Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-10

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 all parts of the prompt. You have taken a clear position from the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, with the first body paragraph focusing on the negative impacts on urban areas (infrastructure, housing, and social services) and the second focusing on the decline of rural economies. You provide relevant examples, such as the mention of informal settlements and the suggestion of agricultural technology, which effectively support your arguments. The response is balanced, logical, and directly answers the question posed, meeting all requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the urban focus and the rural focus is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Consequently,' 'Equally concerning,' and 'In contrast,' which help guide the reader through your argument. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct points. The flow of information is natural, and the relationship between sentences is consistently clear, demonstrating a high level of control over the structure of the essay.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary. Phrases such as 'steady migration,' 'demographic trend,' 'economic and social vitality,' and 'gradual erosion' are used accurately and naturally. You show a good awareness of collocation and style, avoiding repetitive or simplistic language. There are no noticeable errors in word choice, and the vocabulary used is precise enough to convey complex ideas effectively. The language is consistently appropriate for an academic context, showing a high level of lexical flexibility.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses and varied sentence beginnings. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense is excellent. You use modal verbs and conditional structures effectively to express opinions and hypothetical scenarios. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a high degree of accuracy, consistent with the requirements for a high band score.

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