Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-30

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)

Opinions are divided on whether theatres and cinemas are no longer important because people can watch entertainment online, or whether these venues are still important both economically and culturally. While I understand why some people support the former view, I am still in favour of the latter.

Those who believe that theatres and cinemas are no longer important argue that online entertainment is more convenient in modern life. From their point of view, many people have busy schedules because of their work and studies. Therefore, they may not have enough free time to visit a cinema or theatre. Moreover, ticket prices can be expensive, especially for people on low incomes who may face financial difficulties. Another point is that audiences may not have enough time to watch a full movie or play. For instance, if someone wants to watch a Harry Potter movie in a cinema, they need to have at least three hours of free time, including travelling and waiting time.

Nevertheless, I still believe that theatres and cinemas remain significant for economic development and cultural preservation. Chief among these reasons is that the film and entertainment industries can contribute to the national economy. For example, during the 2026 Tet holiday in Vietnam, a Vietnamese film generated hundreds of billions of VND in box-office revenue, creating income for cinemas, producers and other businesses involved in the industry. This shows that the entertainment sector can contribute to economic activity. Another reason is that films and plays can help children, foreigners and students learn about the history and culture of their hometowns and countries. By experiencing traditional stories and cultural values through entertainment, younger generations may develop a better understanding of their national identity. As a result, theatres and cinemas can play a role in preserving cultural values for future generations.

In conclusion, although I acknowledge why some people believe that cinemas and theatres are becoming less important in the digital age, I still believe that they remain important because they contribute to economic activity and help preserve cultural values.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The response fully addresses 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 economically and culturally significant. The student also presents a clear position throughout the essay, starting from the introduction and maintaining it until the conclusion. Ideas are well developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the mention of box-office revenue during the Tet holiday in Vietnam. The arguments presented are logical, relevant, and fully extended, aligning well with the Band 7 descriptors.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are coherently structured, with each paragraph having a clear central topic. The student uses a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'While I understand', 'Moreover', 'Nevertheless', and 'Chief among these reasons is that'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately to separate the introduction, the opposing view, the student's view, and the conclusion. Referencing is clear and appropriate, ensuring smooth transitions between sentences and paragraphs, which fits the Band 7 descriptor.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision, suitable for discussing cultural and economic topics. Less common lexical items are used appropriately, such as 'cultural preservation', 'box-office revenue', 'national economy', and 'national identity'. There is an awareness of style and collocation, and spelling throughout the text is accurate. While the vocabulary is not fully sophisticated enough for a Band 8, it easily meets the criteria for Band 7 by allowing clear and precise communication of complex ideas.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The writer employs a good variety of complex structures alongside simple forms, including conditional-like structures, relative clauses, and subordinate clauses (e.g., 'Opinions are divided on whether...', 'While I understand why some people support the former view, I am still in favour of the latter'). There are frequent error-free sentences, and the control of grammar and punctuation is strong throughout the response. Minor slips do occur, but they never impede communication, placing the response solidly in the Band 7 category.

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