Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-07-30

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental problems. 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 8.5)

Environmental issues have become a growing concern worldwide. While some people believe that the extinction of certain species is the most serious environmental challenge, others argue that problems such as climate change and pollution deserve greater attention. I believe that although protecting biodiversity is essential, broader environmental issues pose a greater threat because they affect both nature and human life.

On the one hand, the loss of plant and animal species is a significant concern. Every species plays a unique role in maintaining ecological balance, and its disappearance can disrupt entire ecosystems. For example, the decline of bees has reduced pollination, negatively affecting crop production and food security. Moreover, many plants and animals possess medicinal and scientific value, which could benefit future generations if preserved.

On the other hand, climate change, pollution, and deforestation have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the loss of wildlife. Rising global temperatures contribute to extreme weather events, melting glaciers, and rising sea levels, while air and water pollution endanger millions of people every year. Furthermore, deforestation destroys natural habitats and accelerates global warming. These issues not only threaten biodiversity but also have severe economic, social, and health-related impacts.

In my opinion, environmental problems should be viewed as interconnected rather than isolated. However, climate change and pollution deserve higher priority because they are the root causes of biodiversity loss and many other environmental crises. Addressing these larger challenges would also help protect endangered species.

In conclusion, although the extinction of plants and animals is a serious issue, I believe that tackling climate change, pollution, and deforestation is more urgent due to their widespread and long-term effects.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You have clearly discussed both views regarding the importance of biodiversity loss versus broader environmental issues like climate change. Your position is established in the introduction and maintained consistently throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, particularly the link between biodiversity and ecological balance, and the argument that climate change acts as a root cause for other environmental crises. The response is balanced and provides relevant examples, such as the decline of bees and the impact of rising sea levels, which effectively support your arguments. The conclusion provides a clear summary of your stance.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'On the one hand', 'Moreover', 'Furthermore', and 'In conclusion', which help guide the reader through your argument. The paragraphing is appropriate, with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs discussing the opposing views, a paragraph for your own opinion, and a conclusion. The referencing is clear, and the flow of information is natural throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for an academic essay. You use precise terms such as 'ecological balance', 'pollination', 'food security', and 'far-reaching consequences'. The language is natural and fits the context well. While the vocabulary is accurate and sufficient, there is room to incorporate more sophisticated or less common lexical items to reach the highest band. However, the current range is flexible and allows for precise expression of your ideas without any noticeable errors in word choice or collocation.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5

The essay displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as the use of conditional and concessive clauses (e.g., 'While some people believe...', 'Although protecting biodiversity is essential...'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and grammar is strong. There are no significant errors that impede communication. The structure is varied, moving between simple and complex forms effectively, which demonstrates a good command of English grammar. The writing is clear, professional, and grammatically sound throughout.

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