are entirely accurate across the whole response. The vocabulary effortlessly facilitates clear communication and reflects a strong Band 8.0 standard.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response features a wide range of complex sentence structures, including conditional or concessive clauses ('Although constructing tall apartment blocks can accommodate...', 'By building vertically, developers can provide...'). The majority of sentences are completely error-free, and the writer demonstrates excellent control over grammar, punctuation, and clause subordination. Minor slips or awkward turns are virtually absent, and complex structures are handled with a high degree of accuracy. This performance firmly aligns with the Band 8.0 descriptors for grammatical range and accuracy.

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