Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-08-15

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)

Certain individuals argue that the primary environmental concern of our time is the decline in the number of species of plants and animals, while others contend that there are more pressing environmental challenges.

To begin with, many people believe that the main environmental issue today is the decrease in certain species because maintaining a good balance in biodiversity is crucial. The loss of even one specific species can create significant problems in our food chain. For instance, a decline in lion populations may lead to an increase in deer species, which are herbivores. Consequently, the growth in deer populations can result in a reduced area of grassland.

On the other hand, some argue that more critical challenges exist, such as climate change, which has a direct impact on both wildlife and humans. In recent years, the overconsumption of fossil fuels has led to carbon dioxide emissions that have devastating effects on our atmosphere. These emissions contribute to an increase in the average global temperature, resulting in increasingly unpredictable weather. Additionally, summers have become hotter and longer than in the past, further exacerbating drought conditions.

In my view, maintaining a balance between wildlife and a suitable climate for both plants and animals is essential for sustaining life on Earth.

In conclusion, while many people believe that the decline of endangered species is the main concern due to its potential disruption of the food chain, others argue that climate change poses a more significant threat to our environment. In my opinion, both issues should be addressed as interconnected problems.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response addresses both views and provides a clear personal opinion. However, the development of ideas is somewhat limited. While the example of the lion and deer is relevant, the discussion on climate change is quite general. To reach a higher band, the connection between the two viewpoints could be more deeply explored. The conclusion is clear, but the overall argument lacks the depth and extension required for a higher score. The position is consistent throughout, but the essay feels slightly brief in its analysis of the complexity of the environmental issues presented.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the two viewpoints and the personal opinion. Cohesive devices such as 'To begin with', 'Consequently', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion' are used appropriately to guide the reader. The flow between sentences is smooth, and the referencing is clear. The structure is coherent, though the transition between the body paragraphs and the personal opinion could be more integrated to improve the overall flow.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The vocabulary is adequate for the task and conveys the meaning clearly. There is some use of topic-specific vocabulary such as 'biodiversity', 'food chain', 'fossil fuels', and 'carbon dioxide emissions'. However, the range of vocabulary is somewhat limited, and there is a reliance on fairly common phrases. To improve, the student should incorporate more sophisticated or precise collocations to demonstrate a wider range of lexical control. The word choice is generally accurate, and there are no spelling errors that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The essay demonstrates a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Most sentences are error-free, and the grammar is generally accurate. There is a good use of subordinate clauses, such as 'while others contend that...' and 'which has a direct impact on...'. Punctuation is used correctly throughout. While the grammatical control is solid, the range of complex structures is somewhat standard. To achieve a higher band, the student could experiment with a wider variety of advanced grammatical forms, such as inversion or more complex conditional structures.

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