Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-15

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 7.5)

In the contemporary era of advanced streaming technology, a contentious debate surrounds the relevance of conventional cinemas. While some argue that traditional movie theatres are obsolete due to the unmatched flexibility of online entertainment, others contend that they remain indispensable for economic and cultural reasons. Although digital platforms offer undeniable convenience, I firmly believe that theatres are crucial because they sustain livelihoods and preserve cultural heritage.

On the one hand, proponents of online streaming highlight the unprecedented convenience and accessibility of modern digital devices. Movie enthusiasts can access a vast library of content anytime and anywhere, provided they have an internet connection and a subscription. For instance, commuters traveling by train can easily pass the time by watching films on platforms like Netflix or Amazon Prime. Furthermore, digital services often allow users to replay content multiple times without incurring additional costs, whereas traditional cinemas require a separate ticket purchase for every single viewing. This high degree of flexibility and cost-effectiveness makes online viewing highly appealing to the modern consumer.

On the other hand, traditional cinema halls and theatres play a vital role in supporting the economy and fostering cultural continuity. Theatres serve as a primary source of income for a vast network of professionals, including actors, musicians, technicians, and backstage crew members. The decline of theatrical releases would consequently devastate the livelihoods of countless individuals dependent on this industry. Beyond financial implications, physical venues are instrumental in maintaining cultural traditions. For example, live theatrical performances and community-based cinema viewings provide a shared storytelling experience that strengthens social bonds—an aspect largely absent from the isolated experience of streaming content at home.

In conclusion, while online platforms undeniably offer superior comfort and flexibility, I strongly concur that cinemas and theatres retain profound importance in society. Their ability to drive the economy and safeguard cultural identity ensures they can never be entirely replaced by digital alternatives.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the view that theatres are obsolete due to online streaming and the counterargument that they remain crucial economically and culturally. The writer clearly states their personal position in the introduction and maintains it consistently throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the mention of commuters utilizing platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, as well as the economic impact on professionals like actors, musicians, and technicians. The response easily meets the requirements of a Band 8 by covering all aspects of the prompt thoroughly, with well-supported arguments and no noticeable omissions.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a very clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from the introduction to the first view, the second view, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly without feeling mechanical, as seen with transitional phrases like 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'Furthermore'. Referencing is clear and precise, and paragraphing is managed sufficiently and appropriately. The structure effortlessly guides the reader through the argumentation, aligning closely with the Band 8 descriptor for logical sequencing and skilful cohesion.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The candidate displays a wide, fluent, and flexible lexical range suitable for an academic essay. There is skilful use of uncommon and precise items such as 'contemporary era', 'contentious debate', 'unprecedented convenience', 'livelihoods', and 'cultural continuity'. Word choice and collocations are generally very natural, with only occasional minor imperfections. Spelling and word formation are entirely accurate throughout the text. The vocabulary deployed goes well beyond the minimum requirements and contributes significantly to the sophisticated academic tone of the response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The writer employs a wide range of complex sentence structures with a high degree of flexibility and control. Examples include concessive clauses ('While some argue that...'), participial phrases ('traveling by train'), and conditional constructions ('provided they have an internet connection'). The majority of sentences are completely error-free, and punctuation is handled with precision. Only very occasional, minor awkwardnesses might appear, but they never impede communication or detract from the overall flow. The grammatical control consistently reflects a Band 8 standard of accuracy and variety.

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