Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-03
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)
The issue of the importance of theatres and cinemas has become a widely debated topic in recent years. While some people argue that theatres and cinemas are no longer relevant because people can access entertainment online, others believe that they remain significant economically and culturally. Although both views have their own merits, this essay will discuss both perspectives before explaining why I believe that theatres and cinemas continue to play an important role.
On the one hand, there are several reasons why people support the view that theatres and cinemas are no longer necessary. The main reason is that online entertainment offers greater convenience and accessibility. People can access a wide range of films and programmes from home without travelling or spending money on tickets. Furthermore, online platforms allow viewers to watch content whenever they want, which can save both time and money. For example, people can watch their favourite films at home without visiting a cinema. Therefore, it is understandable why many people consider this perspective more practical and cost-effective.
On the other hand, there are also convincing arguments in favour of theatres and cinemas. One important reason is that they provide a unique social and cultural experience. In addition, they contribute to the economy by creating employment opportunities and generating revenue for businesses. For instance, cinemas allow people to enjoy films together on large screens with high-quality audiovisual facilities, creating a more immersive and memorable experience. Consequently, there are reasonable grounds for supporting this perspective as well. However, I believe that theatres and cinemas remain culturally and economically significant because of their wider benefits.
In conclusion, both online entertainment and theatres and cinemas have valid arguments. Nevertheless, I believe that theatres and cinemas continue to hold considerable value because their overall impact is more beneficial for individuals and society.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.0 |
| Overall | 6.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0
The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. However, the development of ideas is somewhat limited. While you mention that cinemas contribute to the economy and provide a social experience, these points are stated rather than fully explored with specific, detailed examples. For instance, you could have elaborated on the 'cultural' aspect by discussing how local theatres preserve community identity or how the film industry supports local jobs. The position is clear throughout, but to reach a higher band, you need to provide more depth and specific evidence to support your arguments rather than relying on general statements.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0
The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The progression of ideas is smooth, and you use a range of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'On the one hand,' 'Furthermore,' 'Consequently,' and 'Nevertheless.' Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different viewpoints. The referencing is clear, and the flow between sentences is natural. To improve further, ensure that the transition between the discussion of the two views and your own opinion is more seamless, perhaps by integrating your stance more deeply into the body paragraphs rather than just stating it at the end.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.5
You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with some precision. Phrases like 'widely debated topic,' 'practical and cost-effective,' and 'immersive and memorable experience' are used accurately. However, the vocabulary is somewhat functional and lacks the 'less common' or more sophisticated lexical items that would characterize a higher band. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation, and your spelling is accurate. To improve, try to incorporate more topic-specific collocations or idiomatic expressions related to the media and entertainment industry to add more flair to your writing.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0
The essay displays a good control of grammatical structures. You use a mix of simple and complex sentences effectively, such as the use of 'Although' and 'While' clauses to create contrast. The punctuation is generally accurate, and there are very few grammatical errors. The sentences are clear and easy to follow. To reach a higher band, you could experiment with a wider variety of complex structures, such as passive voice constructions or more sophisticated conditional sentences, to demonstrate greater flexibility. Overall, your grammar is strong and does not impede communication at any point.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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