Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-16

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)

It is often argued that the disappearance of particular species of plants and animals is the most serious environmental issue facing the world today. However, others believe that there are more pressing environmental concerns. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe that environmental problems are closely interconnected, with climate change and pollution being particularly significant.

On the one hand, the loss of plant and animal species is a major environmental concern. Every species plays a role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem, and the disappearance of one species can affect many others. For example, the decline of bees and other pollinators can negatively affect the reproduction of plants and, consequently, food production. In addition, once a species becomes extinct, it cannot be restored naturally. Human activities such as deforestation, illegal hunting and the destruction of natural habitats have accelerated biodiversity loss in many parts of the world. Therefore, protecting endangered species is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems.

On the other hand, there are several environmental problems that can have an even wider impact. Climate change, for instance, affects ecosystems, agriculture, water supplies and human settlements across the globe. Rising temperatures can lead to more frequent heatwaves, droughts and extreme weather events, while melting glaciers can contribute to rising sea levels. Pollution is another serious problem. Air and water pollution can harm humans, animals and plants, and plastic waste can remain in the environment for many years. These issues are not limited to particular regions and can therefore affect very large populations.

In my opinion, the loss of species is extremely important, but it should not be considered separately from broader environmental problems. Climate change, habitat destruction and pollution often contribute directly to biodiversity loss. For this reason, governments and individuals should address these problems together by reducing pollution, protecting natural habitats and promoting sustainable forms of energy and agriculture.

In conclusion, although the extinction of plants and animals is a serious environmental issue, climate change and pollution also pose substantial threats to the planet. A comprehensive approach that tackles these interconnected problems is necessary to protect both biodiversity and the environment as a whole.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views—that the loss of species is the main environmental problem, and that other concerns are more important—while clearly stating a well-developed personal opinion. The introduction outlines the essay structure effectively. Body paragraph one provides strong arguments and specific examples regarding biodiversity loss, such as 'the decline of bees and other pollinators' affecting food production. Body paragraph two explores broader issues like climate change and pollution with clear supporting details. The conclusion synthesises these points nicely by arguing that these problems are interconnected. Ideas are well-supported, and the position is consistent throughout, easily meeting the Band 8 descriptor standards.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a clear logical progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with a well-formulated introduction, moving through balanced body paragraphs presenting contrasting views, an insightful synthesis in the examiner's opinion paragraph, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used naturally and effectively, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'For example', and 'For this reason'. Paragraphing is used skillfully and appropriately to separate distinct ideas and perspectives. Referencing and substitution are managed with precision, ensuring that the reader can easily follow the flow of arguments without any jarring transitions or confusion, fitting the criteria for a Band 8 performance.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The student displays a wide and flexible lexical range that allows for precise and natural expression. Less common vocabulary items and collocations are used skillfully throughout the essay, including phrases such as 'maintaining the balance of an ecosystem', 'accelerated biodiversity loss', 'extreme weather events', and 'comprehensive approach'. Word choice is generally very accurate, and there are only occasional minor lapses, demonstrating a strong command of vocabulary appropriate for an academic context. Spelling and word formation are entirely correct, supporting smooth communication and aligning well with the Band 8 descriptor.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response features a wide range of complex grammatical structures used with a high degree of flexibility and accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free, and complex forms—such as conditional or participial clauses and multi-clause sentences like 'Every species plays a role in maintaining the balance of an ecosystem, and the disappearance of one species can affect many others'—are handled with strong control. Punctuation is accurate, and control over tense, agreement, and subordination is consistently maintained throughout. Only very occasional minor slips occur, fully justifying a Band 8 rating for grammatical range and accuracy.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.