Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-29

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)

The rapid advancement of digital technology and streaming platforms has made entertainment accessible from the comfort of one's home. Consequently, it is argued by some that physical venues like theatres and cinemas have lost their relevance. However, others believe these institutions remain vital both culturally and economically.

Proponents of the view that draditional venues are obsolete highlight the sheer convenience and cost-effectiveness of online streaming. Platforms like Netflix and YouTube offer vast libraries of content instantly accessible on smartphones and televisions, eliminating the need to commute or purchase expensive tickets. Furthermore, modern home theatre technology allows viewers to enjoy high-definition visuals and sound without the crowds or rigid schedules of public screenings.

On the other hand, traditional cinemas and theatres continue to hold significant economic and cultural value. Economically, the entertainment industry relies heavily on box office revenues to recoup production costs and turn a profit for blockbuster movies. Additionally, local cinemas and live performance venues generate substantial employment, supporting staff, technical crews, hospitality, and surrounding commercial districts. Culturally, these spaces offer a shared, immersive experience that digital platforms cannot replicate. Attending a live play or watching a major film release in a packed cinemas fosters community bonding and a collective emotional reaction, preserving local performing arts traditions and storytelling.

In conclusion, while digital media offers unprecedented accessibility and convenience, it cannot replace the economic vitality and shared cultural experience provided by physical venues. In my opinion, cinemas and theatres will continue to play an essential role in society alongside online streaming.

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 and cinemas are obsolete in the digital age and the opposing perspective that they remain economically and culturally vital. Furthermore, the writer clearly states their own opinion in the introduction and reiterates it in the conclusion. Ideas are well developed and supported with relevant examples, such as reference to streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube, box office revenues, and community bonding. The position is maintained clearly throughout the essay, meeting all the requirements for a high band in Task Achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from an introduction to the two opposing views, and finally to a balanced conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, with transitional phrases like 'Consequently', 'Furthermore', and 'On the other hand' guiding the reader seamlessly between arguments. Paragraphing is managed sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring that the structure supports the flow of ideas without any obtrusive or mechanical transitions.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.0

The writer demonstrates a wide and flexible lexical range that is well-suited to an academic essay. Less common vocabulary items are used with good awareness of style and collocation, such as 'rapid advancement', 'cost-effectiveness', 'economic vitality', and 'immersive experience'. There are only very minor typographical errors, such as 'draditional venues' instead of 'traditional venues' and 'packed cinemas' instead of 'packed cinemas' or a 'packed cinema', but these do not impede communication and showcase an otherwise strong control of vocabulary.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The writer exhibits a strong command of grammatical structures, successfully employing a wide variety of complex sentences with subordinate clauses, participial phrases, and conditional ideas. The majority of sentences are error-free, demonstrating excellent control over punctuation and syntax. While there is a minor pluralisation slip near the end ('a packed cinemas'), this represents an isolated aberration in an otherwise highly accurate piece of writing. The structural variety and precision easily align with the descriptor for a high band.

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