Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-19
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)
Use of technology has increased nowadays. Some people believe that in the digital age, people can watch all the entertainment online so theaters and cinemas are no longer important while others think that theaters and cinemas are still important. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own views.
On the one hand, most people use online platforms for watching movies and series. This is because it provides both convenience and comfort when watching movies and series. By watching on streaming platforms, people can replay, pause and skip any time. Nowadays the cost of movie tickets has increased so everyone can not afford it. People cannot afford theaters tickets. Online platforms is one of the best ways for them watching movies. For instance, students prefer online platforms for watching movies instead of visiting theaters and cinemas. Additionally, in China, working women like to watch movies on online platforms such as Hotstar and Netflix because of their busy schedules. As a result, it can help save money and time.
On the other hand, theaters and cinemas are still important because they provide efficient sound and big screen experience. It creates employment for actors, ticket sellers and other workers. It not only creates employment, but it also attract visitors. The more visitors visiting theatres, the better the economy becomes. If people visit theaters and cinemas, they will improve their communication skills. To exemplify, people can reduce their stress by visiting cinemas.
In conclusion, I completely agree with the first statement because people can watch all the entertainment through online streaming platforms. It is free of cost so everyone can use it. In the future, the trend of watching movies and series on online platforms will increase.
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 response addresses both sides of the argument and provides a clear personal opinion. However, the development of ideas is somewhat limited. For instance, the claim that visiting cinemas improves communication skills is not explained or supported with logical reasoning. Similarly, the argument regarding the economy is mentioned but lacks depth. While the position is consistent, the supporting points are often repetitive, such as the repeated mention of 'convenience' and 'cost'. To reach a higher band, you should provide more nuanced examples and ensure that each point is fully explored rather than just stated.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organized into clear paragraphs, and there is a logical progression of ideas from the introduction to the conclusion. You use basic cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'Additionally' to link your points. However, the use of these devices is somewhat mechanical and repetitive. Furthermore, some transitions between sentences are abrupt, and the referencing is occasionally unclear. To improve, try to use a wider variety of linking words and ensure that the relationship between sentences is more fluid and sophisticated.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary used is generally adequate for the task but lacks the range and precision required for a higher band. You rely on simple, repetitive phrasing such as 'watching movies and series' and 'online platforms'. There are some inaccuracies in collocation, such as 'efficient sound', which would be better expressed as 'high-quality audio' or 'immersive sound systems'. While the meaning is always clear, the lack of less common lexical items and the repetitive nature of the vocabulary limit the score. Incorporating more topic-specific vocabulary related to media and economics would be beneficial.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
You demonstrate a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. While many sentences are grammatically correct, there are recurring errors, such as 'Online platforms is one of the best ways' (subject-verb agreement) and 'everyone can not afford it' (word order). Punctuation is generally acceptable, but there are minor issues with article usage and phrasing. The range of structures is sufficient to communicate your ideas, but the lack of more complex, error-free sentences prevents a higher score. Focusing on subject-verb agreement and refining your use of articles will help improve your accuracy.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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