Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-27

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In many countries around the world, rural people are moving to cities, so the population in the countryside is decreasing.

Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

 

Student answer (Band 8.0)

In many parts of the world, the steady migration of rural populations to urban centres has become an increasingly prominent demographic trend. Although cities can offer greater employment prospects and access to essential services, I believe that the continued depopulation of rural areas is, on balance, a negative development because it places considerable pressure on cities while undermining the economic and social vitality of the countryside.

The most immediate concern is that rapid urbanisation can place an excessive burden on already overcrowded cities. When large numbers of people relocate in search of employment and better living standards, urban infrastructure may struggle to keep pace with population growth. Consequently, housing shortages, traffic congestion, unemployment and pressure on healthcare and educational facilities can become more acute. For instance, in several rapidly developing countries, the influx of rural workers has contributed to the expansion of informal settlements on the outskirts of major cities, where residents may have limited access to sanitation and other basic amenities. Thus, migration does not necessarily guarantee an improved quality of life.

Equally concerning is the gradual erosion of rural economies and communities. As younger and more economically active residents leave, agricultural production may decline, local businesses may become unviable, and traditional communities can gradually disappear. This can also create an imbalance in national development, particularly when a country becomes excessively dependent on a small number of metropolitan areas. In contrast, investment in rural infrastructure, education and employment could encourage people to remain in their communities while simultaneously strengthening food production and regional economies. For example, developing agricultural technology and rural-based industries could create skilled employment without requiring workers to relocate permanently.

In conclusion, while urban migration can provide individuals with access to better employment and public services, the large-scale movement of rural populations is predominantly detrimental. It can intensify pressure on urban infrastructure and, at the same time, weaken rural economies and communities. Therefore, governments should pursue more balanced regional development so that people have viable opportunities to prosper in both urban and rural areas.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses the prompt by clearly stating a position in the introduction and maintaining it throughout the essay. The argument is well-developed, with the first body paragraph focusing on the negative impacts on urban areas, such as infrastructure strain and informal settlements, and the second body paragraph addressing the decline of rural economies. The ideas are extended with relevant examples, such as the mention of agricultural technology and the expansion of informal settlements. The conclusion effectively summarises the main points and provides a forward-looking recommendation. The response is balanced, logical, and directly answers the question asked.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'The most immediate concern', 'Equally concerning', and 'In contrast'. Referencing is precise, and the paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different aspects of the argument. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words; instead, the flow of the argument is natural and easy to follow throughout the entire piece.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

The vocabulary is sophisticated and precise, demonstrating a wide range of lexical items. Phrases such as 'demographic trend', 'undermining the economic and social vitality', 'excessive burden', and 'gradual erosion' show a high level of control. The student uses collocations accurately and avoids repetitive language. There are no spelling errors, and the choice of words is consistently appropriate for an academic context. The use of less common items is skilful and contributes to the overall clarity and professional tone of the essay.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of complex grammatical structures with high accuracy. The use of conditional structures, passive voice, and varied sentence lengths is handled with ease. For example, the sentence 'As younger and more economically active residents leave, agricultural production may decline...' demonstrates a complex, error-free structure. Punctuation is used correctly throughout. The majority of sentences are error-free, and any minor slips are rare and do not impede communication in any way. The control over grammar is consistent and reflects a high level of proficiency.

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