Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-08-10
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 5.0)
While some people believe that the main environmental problem in modern times is the endangerment of living beings, like plants and animals, I believe that there are more crucial problems damaging the environment, such as deforestation and climate change.
It has become vital to clear forest areas to cater to the increasing global population. A number of individuals are moving from rural areas to urban areas to seek better opportunities, which therefore, requires the government expand the land area by cutting trees, to accommodate more housing. Moreover, the world is facing extreme climatic shifts and changes. The rising atmospheric temperature, has intensified summers across many regions, while the melting of glaciers and prolonged monsoon seasons have caused the sea level to rise, contributing to greater floods across the coastal countries. For instance, the heatwave in France in the June of 2026, shattered all records, leading to
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 4.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 4.0
The response is significantly under the 250-word minimum requirement, which severely impacts the ability to fully address the task. While you introduce the topic and state a position, the essay is incomplete, ending abruptly mid-sentence. You fail to discuss both views in a balanced manner or provide a conclusion. Because the response is unfinished, the ideas are not developed, and the prompt's requirement to discuss both sides is not met. To improve, you must ensure you provide a full introduction, two body paragraphs (one for each view), and a clear conclusion, while meeting the minimum word count.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The essay shows some attempt at logical organization, with a clear introduction and the start of a body paragraph. However, because the text is incomplete, it is impossible to assess the overall progression or the effective use of cohesive devices throughout a full essay. The paragraphing is currently insufficient due to the abrupt ending. To reach a higher band, you need to use a wider range of linking words (e.g., 'furthermore', 'consequently', 'in contrast') to connect ideas between and within paragraphs, and ensure the essay has a clear, logical structure from start to finish.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
You demonstrate a reasonable range of vocabulary, such as 'endangerment', 'cater to', 'climatic shifts', and 'prolonged'. These words are used appropriately and show an attempt to use topic-specific language. However, the limited length of the response restricts the overall range of vocabulary displayed. To improve, focus on incorporating more precise collocations and less common academic vocabulary. For example, instead of 'clear forest areas', you could use 'deforestation' or 'the clearing of woodland'. Expanding your vocabulary will help you express more complex ideas with greater precision.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The grammar is generally accurate in the sentences provided, with a mix of simple and complex structures. There are minor errors, such as the unnecessary comma after 'therefore' and the incorrect comma usage in 'temperature, has intensified'. Additionally, the sentence structure is somewhat repetitive. To achieve a higher score, you should aim for a greater variety of complex sentence forms, such as conditional sentences or passive voice, while maintaining accuracy. Ensure that your punctuation is precise and that you avoid unnecessary commas that break the flow of your sentences.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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