Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · 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 6.5)

As the population of large cities continues to grow, providing sufficient housing has become an important issue. Some people believe that constructing tall apartment buildings is the most effective solution. I largely agree with this view because high-rise buildings can accommodate many people while using limited land, although they can also create some problems.

One major advantage of building tall apartment blocks is that they make efficient use of land. In large cities, available land is often limited and expensive. Instead of constructing many houses over a large area, several apartments can be built vertically on the same piece of land. This can provide homes for a large number of families without expanding cities too far into surrounding rural areas. For example, a single high-rise building can contain hundreds of apartments, making it possible to house many residents in a relatively small area.

Another benefit is that apartment buildings can be developed near important facilities and public transportation. If housing is concentrated in particular areas, governments can provide services such as roads, schools, hospitals and public transport more efficiently. In addition, people living in apartments may have easier access to workplaces and other facilities, which can reduce long commuting times.

However, relying entirely on high-rise apartments may have some disadvantages. If buildings are constructed without proper planning, they can lead to overcrowding, traffic congestion and a lack of green spaces. Furthermore, some people may prefer living in individual houses because they offer greater privacy and outdoor space. Therefore, high-rise housing should be combined with parks, public facilities and appropriate urban planning.

In conclusion, I agree that constructing tall apartment blocks is one of the most effective ways to provide enough housing in large cities. Nevertheless, these buildings need to be carefully planned so that increasing the number of homes does not negatively affect the quality of urban life.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing the extent of agreement with the statement that building tall apartment blocks is the best way to provide enough homes in large cities. The student adopts a clear position throughout, stating that they largely agree with this view while also acknowledging potential drawbacks. Ideas are well developed and extended, such as explaining how vertical construction saves land and how concentrated housing allows for efficient infrastructure delivery (e.g., 'governments can provide services such as roads, schools, hospitals and public transport more efficiently'). The counterargument regarding overcrowding and privacy is also relevantly integrated and addressed through the need for proper planning. Overall, this demonstrates a strong Band 7.0 performance for Task Achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The response features a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving smoothly from the introduction to two distinct advantages, a counterargument, and a balanced conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and appropriately, such as 'One major advantage', 'Another benefit', 'However', and 'In conclusion'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, and referencing throughout the text remains clear. The flow from one idea to the next is natural and easy to follow, making this a solid representation of Band 7.0 for Coherence and Cohesion.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student displays a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision to allow for natural expression. Less common lexical items are used appropriately, such as 'sufficient housing', 'efficient use of land', 'overcrowding', 'traffic congestion', and 'urban planning'. While the vocabulary is mostly standard and functional rather than exceptionally sophisticated, word choice is generally accurate and suitable for an academic essay. Spelling and word formation are entirely accurate throughout the text. These elements firmly position the vocabulary within the Band 7.0 criteria.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The writer demonstrates a good control of grammar and punctuation, successfully employing a variety of complex structures alongside simpler sentence forms. Examples of complex structures include conditional and concessive clauses, such as 'Instead of constructing many houses over a large area, several apartments can be built vertically...' and 'If housing is concentrated in particular areas, governments can provide services...'. There is a high frequency of error-free sentences, and punctuation is handled securely. The minor imperfections present do not impede communication, matching the Band 7.0 descriptor for grammatical control.

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