Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-10-02

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In some countries owning a home rather than renting one is very important for people. Why might this be the case? Do you think this is a positive or negative situation?

Student answer (Band 7.5)

In many countries, owning a home is considered more important than renting, and it is often seen as a key marker of success and long-term stability. This preference is shaped by cultural traditions, financial beliefs, and the human desire for security and permanence in life.

On the positive side, home ownership provides a strong sense of stability and independence. People do not have to worry about rent increases, sudden eviction, or changing landlords, which helps them feel more settled and in control of their lives. It also encourages long-term planning, as families are more likely to invest in their surroundings and build stronger relationships within their community. Financially, a house is often viewed as a valuable asset that can increase in worth over time, helping individuals build wealth and security for the future. Moreover, owning a home gives many people emotional satisfaction and pride, as it represents hard work, achievement, and personal success.

However, there are also clear disadvantages to this mindset. Purchasing a property requires a very large financial commitment, often involving long-term loans that can place heavy pressure on individuals and families. This can reduce financial freedom and make it difficult to handle unexpected expenses. It also limits flexibility, as homeowners may find it harder to move for better job opportunities, education, or lifestyle changes. In some cases, social pressure to buy a house can push people into making risky financial decisions before they are truly ready.

In conclusion, while home ownership offers stability, emotional satisfaction, and financial benefits, I believe it should not be treated as more important than renting. The best choice depends on a person’s financial situation, priorities, and future plans, and both options should be seen as equally valid.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The response addresses all parts of the task thoroughly, discussing both why home ownership is important and whether this situation is positive or negative. A clear position is maintained throughout the essay. The ideas are well extended and supported, offering balanced arguments on both financial and emotional aspects. To push into higher bands, the response could explore deeper socioeconomic nuances, such as government housing policies or generational shifts in attitudes towards property, but the current level of development fully satisfies the requirements for this band.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

There is a clear logical organisation and progression throughout the essay. Information and ideas are coherently linked, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct aspect of the prompt. Cohesive devices such as 'On the positive side,' 'However,' and 'In conclusion' are used flexibly and appropriately to guide the reader. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and effectively. To achieve an even higher standard, cohesion could be made completely seamless and unobtrusive, reducing reliance on standard transitional markers in favour of more subtle referencing.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.5

The writer uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision, employing less common items such as 'marker of success,' 'long-term permanence,' and 'financial commitment' with an awareness of style and collocation. Word choices are generally natural, and there are no noticeable spelling or word-formation errors that impede communication. To reach the highest tier of lexical scoring, the student could incorporate more sophisticated, idiomatic phrasing and rare lexical chunks, but the current vocabulary successfully conveys precise meanings.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of structures, featuring a strong mix of complex sentences alongside clear, accurate simple forms. The majority of sentences are completely error-free, demonstrating excellent control of grammar, verb tenses, and punctuation. Complex clauses such as 'which helps them feel more settled' and 'as homeowners may find it harder to move' are handled with precision. Minor slips are virtually absent, placing this response at a very high standard of grammatical control where only occasional polished refinements could be made.

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