Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-29

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)

Housing shortages are a growing problem in many large cities, and some people believe that tall

apartment blocks are the best solution. I partly agree with this view, because high-rise buildings can

house many people on limited land, but I do not think they are the only answer.

The main argument in favour of tall apartment blocks is that space in big cities is scarce and

expensive. A single tower can accommodate hundreds of families on the land that would otherwise

hold a few houses. Hong Kong and Singapore are good examples: both have very high population

densities, yet they have managed to house millions of residents in high-rise buildings while

preserving green areas and farmland outside the urban core. Living in a compact, well-connected

building also allows residents to reach jobs, schools and shops without long commutes, which

reduces traffic and pollution.

However, relying only on skyscrapers has clear drawbacks. Tall buildings are costly and slow to

construct, and rents in new towers are often too high for low-income families. Some residents also

feel isolated in large blocks, particularly if there are few shared spaces and services. In addition, other

measures can add homes more cheaply. Governments can convert empty offices and factories into

flats, build mid-rise housing near public transport, and develop new towns around existing cities, as

Abuja and Lagos have done with satellite settlements. Rent controls and subsidies can also make

existing homes more affordable.

In conclusion, tall apartment blocks are a valuable part of the solution to urban housing shortages,

especially where land is limited. Nevertheless, they work best alongside other strategies, so I would

not describe them as the single best way to provide enough homes.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The candidate has fully addressed all parts of the prompt by presenting a clear, well-developed position on whether tall apartment blocks are the best way to provide housing in large cities. The introduction clearly states a balanced viewpoint (partially agreeing), which is sustained throughout the essay. Main ideas are well extended and supported with relevant examples, such as comparing the high population densities of Hong Kong and Singapore with alternative strategies like converting empty offices or developing satellite settlements in Abuja and Lagos. The arguments are logical, balanced, and directly respond to the task. This meets the descriptors for a Band 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.0

Ideas are logically sequenced and the essay progresses naturally from the introduction to supporting arguments, counter-arguments with alternatives, and a clear conclusion. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct central topic. Cohesive devices are managed well without being intrusive (e.g., 'The main argument in favour', 'However', 'In addition', 'In conclusion'). Referencing is clear and unambiguous throughout. Although cohesion is slightly standard rather than exceptionally skilful, it demonstrates strong organizational control, comfortably aligning with a Band 7.5 to 8.0 level.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The writer demonstrates a sufficient and flexible range of vocabulary suited to an academic discussion about urban planning. Less common lexical items are used effectively with an awareness of style and collocation, such as 'population densities', 'urban core', 'satellite settlements', and 'rent controls and subsidies'. Word choice is generally precise, and spelling is accurate throughout. While the range could be slightly more sophisticated to reach the highest bands, the vocabulary deployed is fully adequate for clear and precise communication, earning a solid Band 7.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.0

The response features a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, showing good control over grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include conditional clauses and relative clauses (e.g., 'the land that would otherwise hold a few houses', 'particularly if there are few shared spaces and services'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly. Grammatical control is consistently strong with only occasional minor imperfections, which fully satisfies the criteria for Band 7.5 to 8.0.

See this exact question answered at other band scores. The same prompt compared across bands.

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