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 issue of the importance of theatres and cinemas has become a subject of considerable debate in recent years. While some people argue that theatres and cinemas are no longer important because people can watch entertainment online, others maintain that they are still important economically and culturally. Although both perspectives have their merits, this essay will examine both sides before explaining why I believe that theatres and cinemas are still important.
On the one hand, there are several compelling reasons why people support the view that theatres and cinemas are no longer important. The primary argument is that this approach can offer substantial benefits to individuals and society. This is mainly because it can create opportunities and enable people to address their needs more effectively. Furthermore, it may allow individuals to use their time and resources efficiently. For example, online entertainment enables people to watch films and programmes from home at their convenience. Therefore, it is understandable why many people regard this perspective as practical and beneficial.
On the other hand, there are equally persuasive arguments in favour of the view that theatres and cinemas are still important. One significant advantage is that this approach can effectively address people's needs and challenges. In addition, it may generate broader social, cultural or economic benefits. For instance, cinemas allow people to enjoy films together on large screens with high-quality sound, creating a memorable experience. This demonstrates how this perspective can have a positive impact. Consequently, there are sound reasons for supporting this viewpoint as well. However, I believe that theatres and cinemas are still important because it is likely to deliver 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 because their overall impact is likely to benefit both 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 somewhat generic. For instance, the arguments regarding why online entertainment is 'practical' or why cinemas provide 'social benefits' are stated in very broad, repetitive terms rather than being supported by specific, concrete examples or detailed reasoning. While the task is addressed, the lack of depth in the supporting arguments prevents the response from reaching a higher band. To improve, you should focus on providing more specific illustrations or logical consequences for your points rather than using vague phrases like 'address people's needs'.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'Furthermore', and 'Consequently' are used effectively to guide the reader through the argument. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a central theme. The progression of ideas is clear, although the content within the paragraphs is somewhat repetitive, which slightly affects the overall flow. The referencing is generally accurate, and the structure is coherent throughout the piece.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is adequate for the task and allows for clear communication. You use some good collocations like 'compelling reasons', 'subject of considerable debate', and 'long-term benefits'. However, the range of vocabulary is somewhat limited and repetitive; for example, the phrase 'address people's needs' is used in both body paragraphs, and the language lacks the precision and variety required for a higher band. There are no significant spelling or word-choice errors, but the lexical range does not demonstrate the flexibility or sophistication expected at the Band 7 level or above.
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, such as 'While some people argue that... others maintain that...' and 'This demonstrates how this perspective can have a positive impact.' The sentences are generally error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly. While the range of structures is sufficient, it is not particularly ambitious or varied. The grammar is accurate, but the lack of more complex, varied sentence patterns keeps this in the Band 7 range.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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