Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-09
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 6.5)
In the modern era, the majority of individuals believe that theatres and cinemas are not essential anymore. On the other hand, some people think that theatre and cinemas are still important in both economically and culturally, I firmly agree with the statement which says it is still beneficial. On the one hand, society likes to watch movies on online platforms rather than watching in theatres and cinemas. They just buy online streaming applications subscriptions to watch anytime anywhere. There is a plethora of web series which is only available on online platforms. They think it is a waste of time and money as the movie prices are equal to their whole month subscription. For example, people bought subscriptions of Netflix when a web series named Stranger Things released. it attracts the young generation to buy OTT membership. As a result, their interest shifts from theatres to online platforms. On the other hand, theatres and cinemas work as a best tool for economic and cultural boost. When they book movie tickets then they use public transport or their personal vehicle to reach the movie theatre. They buy popcorns, soft drinks and eat out before or after shows which is very helpful in boosting local market economically. In addition, residents make plans to watch movies with their families. The parents encourage their children to watch traditional movies specifically with them. They give crucial knowledge about their cultures through traditional movies. In my opinion, theatres and cinemas are the best way to boost economy and get knowledge about culture. In conclusion, Although, People like to watch movies through online platforms, but the benefits of theatres and cinemas cannot be neglected.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 6.0 |
| Overall | 6.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5
The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. The ideas are relevant, such as the economic impact of local spending and the cultural value of traditional cinema. However, the development of these ideas is somewhat superficial. For instance, the argument regarding 'traditional movies' providing 'crucial knowledge' is mentioned but not fully explained or exemplified. While the position is consistent, the essay would benefit from more depth in the analysis of the cultural importance of theatres to reach a higher band. The structure is logical, and the task requirements are met.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5
The essay is logically organized into clear paragraphs, with a discernible introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Cohesive devices are used, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'In addition', which help guide the reader. However, some transitions are slightly mechanical, and the use of referencing could be more precise. For example, the sentence 'They just buy online streaming applications...' uses 'They' to refer to 'society', which is a slightly awkward shift in reference. Overall, the progression of ideas is clear, and paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different viewpoints.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.0
The range of vocabulary is adequate for the task, allowing the writer to express their ideas clearly. There are attempts to use topic-specific vocabulary such as 'online streaming applications', 'OTT membership', and 'economic and cultural boost'. However, the range is somewhat limited, and there are occasional errors in word choice and collocation, such as 'work as a best tool' instead of 'serve as an effective tool' and 'movie prices are equal to their whole month subscription'. While these errors do not impede communication, they prevent the essay from reaching a higher band score.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0
The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are several grammatical errors, such as 'theatre and cinemas are still important in both economically and culturally' (incorrect preposition/adverb usage) and 'Although, People like to watch movies... but the benefits...' (incorrect use of 'Although' with 'but'). Additionally, there are minor punctuation and article errors throughout, such as 'a web series named Stranger Things released' (missing 'was'). While these errors are noticeable, they do not significantly impede the reader's understanding of the main arguments.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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