Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-09-03

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 7.0)

The rapid development of digital technology has transformed the way people access information and entertainment. Some people believe that printed newspapers and books will eventually disappear because everything can be read online for free. I largely agree with this view, although I believe printed publications will continue to have a limited readership.

There are several reasons why online content is likely to replace most printed materials. Firstly, the internet provides instant access to an enormous amount of information without requiring people to purchase physical copies. For example, readers can access international news websites, digital libraries and e-books using a smartphone or computer. This is particularly appealing because online content can be updated immediately, whereas printed newspapers become outdated within a short period. Secondly, digital reading is generally more convenient and environmentally friendly, as people can store thousands of books and articles on a single device without using paper or physical storage space.

However, I do not believe that printed books and newspapers will disappear completely. Many people still prefer physical books because reading from paper can be more comfortable and less distracting than using electronic devices. In addition, printed books are often purchased as valuable possessions or gifts, particularly novels, academic books and special editions. Newspapers may also retain a small readership among older people who are accustomed to traditional forms of media. Therefore, although their popularity is likely to decline significantly, some demand for printed publications will remain.

In conclusion, I largely agree that most people will eventually prefer free online content to printed newspapers and books because it is more accessible, convenient and up-to-date. Nevertheless, printed publications are unlikely to vanish entirely, as some people will continue to value the experience of reading physical materials.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

You have addressed all parts of the prompt, providing a clear position that is maintained throughout the essay. Your arguments regarding the convenience and accessibility of digital media are well-supported with relevant examples, such as the ability to update news instantly. You also effectively balance your argument by acknowledging the enduring appeal of physical books. The ideas are well-developed, and the conclusion provides a clear summary of your stance. To reach a higher band, you could further extend your analysis by briefly discussing the potential socio-economic implications of a 'free' digital model, which would add more depth to your argument.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and you use cohesive devices such as 'Firstly', 'Secondly', 'However', and 'In conclusion' effectively to guide the reader. The referencing is clear, and the paragraphing is appropriate. The flow between the argument for digital media and the counter-argument for printed materials is smooth. To improve further, you could experiment with a wider variety of cohesive devices or more sophisticated linking phrases to ensure that the transition between sentences feels even more natural and less formulaic.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Phrases like 'rapid development', 'enormous amount of information', and 'traditional forms of media' are used accurately. You show an awareness of style and collocation, and there are no significant spelling or word-choice errors. To achieve a higher score, try to incorporate more 'less common' lexical items or idiomatic expressions that are appropriate for an academic context, such as 'ubiquitous', 'obsolescence', or 'tangible experience', to demonstrate a more sophisticated command of the language.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

Your writing displays a good variety of complex structures, such as the use of conditional and concessive clauses (e.g., 'although I believe...', 'whereas printed newspapers become...'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation is excellent. The grammar is accurate throughout, and there are no slips that impede communication. To move toward a band 8 or 9, ensure you are consistently using a wider range of complex grammatical structures, such as inversion or more advanced passive constructions, while maintaining the high level of accuracy you have already achieved.

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