Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-07
IELTS Writing Task 2 question
Some people say that in the digital age, theatres and cinemas are no longer important as people can watch all the entertainment they want online. Others argue that theatres and cinemas are still important both economically and culturally.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Student answer (Band 5.5)
Essay
Some people say that in the digital age theatres and cinemas are no longer important as people can watch all the entertainment they want online. Other argue the theatres and cinemas are still important both economically and culturally. In today digital era, Online streaming platform change the way of entertainment while some believe that theatres and cinema have become unnecessary because all entertainment is available online, others argue that these venues contribute into economy and promote culture. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe theatres and cinemas still important.
On the one hand, many people prefer watching films and shows online because it convenient and budget friendly. Streaming services allow people can enjoy entertainment at any time and from any location using smartphones and laptops or televisions.
Online entertainment platforms are more affordable than purchasing cinema and theatre tickets. As a result, many people choose to stay home rather than visit cinemas and theatres.
On the other hand, theatres and cinemas provide experience that cannot replaced by online entertainment. Watching film at big screen would be a wonderful experience. In addition, theatres promote cultural activities by local plays, live performances and traditional plays that can help to promote culture and norms of the society. Economically, these venues can play a vital part into creating employment opportunities. For instance, work for actors, technicians, ticket sellers and for many other workers, while supporting businesses.
In my opinion, although digital entertainment has become popular these days, cinemas and theatres still important. They offer social and cultural interaction. Online entertainment cannot fully replicate these platforms. Therefore, both forms should coexist rather than replace one another.
In conclusion, online entertainment provide convenience and affordability but theatres and cinemas remain essential for cultural and economical development.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The essay addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. The ideas are relevant, such as the convenience of streaming versus the cultural and economic value of physical venues. However, the development of these points is somewhat superficial. For instance, the economic argument could be strengthened with more specific examples beyond just listing job roles. The position is consistent throughout, but the depth of analysis is limited, which prevents it from reaching the higher bands. The introduction is slightly repetitive, restating the prompt rather than synthesising it effectively.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is logically organised with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the two viewpoints. Cohesive devices are present, such as 'On the one hand', 'In addition', and 'For instance', which help guide the reader. However, some transitions are a bit mechanical, and there are minor issues with referencing and flow, such as the slightly disjointed sentences in the introduction. The progression of ideas is generally clear, but the connection between sentences could be smoother to achieve a higher level of cohesion.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The range of vocabulary is adequate for the task, covering topics like 'digital era', 'streaming platforms', and 'cultural interaction'. There are some attempts at less common vocabulary, but the usage is occasionally imprecise, such as 'contribute into economy' (should be 'contribute to the economy') and 'cannot replaced' (should be 'cannot be replaced'). While the vocabulary is sufficient to convey meaning clearly, it lacks the sophistication and precision required for a higher band score. Spelling is generally accurate, but the word choices are somewhat repetitive.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. However, there are frequent grammatical errors that, while not impeding communication, are noticeable. Examples include missing articles ('in today digital era'), subject-verb agreement issues ('online entertainment provide'), and missing auxiliary verbs ('cannot replaced'). Punctuation is generally functional, but the sentence structure could be more varied to demonstrate greater control. To improve, focus on ensuring that complex sentences are constructed accurately, particularly regarding passive voice and article usage.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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