Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · 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 6.5)

In recent years, there has been a growing debate about whether theatres and cinemas are still relevant. Some argue that they have become unnecessary because of online platforms, while others believe that these places are still important from economic and cultural perspectives. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe that these physical entertainment venues cannot be fully replaced by digital platforms.

On the one hand, online platforms are more convenient for people in the modern world. People are more comfortable watching their favourite films or programmes on televisions, laptops and mobile phones at home and at a suitable time. Moreover, watching films online is usually less expensive than buying cinema tickets. Individuals can also find many options according to their interests on digital platforms. For example, a person may choose to watch the latest movie or TV show while doing other activities, and they are not required to watch the whole programme in one sitting.

On the other hand, theatres and cinemas play a significant role in providing employment opportunities. These venues provide jobs for staff, technicians and other workers in the entertainment industry. In addition, physical venues provide an atmosphere with large screens and high-quality sound systems, which may not be available at home. Furthermore, such places are important for preserving cultural values. Theatres provide live performances by local actors and artists, which can promote the culture and traditions of an area. Similarly, cinemas can help promote local films and support actors and filmmakers.

However, due to advances in technology, a large number of people have shifted towards online sources. I believe that governments and relevant authorities should continue supporting theatres and cinemas because they are important for both the economy and cultural life. This can be achieved by maintaining a balance between online sources and physical entertainment venues.

In conclusion, although digital platforms are more convenient and cheaper than cinemas and theatres, these physical venues are still relevant in the digital age because of their economic and cultural benefits.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The response successfully addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing both the view that theatres and cinemas are no longer important due to online platforms and the view that they remain economically and culturally significant. The student clearly outlines their own position in the introduction and maintains it throughout the essay. Ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the economic contribution through employment and cultural preservation via live performances. The arguments flow logically from one paragraph to the next, satisfying all requirements of Band 7 for this criterion.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates 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, a counter-perspective with the student's opinion, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly (e.g., 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Moreover', 'Furthermore'), without appearing mechanical. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct ideas and arguments. The overall structure is sound and meets Band 7 descriptors.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with adequate flexibility and precision for the task. Less common lexical items such as 'employment opportunities', 'preserving cultural values', and 'physical entertainment venues' are integrated successfully. There is an awareness of style and collocation, though some choices remain relatively standard (e.g., 'watching films online', 'convenient for people'). Spelling and word formation are generally accurate throughout the response, allowing for smooth communication and aligning well with a Band 7 score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The response features a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including conditional clauses and relative clauses (e.g., 'which may not be available at home', 'although digital platforms are more convenient'). There is a high frequency of error-free sentences, and grammar and punctuation are controlled well. Minor errors or awkward phrasings are very sparse and do not impede communication in any way. The level of grammatical control and variety clearly supports a Band 7 rating.

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