Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.0 · 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 6.0)
The importance of theatres and cinemas has become a widely debated issue in recent years. While some people argue that theatres and cinemas are no longer important because people can watch entertainment online, others believe that they are still important 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 are still important.
On the one hand, there are several reasons why people support the view that theatres and cinemas are no longer important. The main reason is that this approach can offer significant benefits for individuals and society. This is mainly because it can create greater opportunities and enable people to meet their needs more effectively. Furthermore, it may allow individuals to use their time and resources in a more productive manner. For example, online entertainment can enable people to watch films and programmes from home at a convenient time. Therefore, it is understandable why many people consider this perspective to be beneficial.
On the other hand, there are also convincing arguments in favour of the view that theatres and cinemas are still important. One important reason is that this approach can provide a different and potentially effective way of addressing people's needs and challenges. In addition, it may generate wider social, cultural or economic benefits. For instance, cinemas can help people enjoy films together on large screens with high-quality sound creating a more positive and beneficial outcome. Consequently, there are reasonable grounds for supporting this perspective as well. However, after considering both views, I believe that theatres and cinemas are still important is more convincing because it is likely to produce greater long-term benefits.
In conclusion, both online entertainment and theatres and cinemas have valid arguments. Nevertheless, I believe that theatres and cinemas are still important is the more appropriate perspective because its overall impact is likely to be more beneficial for individuals and society.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 6.5 |
| Overall | 6.0 |
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 quite generic. For instance, the arguments for online entertainment are vague, mentioning 'greater opportunities' and 'meet their needs' without specifying what those needs are. Similarly, the defense of cinemas relies on general statements about 'social, cultural or economic benefits' rather than providing concrete examples or deeper analysis. To reach a higher band, you need to move beyond abstract claims and provide specific, illustrative examples—such as the communal experience of a film festival or the economic impact on local businesses—to fully support your position.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The use of cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand,' 'Furthermore,' and 'Consequently' is effective and helps guide the reader through the argument. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the two perspectives. However, the progression of ideas within the paragraphs is somewhat repetitive, as the language used to introduce points is quite similar throughout. To improve, try to vary your linking phrases and ensure that each sentence builds more directly upon the previous one rather than simply restating the topic.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but it lacks the precision and range required for a higher band. You rely on general terms like 'important,' 'beneficial,' and 'effective' repeatedly. While these words are used correctly, they do not demonstrate a sophisticated command of English. There is a lack of topic-specific vocabulary related to the film industry or digital media (e.g., 'streaming platforms,' 'cinematic experience,' 'cultural heritage,' 'digital disruption'). To improve, focus on using more precise collocations and less common vocabulary that is relevant to the specific topic of the essay.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5
The essay demonstrates a good level of grammatical control. You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, and the majority of your sentences are error-free. There are no significant issues with punctuation or syntax that impede communication. However, the range of structures is somewhat limited; you rely heavily on 'there are' and 'it is' constructions. To achieve a higher band, try to incorporate a wider variety of complex structures, such as conditional sentences, passive voice, or more sophisticated relative clauses, to show greater flexibility in your writing.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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