Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-11
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)
Importance of cinemas and theatres have been a topic of debate recently. Some like to argue that in the digital age where you can consume entertainment online, places like cinemas are not required; on the other hand people argue that they are still important in both economic and cultural aspects.
In this digital age accessing the piece of entertainment has become surprisingly easy compared to previous times. For example, the price of a monthly subscription for Netflix in India is around 200 rupees. Using this subscription an individual can stream movies or shows from anywhere at anytime. The restrictions of being present in a particular place at a particular time to consume entertainment has been eradicated with these digital media platforms. Considering all the benefits offered by these digital options some people argue that theatres and cinemas does not play an important role as they used to.
On the contrary, other group argues that theatres and cinemas are still important. The experience of witnessing an actor performing live in a play at the theatre hall with other people in audience is culturally rich compared to watching the same play alone on a small mobile screen. Consider the example of a movie franchise Dune, these films were made specifically for larger screen sizes available in cinemas. One can watch the movie in a phone or a laptop but experiencing the true self of the movie is possible only by visiting the cinema hall and these movies have performed economically to prove the unique experience, the cinema has to offer.
In conclusion, I think theatres and cinemas are important because of the experience they have to offer and digital solutions are also equally important for the accessibility they provide to audience. One should not compare both instead enjoy the uniqueness both has to offer.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 6.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5
The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both perspectives and providing a clear personal opinion in the conclusion. The ideas are relevant and supported by examples, such as the mention of Netflix subscriptions and the film 'Dune'. However, the development of the economic argument is slightly thin; while the student mentions that films like 'Dune' have performed well, they could have elaborated more on the broader economic impact of the cinema industry, such as job creation or local business support. The position is consistent throughout, and the essay structure is logical, meeting the requirements for a Band 7 performance.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the two opposing views. Cohesive devices are present, such as 'on the other hand', 'in this digital age', and 'on the contrary', which help guide the reader through the argument. However, some transitions feel slightly mechanical, and there is occasional awkwardness in referencing, such as 'other group argues' (missing an article). Overall, the progression of ideas is clear, and the essay flows well, fitting the criteria for a Band 7.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.0
The vocabulary is generally appropriate and sufficient for the task. The student uses topic-specific terms like 'digital media platforms', 'subscription', and 'economically and culturally'. There are some minor inaccuracies in word choice, such as 'true self of the movie' (which is slightly unnatural) and 'accessing the piece of entertainment' (where 'a piece' would be more accurate). While the range is adequate to convey meaning clearly, it lacks the sophistication and precision required for a higher band. The vocabulary is functional and allows for a smooth reading experience.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The student demonstrates a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are several grammatical errors, particularly with subject-verb agreement, such as 'Importance of cinemas and theatres have been' (should be 'has') and 'theatres and cinemas does not play' (should be 'do not play'). Additionally, there are minor issues with articles, such as 'in a phone' (should be 'on a phone') and 'in audience' (should be 'in the audience'). Despite these errors, the meaning is never obscured, and the sentence structures are varied enough to maintain interest. The control of grammar is generally good but requires more attention to detail.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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