Band 8.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 8.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-07-24
IELTS Writing Task 2 question
In the future nobody will buy printed newspapers or books because they will be able to read everything they want online without paying. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Student answer (Band 8.5)
The rapid development of the internet and digital technology has transformed the way people access information and entertainment. Although online reading has become increasingly popular, I disagree with the view that printed newspapers and books will completely disappear because many people still value physical publications and not all online content is free.
On the one hand, digital platforms offer several advantages over printed materials. People can easily access thousands of newspapers, books, and articles through smartphones, tablets, and computers. This is not only convenient but also environmentally friendly, as it reduces paper consumption. Furthermore, many websites provide free access to news and educational resources, allowing users to obtain information instantly without visiting a bookstore or library. As internet access continues to expand, more readers are likely to prefer digital formats.
On the other hand, it is unlikely that printed books and newspapers will vanish entirely. Many readers enjoy the experience of holding a physical book, which causes less eye strain than reading on electronic devices. In addition, printed books are often considered more reliable for long-term reading and studying because they are free from distractions such as notifications or advertisements. Moreover, many best-selling books, academic publications, and premium newspapers require payment, whether they are available in print or online. Therefore, the belief that people will be able to read everything online for free is unrealistic.
In conclusion, although digital reading will continue to grow in popularity, I do not believe that printed newspapers and books will disappear completely. Physical publications will continue to exist because of readers' preferences, and much valuable online content will remain behind paid subscriptions.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 8.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 8.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 8.5 |
| Overall | 8.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.5
The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly state your position in the introduction and maintain it consistently throughout the essay. The arguments provided—such as the tactile experience of physical books, reduced eye strain, and the reality of paid digital content—are relevant and well-developed. You effectively balance the discussion by acknowledging the benefits of digital media while providing strong counter-arguments for the continued existence of print. The ideas are extended logically, and the conclusion provides a clear summary of your stance, meeting the requirements for a high band score.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the advantages of digital media and the reasons for the persistence of print is smooth. You use a range of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'On the one hand', 'Furthermore', 'In addition', and 'Moreover', which help guide the reader through your argument. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct points. The flow is natural, and the relationship between ideas is always clear, demonstrating a high level of control over the structure of the response.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.5
You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Phrases such as 'rapid development', 'physical publications', 'premium newspapers', and 'unrealistic' show an ability to use language accurately. While the vocabulary is appropriate and clear, it is functional rather than highly sophisticated. To reach the highest bands, you could incorporate more nuanced collocations or idiomatic expressions related to the media industry. However, there are no errors in word choice or spelling that impede communication, and the vocabulary used is consistently natural and well-suited to the academic context.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.5
The essay displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as the use of 'Although' clauses and relative clauses (e.g., '...which causes less eye strain than reading on electronic devices'). The grammar is highly accurate, with the majority of sentences being error-free. Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and there is a good command of verb tenses and modal verbs to express opinions and predictions. The control over complex structures is consistent, and there are no significant grammatical errors that distract the reader or affect the clarity of your arguments.
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