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 can access an enormous variety of films and other forms of entertainment through online platforms. As a result, some argue that cinemas and theatres have become unnecessary, while others believe that these venues continue to have significant cultural and economic value. In my view, although online entertainment is more convenient, cinemas and theatres remain important because they provide shared cultural experiences and contribute to local economies.
On the one hand, online entertainment has made it considerably easier for people to access films without visiting a cinema. Streaming platforms allow users to watch a wide range of content from the comfort of their homes and at a time that suits them. This is particularly beneficial for people with busy schedules or those who live far from cinemas. In addition, watching films online can be less expensive than purchasing cinema tickets and paying for transportation. For example, a university student can watch a newly released film at home after completing their studies rather than spending time travelling to a cinema. Therefore, the convenience and affordability of online entertainment have reduced people's dependence on traditional cinemas.
On the other hand, cinemas and theatres continue to serve important cultural and economic functions. Watching a film or theatrical performance in a cinema provides a shared experience that cannot be completely replicated by watching content alone at home. Furthermore, locally produced films and theatrical performances can preserve traditions, languages, and stories that might otherwise receive little attention. These venues also create employment and generate income for local businesses. For instance, when a film is produced in a smaller community, production companies may employ local workers and spend money on accommodation, transportation, and other services. If the area subsequently attracts tourists because of its cultural exposure, local businesses can benefit further.
In conclusion, although online platforms have made entertainment more accessible, convenient, and affordable, cinemas and theatres continue to provide valuable cultural and economic benefits. I therefore believe that these traditional forms of entertainment remain relevant despite the rapid growth of digital alternatives.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.5 |
| Overall | 7.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.0
The candidate has fully addressed all parts of the task by discussing both views—that cinemas and theatres are no longer important due to online entertainment, and that they remain culturally and economically significant. A clear position is established in the introduction ('cinemas and theatres remain important because they provide shared cultural experiences and contribute to local economies') and maintained consistently throughout the essay. The ideas are well extended and supported with relevant explanations and examples, such as the mention of university students watching films at home versus the economic impact on local communities during film production. This meets the criteria for a strong Band 7.5 to Band 8 performance.
Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.0
The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, starting with a well-formulated introduction, followed by balanced body paragraphs addressing each perspective ('On the one hand', 'On the other hand'), and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'In addition', 'For example', and 'Furthermore' are used effectively to link ideas, although there is slight room for more sophisticated transitions to reach the highest bands. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring the overall structure is easy to follow and navigate.
Lexical Resource: Band 6.5
The writer uses a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary for the task, successfully incorporating less common lexical items such as 'considerably easier', 'replicated', 'locally produced', and 'subsequently attracts tourists'. Word choice is generally precise, and collocation is natural, as seen in phrases like 'busy schedules' and 'cultural exposure'. There are very few lexical errors, and spelling is entirely accurate. While the range is competent and flexible, it stops just short of the wide, highly sophisticated vocabulary required for Band 8.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5
The essay demonstrates a good mix of complex and simple sentence forms, utilizing subordinate clauses and conditional elements effectively (e.g., 'although online entertainment is more convenient, cinemas and theatres remain important...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, with accurate punctuation and strong control over verb tenses and agreement. Minor slips or awkward formulations are virtually absent, placing the text firmly in the Band 8 category for grammatical range and accuracy due to its consistent control and varied sentence structures.
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