Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-08-06

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)

The advancement of our civilisation is degrading our Mother Earth in various ways. Individuals believe that the driving factor of environmental problems is the loss of endangered species of our flora and fauna, while the other group believes that there are various more important problems.

This essay will discuss both viewpoints before presenting my own opinion, which is that while species loss is a serious concern, broader problems such as climate change pose a greater threat to the planet.

On the one hand, proponents of the view that species extinction is the foremost environmental issue point to the irreversible nature of this loss. Once a species disappears, it cannot be brought back, and its absence can destabilise entire ecosystems. For instance, the decline in bee populations due to pesticide use has disrupted pollination cycles, threatening food production on a global scale. Biodiversity loss, therefore, is not merely an aesthetic or emotional concern but one with direct consequences for human survival, since ecosystems rely on a web of interdependent species to function.

On the other hand, many argue that other environmental issues carry more far-reaching consequences and, in fact, drive species loss itself. Climate change is frequently cited as the most pressing concern, as rising global temperatures cause sea levels to rise, extreme weather events to intensify, and habitats to shrink or disappear altogether. Air and water pollution are equally significant, given that they directly endanger human health, contaminate food chains, and degrade natural resources that both people and wildlife depend on. From this perspective, species extinction is better understood as a symptom of these larger crises rather than the root problem.

In my opinion, while the loss of biodiversity is undeniably tragic and warrants serious attention, it should be viewed as one consequence among many of broader environmental degradation, rather than the central issue itself. Climate change, in particular, underlies numerous other problems, including habitat destruction, extreme weather, and food insecurity, making it the more urgent priority for global action.

In conclusion, although species extinction remains a valid and pressing concern, I believe that overarching issues such as climate change deserve greater attention, since addressing them would simultaneously alleviate multiple environmental problems, including the loss of biodiversity itself.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly discussed both viewpoints regarding environmental priorities and provided a well-supported personal opinion. The ideas are logically developed, particularly the argument that species loss is a symptom of broader issues like climate change. The position is consistent throughout the essay, and the conclusion effectively synthesises the main points. The use of the bee population example is a strong, relevant illustration that supports your argument well. The response is well-structured and meets all requirements for a high-level task response.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the two viewpoints is smooth. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'For instance', and 'In conclusion'. The paragraphing is logical and helps the reader follow your argument without difficulty. Referencing is clear throughout, and the flow of information is natural. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words, which indicates a high level of control over the structure of the essay.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You have used a wide range of vocabulary with precision and flexibility. Phrases such as 'irreversible nature', 'destabilise entire ecosystems', 'interdependent species', and 'overarching issues' demonstrate a sophisticated command of language. The collocations are natural and appropriate for an academic context. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or spelling. You successfully use less common lexical items to convey complex ideas clearly, which is a hallmark of a high-scoring response. The vocabulary is consistently accurate and contributes significantly to the overall quality of the writing.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay exhibits a wide range of complex grammatical structures, including conditional clauses, relative clauses, and passive constructions. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over punctuation is excellent. You have successfully integrated complex ideas into well-formed sentences without sacrificing clarity. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. The use of varied sentence lengths and structures keeps the writing engaging and demonstrates a high level of grammatical competence. The accuracy is consistent throughout the piece, reflecting a strong command of English grammar.

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