Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-09-14

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In some parts of the world, people buy far too many clothes.

What are the reasons for this?
How can people be persuaded to reduce the number of clothes they buy?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 7.0)

In many parts of the world, people often purchase far more clothes than they actually need. This trend is massively driven by fast fashion, social media, and aggressive marketing. However, there are several effective strategies that can encourage individuals to diminish their clothing consumption.

One major factor is the rapid turnover of fashion trends. Clothing companies frequently release new collections at affordable prices, prompting consumers to replace their existing wardrobes. Additionally, social media has intensified concerns about personal appearance. Influencers often showcase new outfits, leading some people to feel that wearing the same clothes repeatedly is boring and outdated. Moreover, frequent discounts and special offers can spur unnecessary purchases, as people believe that they are saving money, while buying them regularly may lead to excessive spending and significant waste.

Several factors can help address this issue. Initially, governments and schools could educate the public about the environmental impact of fast fashion. Consumers should be encouraged to buy fewer, higher-quality items that will last for years. Furthermore, clothing companies could also be incentivized to produce durable garments and lessen the number of collections they introduce. In addition, the population could be persuaded to repair, reuse and donate unwanted clothes instead of purchasing new pieces. For instance, a person might invest in a few well-made shirts rather than buying several cheap ones every season.

In conclusion, excessive clothing consumption is mainly caused by changing trends, social media influences, and attractive pricing, while altering this habit may be challenging. Greater awareness, accountable shopping practices, and sustainable fashion can make a considerable difference.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by clearly identifying the reasons for excessive clothing consumption—such as fast fashion, social media trends, and aggressive marketing—and suggesting effective solutions like education, durable manufacturing, and recycling. The position is clear throughout the essay. Ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant explanations and a concrete example regarding investing in well-made shirts. The arguments flow logically from the causes to the solutions, meeting the criteria for a Band 7.5 or 8.0. Because all parts of the prompt are covered thoroughly with good extension of ideas, a Band 7.5 is well-deserved.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are coherently structured, moving smoothly from the introduction to the causes in the second paragraph, the solutions in the third, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly, including transition signals like 'Additionally', 'Moreover', and 'Furthermore'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct central theme. There are no notable faults in referencing or logical sequencing, indicating strong control over the textual flow.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary for the task, allowing for some flexibility and precision. Phrases such as 'rapid turnover', 'environmental impact', 'durable garments', and 'excessive clothing consumption' show an ability to use less common lexical items with a good awareness of style and collocation. Word choices are generally natural and accurate. While there is minor room for more idiomatic or highly sophisticated academic phrasing, the vocabulary used effectively conveys precise meanings without impeding communication at any point.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The essay exhibits a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentence forms. The majority of sentences are error-free, demonstrating good control of grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include conditional or participial clauses like 'as people believe that they are saving money, while buying them regularly may lead to excessive spending'. Grammatical control is strong throughout, with only occasional minor slips or phrasing that does not disrupt overall readability. The punctuation is accurate, and sentence boundaries are well-managed.

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