Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · 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 7.5)

In recent years, ecological degradation has become a central focus of global discourse. While some individuals argue that the accelerating eradication of specific flora and fauna constitutes the most critical environmental crisis of our era, others contend that alternative issues, such as global warming and plastic pollution, demand greater priority. In my opinion, while biodiversity loss is undeniably catastrophic, it is ultimately a symptom of broader, more systemic environmental crises like climate change, which represent a more profound threat to our planet.

On the one hand, those who prioritize the conservation of endangered species argue from an ecological standpoint of interconnectedness. Ecosystems rely on a delicate balance, where every organism plays a unique role. The extinction of a single "keystone species" can trigger a domino effect, leading to the collapse of an entire habitat. For instance, the decline of bee populations worldwide threatens global agriculture, as they are primary pollinators for a vast majority of human crops. Furthermore, the loss of unique plant species reduces our potential to discover novel compounds for life-saving medicines. For these reasons, many view extinction as an irreversible tragedy that deserves immediate, concentrated international attention.

On the other hand, a compelling argument exists that other environmental dilemmas possess more far-reaching and existential consequences. Chief among these is global climate change driven by greenhouse gas emissions. Rising global temperatures do not just affect localized ecosystems; they cause rising sea levels, severe droughts, and extreme weather events that threaten the global human population, food security, and economic stability. Similarly, widespread pollution—such as the massive accumulation of microplastics in our oceans—chemically alters environments on a global scale, poisoning marine life and entering the human food chain.

In my view, prioritizing species loss over these broader issues is a flawed approach because the crises are fundamentally linked. We cannot effectively save endangered animals and plants without addressing the deteriorating environments they inhabit. Deforestation in the Amazon and the bleaching of coral reefs are driven directly by human industrial expansion and rising global temperatures. Therefore, if we successfully combat climate change by transitioning to renewable energy and strictly regulating industrial pollution, we naturally preserve the natural habitats required for wildlife to thrive.

In conclusion, while the loss of individual plant and animal species is an urgent ecological disaster, it should not be viewed in isolation. I believe that systemic global issues, particularly climate change and widespread environmental pollution, are more critical because they are the root causes of biodiversity loss and pose an immediate threat to all life on Earth.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You have clearly discussed both views—the importance of biodiversity loss and the argument for broader environmental crises like climate change—while maintaining a consistent and well-supported personal position. Your ideas are well-developed, particularly the link you draw between species loss and systemic environmental issues. The argument is logical and persuasive, showing a sophisticated understanding of the topic. There are no omissions, and the response is balanced and focused throughout.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is exceptionally well-structured. Each paragraph has a clear central theme, and the progression of ideas is logical and easy to follow. You use a wide range of cohesive devices, such as 'On the one hand,' 'Furthermore,' and 'Therefore,' which are used naturally and effectively to link sentences and paragraphs. The transition between the two viewpoints and your own opinion is seamless. Paragraphing is used skilfully to separate distinct arguments, ensuring the reader is never confused about the direction of your reasoning.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary. You use precise, academic terminology such as 'ecological degradation,' 'keystone species,' 'existential consequences,' and 'systemic environmental crises' with high accuracy. The collocation is natural throughout, and there is a clear awareness of style. You avoid repetition and use uncommon lexical items effectively to convey nuanced meanings. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or spelling, reflecting a high level of lexical control.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The response exhibits a wide range of complex grammatical structures, including conditional sentences, relative clauses, and sophisticated passive constructions. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation is excellent. You use a variety of sentence lengths and types to maintain a professional and academic tone. There are no grammatical slips that impede communication, and the overall accuracy is very high, consistent with a band 8 or 9 level.

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