Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · 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 6.0)

In recent years, environmental problems have escalated rapidly. A group of people argue that the most significant issue of our time is the loss of particular species of flora and fauna. On the other hand, some believe that other environmental challenges, such as pollution, deforestation, and global warming, are more critical. Both perspectives, along with my opinion, will be discussed in the ensuing paragraphs.

Examining the first viewpoint, some individuals highlight that many species of plants and animals have become extinct due to human activities. The primary reason behind this is urbanization and population growth, which have led to forests being cleared for agriculture, infrastructure, and industrial development. As a result, numerous species have disappeared, disrupting ecosystems and creating imbalances that threaten biodiversity and the natural environment.

In contrast, others argue that while species extinction is concerning, there are more pressing environmental problems that directly affect human life. Industrialization has led to hazardous waste being discharged into rivers and oceans, polluting water bodies. Additionally, harmful gases released from factories contribute to global warming and damage the ozone layer. These issues pose immediate risks to human health and survival, making them more urgent than species loss.

To conclude, although some believe that the extinction of flora and fauna is the primary environmental concern, I hold the view that other problems such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change are equally, if not more, critical. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure a sustainable environment for both humans and wildlife (flora and fauna)

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both viewpoints and providing a clear personal opinion. The ideas are relevant and logically structured. However, the development of the arguments is somewhat brief. For instance, while you mention that pollution and global warming are 'more critical', you could have provided a more specific example or a deeper explanation of why these issues are more urgent than biodiversity loss to reach a higher band. The position is consistent throughout, but the depth of analysis is limited, which prevents a higher score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The essay is well-organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central topic, and the progression of ideas is logical. You use cohesive devices such as 'In contrast', 'Additionally', and 'To conclude' effectively to link your thoughts. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the flow of information is smooth. To improve, you could vary your cohesive devices further to avoid a slightly mechanical feel in the transitions between sentences.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Terms such as 'urbanization', 'biodiversity', 'industrialization', and 'sustainable environment' are used correctly and appropriately. There is some repetition of 'flora and fauna' and 'environmental problems', which limits the range. While the vocabulary is accurate and fits the academic context well, it lacks the more sophisticated, less common lexical items that would characterize a higher band score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The essay displays a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Most sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation is solid. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. You successfully use complex structures, such as 'although some believe that... I hold the view that...', which shows good control. To reach a higher band, you could incorporate a wider variety of complex grammatical forms, such as conditional sentences or more varied passive constructions, while maintaining this level of accuracy.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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