Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-14

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 6.5)

Some people believe that the disappearance of certain species of plants and animals is the most serious environmental problem today, while others argue that there are more significant environmental issues. This essay will discuss both views and explain why I believe that climate change and pollution are more serious concerns.

On the one hand, the loss of particular species is a major environmental problem. Every plant and animal has an important role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem. When a species becomes extinct, it can affect other organisms that depend on it for food or survival. For example, the decline of bees can have a negative effect on agriculture because bees play an important role in pollinating crops. Furthermore, once a species becomes extinct, it cannot be brought back naturally. Therefore, protecting endangered animals and plants is essential for maintaining biodiversity.

On the other hand, there are environmental problems that have a much wider impact. Climate change, air pollution and water pollution can affect millions of people as well as animals and plants. In particular, global warming is causing rising temperatures, melting glaciers, extreme weather and rising sea levels. Similarly, air pollution from vehicles and factories can cause serious health problems, especially in large cities. These problems are not limited to one particular species or region and can affect the entire planet.

In my opinion, although the loss of species is a serious issue, climate change and pollution are currently more important environmental problems because their effects are much broader. Governments should therefore invest in renewable energy, reduce pollution and protect natural habitats.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views—the importance of preserving specific plant and animal species and the argument that broader issues are more critical—while also clearly stating and supporting the writer's own opinion. In the second paragraph, the writer explains the role of biodiversity and gives a relevant example regarding the decline of bees and its impact on agriculture. The third paragraph effectively explores wider environmental threats such as climate change and water pollution. Finally, the conclusion clearly synthesises these arguments and provides a well-developed personal viewpoint. Ideas are logically extended and well-supported throughout, earning a solid Band 7.0 for Task Achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct and appropriate focus. The introduction introduces the topic and outlines the essay structure, while the body paragraphs use clear transitional phrases such as 'On the one hand' and 'On the other hand' to guide the reader seamlessly between contrasting viewpoints. Cohesive devices are used flexibly and appropriately without becoming overly mechanical or intrusive. Paragraphing is handled skillfully, ensuring that each new idea or argument is presented in its own dedicated section. Overall, the coherence and cohesion match the Band 7 descriptors.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The writer uses an adequate and sufficient range of vocabulary for the task, successfully incorporating less common lexical items such as 'biodiversity', 'extinction', 'ecosystem', and 'renewable energy'. Word choice is generally appropriate, and the student demonstrates some awareness of collocation and style with phrases like 'maintaining the balance of an ecosystem' and 'wider impact'. While there are a few minor generalisations and occasional standard word choices, the vocabulary is precise enough to convey complex ideas clearly and without confusion. This performance comfortably aligns with Band 7.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The essay displays a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentence forms. The writer successfully employs conditional and subordinate clauses, such as 'When a species becomes extinct, it can affect other organisms that depend on it...' and 'In my opinion, although the loss of species is a serious issue, climate change and pollution are currently more important environmental problems because their effects are much broader.' Grammatical control is generally high, with frequent error-free sentences, correct punctuation, and accurate verb tenses. Although minor slips can occasionally be found, they do not impede communication in any way, justifying a Band 7.0 score.

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