Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · 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 7.5)

Some people believe that the loss of particular species of plants and animals is the most serious environmental problem facing the world today, while others argue that other environmental issues are more important. Although the extinction of species is undoubtedly a major concern, I believe that problems such as climate change, pollution and deforestation have a broader and more immediate impact on both nature and human life.

On the one hand, the disappearance of plant and animal species can have serious consequences for the environment. Every species plays a role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem, and the extinction of one species can affect many others. For example, the decline of bees and other pollinating insects can reduce the pollination of crops, potentially threatening food production. Furthermore, once a species becomes extinct, it is impossible to bring it back. Therefore, protecting endangered species is essential for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring that ecosystems remain healthy.

On the other hand, there are several environmental problems that may be even more significant because they affect much larger areas and populations. Climate change, for instance, is causing rising temperatures, melting glaciers, sea-level rise and more frequent extreme weather events. Similarly, air and water pollution can directly threaten human health and damage ecosystems. Deforestation is another major issue because it destroys natural habitats while also reducing the number of trees that absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. These problems can therefore contribute to species loss as well as creating serious risks for human beings.

In my opinion, species extinction should not be considered separately from other environmental problems. In many cases, it is actually a consequence of broader issues such as climate change, habitat destruction and pollution. For this reason, governments should focus on addressing the root causes of environmental damage rather than concentrating only on individual endangered species.

In conclusion, although the loss of plant and animal species is a serious environmental concern, I believe that climate change, pollution and deforestation are more important because of their wider and more immediate consequences. Tackling these problems would also help prevent further loss of biodiversity.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly discuss both views—the importance of species loss and the significance of broader environmental issues like climate change—and provide a well-reasoned personal opinion. The position is consistent throughout the essay. Ideas are well-developed, particularly the explanation of how species loss is often a symptom of larger environmental degradation. The arguments are logical and supported by relevant examples, such as the decline of bees and the impact of deforestation on carbon absorption. The response is balanced and demonstrates a strong understanding of the task requirements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'On the one hand', 'Furthermore', 'Similarly', and 'For this reason', which help guide the reader through your argument. The paragraphing is appropriate, with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs exploring the opposing views, a paragraph for your own perspective, and a concise conclusion. The flow of information is natural and easy to follow throughout the entire piece.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which is used with precision. Phrases such as 'maintaining the balance of an ecosystem', 'pollinating insects', 'extreme weather events', and 'root causes of environmental damage' show a sophisticated command of the topic. The vocabulary is natural and appropriate for an academic context. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used is sufficiently varied to convey complex ideas clearly and effectively.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures with high accuracy. You successfully use complex sentences, such as conditional structures ('once a species becomes extinct, it is impossible to bring it back') and subordinate clauses ('Although the extinction of species is undoubtedly a major concern, I believe that...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is used correctly throughout. There is a high level of control over grammar, and the few minor slips that might occur are rare and do not impede communication in any way.

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