Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-27

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 7.0)

It is true that in many countries, a large number of people are moving from rural areas to cities. As a result, the population of the countryside is decreasing in some places. In my opinion, this is mainly because cities provide better employment, education and living opportunities, although this trend can create problems for rural communities.

One of the main reasons why people leave rural areas is the lack of employment opportunities. In villages, most people traditionally depend on agriculture and small businesses, which may not provide a stable or high income. In contrast, cities usually offer a wider range of jobs in industries, offices, shops and other sectors. In addition, cities often have better educational institutions and healthcare facilities. Therefore, young people in particular may move to urban areas to build better careers and improve their standard of living.

However, the decreasing rural population can have several negative effects. If a large number of young people leave villages, the countryside may be left with mainly older people. This can reduce the agricultural workforce and make it more difficult for rural communities to develop. Furthermore, overcrowding can become a serious problem in cities. More people can lead to traffic congestion, expensive housing, pollution and pressure on public services.

In my opinion, rural-to-urban migration is understandable because people naturally want better opportunities for themselves and their families. However, governments should also invest in rural areas by creating jobs, improving schools and hospitals, and developing better roads and internet facilities. This could encourage people to remain in the countryside while still having access to good opportunities.

In conclusion, the population of rural areas is decreasing in many countries because people are attracted by the opportunities available in cities. Although this movement can improve people's lives, governments should develop rural areas as well to maintain a better balance between urban and rural populations.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.0

The student addresses all parts of the task well, providing a clear stance on whether the migration trend is positive or negative. The position is maintained throughout the essay. In the introduction, the writer notes that the trend is mainly positive due to better opportunities in cities, while acknowledging that it creates problems for rural communities. Body paragraph 1 explores the drivers of migration, such as employment and education. Body paragraph 2 examines the negative impacts on both rural areas and cities. The conclusion neatly ties the arguments together. Ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant explanations, meeting the requirements for a Band 7.0.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.0

The essay displays clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, starting with an introductory overview, moving into reasons for migration, negative effects, government solutions, and a final conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly, such as 'In contrast', 'Furthermore', 'In addition', and 'In conclusion'. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct aspects of the prompt. Referencing is clear and easy to follow, supporting a smooth flow of ideas throughout the text. Overall, cohesion is managed very well.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision. Terms such as 'employment opportunities', 'educational institutions', 'healthcare facilities', 'agricultural workforce', and 'traffic congestion' are used appropriately. There is an awareness of collocation and style suitable for an academic task, though the vocabulary tends to be standard rather than advanced. Spelling and word choice are accurate throughout the response, and communication is never impeded. The range is adequate for a solid Band 7.0 performance.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.0

The writer produces a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, demonstrating good overall control of grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include conditional and subordinate clauses like 'If a large number of young people leave villages, the countryside may be left with mainly older people' and 'although this trend can create problems for rural communities.' There are frequent error-free sentences, and punctuation is handled correctly. Errors are minimal and do not interfere with the clarity of the message, matching the criteria for a Band 7.0.

See this exact question answered at other band scores. The same prompt compared across bands.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.