Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-24
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 7.0)
In the digital age, people have access to an enormous amount of entertainment through the internet. Although some people believe that theatres and cinemas are becoming unnecessary, I believe that they still play an important economic and cultural role in society.
On the one hand, it is understandable why many people think that cinemas and theatres are no longer essential. Online platforms such as Netflix and YouTube allow people to watch films, TV programmes and other forms of entertainment whenever and wherever they want. This is often cheaper and more convenient than travelling to a cinema or buying a theatre ticket. In addition, people can enjoy a much wider range of content online, including international films and independent productions that may not be shown locally.
On the other hand, cinemas and theatres provide experiences that cannot be completely replaced by online entertainment. Watching a film on a large screen with high-quality sound can be far more immersive than viewing it on a phone or laptop. Similarly, live theatre allows audiences to experience actors performing in front of them, which creates a unique atmosphere and emotional connection. These venues also have cultural importance because they provide opportunities for local artists and help preserve traditional forms of performance.
Furthermore, cinemas and theatres contribute significantly to the economy. They provide employment for actors, directors, technicians, ushers and many other workers. They also support related businesses such as restaurants, transport services and shopping centres, particularly in large cities.
In conclusion, although online entertainment is more convenient and has changed people's viewing habits, theatres and cinemas remain valuable. Their unique experiences, cultural contribution and economic benefits mean that they are likely to remain important even as digital entertainment continues to grow.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 6.5 |
| Overall | 7.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5
The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing both views—the rise of online entertainment making traditional venues obsolete versus their continued economic and cultural importance—and clearly provides the author's own opinion throughout. The position is well-developed, with clear arguments presented for both perspectives. For instance, the student explores the convenience and cost-effectiveness of online platforms like Netflix and YouTube, while contrasting this with the immersive sensory experience, live atmosphere, and economic contribution of cinemas and theatres. The ideas are well-extended and supported with relevant examples, meeting the criteria for a strong performance.
Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5
The essay displays a clear logical organisation and natural progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving smoothly from the introduction to the first view, the opposing view, economic impacts, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly without being obtrusive, as seen in transition phrases such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'Furthermore'. Paragraphing is managed sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring that the reader can easily follow the progression of arguments from one point to the next.
Lexical Resource: Band 6.5
The student uses a sufficient and generally appropriate range of vocabulary for the task, demonstrating some flexibility and precision with terms like 'immersive', 'independent productions', 'cultural importance', and 'viewing habits'. There is a good attempt to use less common items with adequate awareness of style and collocation, such as 'contribute significantly' and 'preserve traditional forms'. While the vocabulary is largely standard rather than highly sophisticated, it communicates the intended ideas accurately with no noticeable spelling or word-choice errors that impede understanding.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5
The essay demonstrates a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, showing overall strong control of grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include concessive clauses ('Although some people believe that...') and relative clauses ('...that may not be shown locally'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly throughout. While it stops just short of the wide range and flexibility required for higher bands due to relatively straightforward syntactic patterns, the grammar is accurate and does not impede communication at any point.
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