Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-05
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 digital age, people can easily watch films, shows and other forms of entertainment on the internet. Therefore, some people believe that theatres and cinemas are not important anymore. However, others think that these places still have economic and cultural value. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On the one hand, theatres and cinemas may be less important because of the development of online entertainment. Nowadays, people can watch movies and television programmes on platforms such as Netflix and YouTube from their homes. This is usually more convenient and sometimes cheaper than going to a cinema. People do not need to travel, buy expensive food or wait for a particular show time. For example, a family can watch a new movie at home using a streaming service while sitting comfortably in their own house. As a result, many people prefer online entertainment.
On the other hand, theatres and cinemas are still important for both economic and cultural reasons. Cinemas provide employment for many people, including managers, cleaners, technicians and other workers. They also generate income for film producers, food companies and local businesses. In addition, theatres are important for culture because they provide a place where people can enjoy live performances and traditional art. Watching a play or a live performance in a theatre can give people an experience that cannot be completely replaced by watching a video online.
In conclusion, online entertainment has made it easier for people to enjoy films and other programmes at home, which has reduced the need to visit cinemas. Nevertheless, cinemas and theatres continue to have important economic and cultural benefits, so they should not be considered unnecessary.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 6.5 |
| 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 and logically extended, such as the economic impact of cinemas and the convenience of streaming services. However, the development of the personal opinion is somewhat brief; while it is stated in the introduction and conclusion, it could be more deeply integrated into the body paragraphs to reach a higher band. The position is consistent throughout, and the response provides a balanced overview of the topic, meeting the requirements of the task effectively.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0
The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the two viewpoints is handled well using cohesive devices like 'On the one hand' and 'On the other hand'. The use of linking words such as 'Therefore', 'In addition', and 'Nevertheless' is appropriate and helps the flow of the argument. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the different stages of the discussion. The overall structure is coherent, and the relationship between ideas is clear throughout the text.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.0
The vocabulary used is sufficient and appropriate for the task. The student employs topic-specific terms such as 'streaming service', 'live performances', and 'economic and cultural value'. While the range is adequate, it lacks the more sophisticated or idiomatic expressions that would characterize a higher band. The word choices are accurate and convey the intended meaning without any significant errors. The student demonstrates a good grasp of general academic vocabulary, which allows for clear communication of the arguments presented.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5
The essay demonstrates a good control of grammatical structures. There is a mix of simple and complex sentences, such as the use of relative clauses ('...a place where people can enjoy...') and conditional-like structures. The grammar is generally accurate, with very few errors that do not impede communication. Punctuation is used correctly throughout. While the range of structures is solid, incorporating a wider variety of more complex grammatical forms, such as passive voice or more varied subordinate clauses, would further enhance the quality of the writing.
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