Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-30

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)

The rapid growth of urban populations has created a serious demand for housing in large cities. Some people argue that the best solution is to construct tall apartment blocks. I partly agree with this view because high-rise buildings can accommodate many people, but other housing options are also necessary.

One major advantage of tall apartment buildings is that they make efficient use of limited land. In large cities, land is often expensive and difficult to obtain, so constructing upwards allows more people to live in a relatively small area. For example, a single high-rise building can provide hundreds of homes without occupying as much land as hundreds of individual houses. Moreover, apartment blocks can be constructed near public transport, schools and workplaces, which can reduce commuting distances and traffic congestion.

However, relying entirely on tall buildings can create problems. Very densely populated residential areas can put pressure on public services such as roads, hospitals and schools. In addition, residents may have less privacy and access to outdoor space. For this reason, governments should consider other methods of increasing the housing supply. Medium-rise apartment buildings and carefully planned suburban housing can provide additional homes while avoiding excessive population density. Another option is to convert unused commercial buildings into residential properties, which can increase housing availability without requiring large amounts of new land.

In conclusion, I believe that tall apartment blocks are an effective way to provide homes in large cities because they use land efficiently. Nevertheless, they should not be considered the only solution. A combination of high-rise buildings, medium-rise housing and the redevelopment of existing properties would be a more practical approach to meeting the growing demand for housing.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.0

The student presents a clear and well-developed position throughout the essay, directly addressing the prompt regarding the role of tall apartment blocks in large cities. The introduction outlines a nuanced viewpoint by partially agreeing that high-rises are beneficial while recognising the need for other options. The body paragraphs are well-supported with relevant examples and explanations, such as efficient land use, proximity to infrastructure, and the potential pressure on public services. The conclusion effectively summarises the main arguments and reinforces the balanced stance. The response satisfies all requirements of the task, offering extended and supported ideas without wandering off-topic, aligning well with the criteria for a Band 7.5 or 8.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas from introduction to body paragraphs and conclusion. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with the advantages of tall buildings, followed by the drawbacks and alternative solutions, and culminating in a balanced conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'One major advantage', 'Moreover', 'However', and 'In addition'. Paragraphing is managed appropriately, ensuring the text flows smoothly and guides the reader effortlessly through the writer's argument. The logical sequencing and functional use of cohesive ties firmly support a Band 7.0 performance.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary for the task, successfully incorporating less common lexical items such as 'densely populated', 'infrastructure', 'redevelopment', and 'excessive population density'. Word choice is generally precise and appropriate for an academic context, as seen in phrases like 'efficient use of limited land' and 'housing availability'. While there are no major lexical errors, the vocabulary occasionally relies on standard collocations rather than more sophisticated, nuanced expressions, which keeps it just below the highest band thresholds. Overall, the lexical control is solid and fully adequate for clear communication, meriting a Band 7.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.0

The essay displays a good variety of complex sentence structures used with a high degree of accuracy. The student successfully integrates subordinate clauses and conditional concepts, such as in 'which can reduce commuting distances' and 'while avoiding excessive population density'. The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly throughout. Grammar slips are virtually absent, and the control over verb tenses and modal verbs is secure. This strong command of both simple and complex grammatical forms comfortably satisfies the requirements for a Band 7.5.

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