Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-30

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Nowadays, a growing number of people with health problems are trying alternative medicines and treatments instead of visiting their usual doctor.

Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?

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

Student answer (Band 7.0)

Nowadays, an increasing number of people with health problems are choosing alternative medicines and treatments instead of visiting their regular doctor. Although some alternative treatments can provide benefits, I believe that this is generally a negative development because they may delay proper medical treatment and can sometimes be unsafe.

One major disadvantage is that alternative medicine may prevent people from receiving appropriate treatment at the right time. Many serious illnesses require accurate diagnosis and scientifically tested medication. If patients rely solely on alternative treatments, they may ignore symptoms that require professional attention. As a result, their condition could become more serious before they seek medical help. For example, a person suffering from a serious infection might use herbal remedies instead of taking prescribed antibiotics, allowing the illness to worsen.

Another concern is that not all alternative treatments have been sufficiently tested for safety and effectiveness. Some products may interact negatively with conventional medicines or cause unwanted side effects. In addition, people may spend considerable amounts of money on treatments that have little proven medical value. This can be particularly problematic for individuals who believe that a treatment is effective simply because it is described as natural.

However, some alternative therapies can be useful when they are used alongside conventional medical care. Treatments such as acupuncture or certain forms of massage may help some people manage pain or stress. Nevertheless, they should not normally be considered a complete replacement for professional medical advice, particularly when someone has a serious health condition.

In conclusion, although alternative treatments can have some benefits, I believe that replacing regular medical care with them is generally a negative development. People should consult qualified medical professionals and use alternative treatments cautiously, particularly for serious illnesses.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by presenting a clear position throughout that the growing trend of using alternative medicines instead of regular doctors is a negative development. The writer's position is supported by well-developed ideas regarding delayed medical treatment, safety concerns, and financial waste. For instance, the discussion on how patients might rely on herbal remedies instead of prescribed antibiotics provides a relevant and clear example that extends the argument logically. The introduction clearly states the writer's stance, and the conclusion succinctly reiterates the main points without introducing new information. The arguments are balanced by acknowledging that some therapies can be useful alongside conventional care, demonstrating depth in the analysis. This meets all requirements for a Band 7.0 performance.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from the introduction to two distinct negative arguments, a counter-argument paragraph, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly, such as 'One major disadvantage', 'As a result', 'Another concern', and 'However', which help guide the reader effortlessly through the text. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately to separate ideas. There are no notable faults in referencing or substitution. The progression of ideas is natural and coherent, fully supporting a Band 7.0 score.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The writer demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary for the task with some flexibility and precision. Words and phrases such as 'conventional medicines', 'scientifically tested medication', 'accurate diagnosis', and 'interact negatively' show a good grasp of topic-specific lection. There are also attempts at less common items, such as 'considerable amounts of money' and 'complete replacement'. Spelling and word choice are accurate throughout, and communication is never impeded. While it does not consistently display the sophisticated control or wide-ranging uncommon lection required for higher bands, the lexical resource is solid and appropriate, fitting a Band 7.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The essay exhibits a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences. The writer successfully employs conditional and dependent clauses, such as 'If patients rely solely on alternative treatments, they may ignore symptoms that require professional attention' and 'although alternative treatments can have some benefits, I believe that replacing regular medical care with them is generally a negative development.' There is a high frequency of error-free sentences, and punctuation is handled well throughout. Grammar and punctuation control is strong, with only very minor or no persistent errors noted, warranting a Band 8.0 for grammatical range and accuracy.

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