Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-23

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)

Although there is a school of thought that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals, an alternative perspective contends that other environmental problems are more important. While both arguments possess a certain degree of validity, I am firmly of the opinion that many other environmental problems are major issues. This essay will critically examine both perspectives before elucidating why I subscribe to this particular standpoint.

To commence with, there are several compelling arguments in favor of biodiversity loss being the single greatest environmental issue today. First and foremost, each species has a role in the ecosystem. This is primarily attributed to the fact that the food chain is disturbed because of this population of other species changes, which leads to imbalance in the ecosystem. A pertinent example of this can be seen in wild animals like tigers, who control overpopulation of other animals. Consequently, damage can spread beyond single species. Furthermore, another noteworthy consideration is that plants provide food, shelter, oxygen, and habitats. This is particularly significant because some quality of a specific plant cannot be easily replicated. Last but not least, some plants contain useful medicinal components. It is reasonable to suggest that humans lose potentially useful natural resources.

Nevertheless, the opposing perspective also warrants careful consideration. One of the most compelling arguments is that global temperature is increasing nowadays. The underlying reason is greenhouse gas emissions, fossil fuel, and deforestation. For instance, it reduces quality of life and has an effect on the respiratory system. Moreover, it is worth emphasizing that rivers, lakes, and oceans are contaminated because of human activity. It mainly affects aquatic life.

In conclusion, although both viewpoints are underpinned by credible arguments, I remain firmly convinced that there are many other problems that cause a lot more damage to society and wild lives.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The response successfully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views—that biodiversity loss is the main environmental problem, and that other issues are more significant—while also providing a clear personal opinion. The position is well maintained throughout the essay. The student extends and supports ideas adequately, such as mentioning the role of tigers in controlling overpopulation and the medicinal components of plants. In the third paragraph, the discussion of global warming and water contamination is also relevant, though the conclusion is slightly brief regarding the specific alternatives. Overall, the task is handled well, aligning closely with the requirements for a Band 7 performance.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from the introduction to the arguments for biodiversity loss, the counter-arguments regarding climate change and pollution, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used reasonably well, such as "To commence with", "First and foremost", and "Nevertheless". However, referencing and paragraph links occasionally feel slightly mechanical or formulaic, which prevents the response from reaching higher bands. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate different facets of the prompt. Overall, the structure is coherent and easy to follow, supporting a solid Band 7 score.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow for flexibility and precision, employing less common items such as "biodiversity loss", "ecosystem", "greenhouse gas emissions", and "contamination" with general awareness of style and collocation. There are, however, occasional minor lexical inaccuracies or awkward phrasings, such as "some quality of a specific plant cannot be easily replicated" and "wild lives" instead of "wildlife". Despite these minor slips, the vocabulary used is more than adequate for the task, meaning does not become obscured, and communication is clear throughout. This reflects the criteria for a Band 6.5 or 7.0, comfortably sitting at a Band 6.5.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.0

The response features a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including conditional or relative clauses like "Although there is a school of thought that..." and "This is primarily attributed to the fact that...". There are instances of good control, but also occasional grammatical errors and awkward phrasing, such as "because of this population of other species changes" and "it reduces quality of life" (missing article). Punctuation is generally handled well. While complex structures are attempted, they sometimes contain minor inaccuracies. As the majority of sentences are understandable and errors rarely impede communication, the response meets the criteria for Band 6.5.

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

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