Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-08-20
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 5.5)
It is argued that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals while others say that there are more important environmental problems. This essay will discuss both views before presenting my opinion.
On the one hand, there are several disadvantages to loss of particular species of plants and animals. The main disadvantage is that plant and animals species represent cultural identity around the world. This is because the existence of different species play an essential role in the human environment which allows humans to maintain ecological balance. Another contributing disadvantages is that the loss of biodiversity can negatively effects the natural environment and human life. For instance, the extinction of bees can reduce pollination, which may lead to lower crop production and negativily effects food supplies. As a result, the loss of biodiversity can threaten food security and create serious environmental problem for generations.
On the other hand, there are several environmental problems. A primary problem is waste plastic materials which can pollute the environment and harm wildlife. This can cause serious environmental problems and threaten the survival of many species. The factories and vehicles release many harmful gases in the atmosphere. For instance, heavy traffic in large cities can produce a significant amount of pollution. As a result, people may suffer from respiratory problems, while the environment can also be demanged.
In my opinion, the particular species play an important role in environment whereas to address environmental issues are also essential.
In conclusion, environmental problems such as plastic pollution, air pollution and the loss of biodiversity can have serious consequences for both humans and wildlife. Therefore, the government and infinite should take effective measures to protect the environmenta and create a sustainable future .
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5
The response addresses both views regarding the loss of biodiversity versus other environmental problems. However, the development of ideas is somewhat uneven. While the argument for biodiversity is supported by a clear example (bees and pollination), the discussion of other environmental problems is more generic. The student's own opinion is stated in a single, somewhat underdeveloped sentence, which lacks the depth required for a higher band. To improve, the opinion should be more clearly integrated and justified throughout the essay, ensuring that the comparison between the two viewpoints is more analytical rather than just descriptive.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0
The essay is logically organized into paragraphs, and there is a clear progression of ideas. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'For instance' are used effectively to guide the reader. However, some transitions are slightly mechanical, and the concluding paragraph is somewhat abrupt. The reference to 'infinite' in the conclusion is unclear and appears to be a vocabulary error rather than a cohesive link. Overall, the paragraphing is appropriate, and the structure supports the flow of the argument, though it lacks the sophisticated, subtle cohesion found in higher bands.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.5
The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task, allowing the student to express ideas clearly. There are some attempts at topic-specific vocabulary like 'biodiversity', 'ecological balance', and 'pollination'. However, there are noticeable errors in word choice and form, such as 'negativily effects' (should be 'negatively affects') and 'demanged' (damaged). The word 'infinite' in the final paragraph is used incorrectly, likely intended to mean 'individuals' or 'institutions'. These errors do not impede communication, but they do limit the score as they show a lack of precision in more complex lexical items.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The student uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. While many sentences are clear, there are frequent grammatical errors, particularly with subject-verb agreement and word forms, such as 'plant and animals species' (plants and animal species) and 'contributing disadvantages' (contributing disadvantage). Punctuation is generally functional, but the control over complex structures is inconsistent. The errors are noticeable but rarely prevent the reader from understanding the intended meaning. To reach a higher band, the student should focus on proofreading for basic grammatical accuracy and increasing the variety of error-free complex sentences.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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