Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-08-25

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)

There is considerable debate about whether the extinction of particular species of plants and animals is the most serious environmental problem today, or whether other issues deserve greater attention. While the loss of biodiversity is undoubtedly a major concern, I believe that problems such as climate change and pollution are more urgent because of their wider and long-term effects.

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 other organisms that depend on it. For example, the decline of bees and other pollinating insects could negatively affect agricultural production because many crops rely on pollination. Furthermore, once a species becomes extinct, it cannot be recovered, meaning that the loss is permanent. Therefore, protecting endangered species is essential for maintaining biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.

On the other hand, there are environmental problems that have a much broader impact on both nature and human society. Climate change, for instance, is causing rising temperatures, melting glaciers and more frequent extreme weather events in many parts of the world. Similarly, air and water pollution can directly affect millions of people by causing health problems and damaging natural resources. These issues can also contribute to the loss of species, as rising temperatures, habitat destruction and polluted environments make it increasingly difficult for wildlife to survive. Consequently, tackling these wider problems could also help reduce biodiversity loss.

In my opinion, although the extinction of individual species is a serious environmental issue, climate change and pollution are currently more important because they affect entire ecosystems as well as human populations. Governments should therefore focus on reducing pollution and greenhouse-gas emissions while simultaneously introducing effective measures to protect endangered plants and animals.

In conclusion, the loss of species can cause irreversible damage to ecosystems, but I believe that broader environmental challenges, particularly climate change and pollution, should receive greater priority because of their extensive consequences.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly discuss both views regarding the importance of species extinction versus other environmental issues like climate change and pollution. Your own position is established in the introduction and maintained consistently throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, particularly the link between broader environmental issues and their secondary impact on biodiversity. The arguments are logical and supported by relevant examples, such as the decline of bees and the impact of melting glaciers. The response is balanced and demonstrates a clear 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, using appropriate cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'Consequently'. The use of referencing is precise, and the structure of the argument is easy to follow. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the different viewpoints and your own opinion. The flow of information is natural, and there is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary that is appropriate for an academic context. You use precise terminology such as 'biodiversity', 'irreversible damage', 'greenhouse-gas emissions', and 'agricultural production' with ease. The collocations are natural, and there are no significant errors in word choice. You successfully integrate less common lexical items to express complex ideas, which contributes to the overall clarity and sophistication of the writing. The vocabulary is varied and precise throughout the entire response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses and conditional structures. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense usage is excellent. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a high level of accuracy, which is consistent with the Band 8 descriptor. The use of modal verbs and passive voice is handled correctly, adding to the formal tone of the essay.

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