Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-08-05
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 7.0)
Some people believe that the greatest environmental challenge facing the world today is the extinction of certain species of plants and animals. Others argue that issues such as climate change, pollution and deforestation are more serious. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe broader environmental problems deserve greater attention.
On the one hand, the loss of biodiversity is undoubtedly a major concern. Every species plays an important role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems, and the extinction of even a single species can have far-reaching consequences. For example, the disappearance of bees in some regions has threatened crop production because they are essential pollinators. Furthermore, many plants and animals have potential scientific and medical value, which may be lost forever if they become extinct. Therefore, protecting endangered species is essential for preserving the natural environment.
On the other hand, I believe that global environmental issues such as climate change and pollution are even more significant because they affect all forms of life on Earth. Rising temperatures, melting ice caps and extreme weather events threaten not only wildlife but also human health, food security and economic development. Likewise, air and water pollution cause millions of deaths each year and damage ecosystems on a large scale. Since these problems are often the root causes of habitat destruction and species extinction, addressing them would also help protect biodiversity.
In conclusion, although the disappearance of plants and animals is a serious environmental issue, I agree that larger problems such as climate change, pollution and deforestation are more urgent. Solving these global challenges will not only improve human well-being but also help preserve countless species for future generations.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.0 |
| Overall | 7.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0
The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You have clearly discussed both views—the importance of biodiversity and the broader impact of climate change—and provided a clear personal position throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, such as the example of bees and crop production, and the logical link between global environmental issues and species extinction is well-articulated. The position is consistent and supported by relevant reasoning, meeting the requirements for a high band score.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0
The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic, and the transition between the two viewpoints is smooth, using appropriate cohesive devices like 'On the one hand', 'Furthermore', and 'In conclusion'. The paragraphing is logical and contributes to the overall flow of the argument. The use of referencing is precise, and the relationship between ideas is easy to follow throughout the text.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.5
You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for an academic context. Phrases such as 'maintaining the balance of ecosystems', 'far-reaching consequences', and 'root causes of habitat destruction' show a level of precision and sophistication. The word choice is natural and accurate, and there are no significant errors in collocation or spelling. While the vocabulary is effective, incorporating a few more nuanced, less common academic collocations could elevate the response further.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0
The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses (e.g., 'Since these problems are often the root causes...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is used correctly to enhance clarity. There is a high level of control over tense and subject-verb agreement. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a sophisticated command of English grammar, with only rare, minor slips, if any, which do not impede communication.
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