Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-17

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)

Many people argue that, in the modern era, theatres and cinemas are being neglected because people can watch a wide range of entertainment through online streaming platforms whenever they want. Others, however, believe that theatres and cinemas play a vital role in economic and cultural progress. I believe that cinemas and theatres can create a sense of community and bring loved ones closer together.

On the one hand, most people prefer online platforms for entertainment. They are more convenient and comfortable for people of all age groups. People can watch movies and dramas anytime and anywhere. Additionally, this option is cheaper than going to theatres and cinemas. For example, if someone misses a film because of work commitments, they can easily stream it at home. On the internet, people can also watch international movies and dramas. Therefore, online platforms are a budget-friendly and flexible way of accessing entertainment.

On the other hand, theatres and cinemas are also important for cultural and economic growth. They represent cultural heritage and customs and provide a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. For example, in Islamabad, many people go to cinemas and theatres for relaxation. They can spend quality time with their families and loved ones there. These places give people a chance to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Moreover, watching a movie on a big screen with loud sound can create an exciting atmosphere. As a result, cinemas and theatres remain popular among many people in cities across Pakistan.

In conclusion, although online streaming is very flexible and convenient, cinemas and theatres continue to play an important role in cultural and economic development. I believe that they remain valuable because they provide people with opportunities to relax, enjoy entertainment and spend quality time with their loved ones.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views—that theatres and cinemas are obsolete due to online streaming, and that they remain economically and culturally significant—while also providing a clear personal opinion. The writer establishes a position in the introduction and maintains it through to the conclusion. The ideas are generally well developed, particularly in the body paragraphs where specific points such as cost, convenience, and the social atmosphere of cinemas are elaborated upon. However, the discussion of economic significance in the third paragraph is somewhat brief and relies heavily on cultural and social aspects rather than robust economic analysis. Overall, the prompt is covered well, earning a solid Band 7.0 for fully addressing all parts of the task with a clear position and supported ideas.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus: the introduction outlines the topic and stance, the second paragraph discusses online platforms, the third examines the benefits of theatres and cinemas, and the conclusion summarises the main points. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Additionally', and 'Moreover' are used effectively to guide the reader through the arguments, though referencing is occasionally straightforward. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each new idea starting in a logical place. The progression of thought is smooth from start to finish, reflecting the characteristics of a Band 7.0 performance.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary for the task with some flexibility and precision, incorporating phrases such as 'online streaming platforms', 'cultural heritage', 'hustle and bustle', and 'budget-friendly'. There is an attempt to use less common vocabulary with an awareness of style and collocation, and spelling and word choice are generally accurate. While the vocabulary is adequate and allows the writer to communicate clearly, it lacks the broader flexibility, natural sophistication, and mastery of less common idiomatic or academic items required to reach Band 8. Minor inaccuracies in collocation occasionally surface, but overall the lexical resource comfortably meets the criteria for a Band 6.5.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The essay employs a mix of simple and complex sentence forms, demonstrating a reasonable command of grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include conditional clauses such as 'if someone misses a film because of work commitments, they can easily stream it at home.' Grammatical accuracy is generally good, and errors do not impede communication. However, the range of complex structures is somewhat limited compared to higher band requirements, and the essay lacks the frequent error-free complex sentences characteristic of a Band 7.0. Minor slips occur, but the control over basic and intermediate structures is steady, leading to a well-deserved Band 6.5 score.

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