Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-09-02

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Plastic bags, plastic bottles and plastic packaging are bad for the environment.

What damage does plastic do to the environment?

What can be done by governments and individuals to solve this problem?

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

 

Student answer (Band 8.0)

Plastic products such as bags, bottles and packaging have become an integral part of modern life, but their widespread use has caused serious environmental problems. Plastic pollution damages ecosystems, threatens wildlife and contributes to the long-term degradation of the natural environment. However, this problem can be addressed through stronger government policies and more responsible behaviour from individuals.

One of the most serious effects of plastic pollution is the damage it causes to wildlife and marine ecosystems. Large amounts of plastic waste end up in rivers and oceans, where animals may mistake it for food or become trapped in it. This can result in injury, starvation and death. In addition, plastic takes an extremely long time to decompose, meaning that waste discarded today can remain in the environment for decades or even centuries. Plastic pollution can also break down into tiny particles known as microplastics, which can enter water, soil and food chains.

Governments can play a crucial role in tackling this issue by introducing stricter regulations on single-use plastics. For instance, they could ban or tax unnecessary plastic bags and packaging, require businesses to use recyclable materials and establish effective recycling and waste-collection systems. Governments could also impose fines on companies that dispose of plastic irresponsibly. Such measures would reduce plastic consumption while encouraging businesses to develop more sustainable alternatives.

Individuals also have an important role to play. People can reduce their dependence on disposable plastics by carrying reusable shopping bags, water bottles and food containers. They should also separate recyclable waste properly and avoid purchasing products with excessive packaging. Although these actions may appear insignificant on an individual level, widespread behavioural changes can substantially reduce the amount of plastic entering the environment.

In conclusion, plastic pollution poses a serious threat to wildlife, ecosystems and the wider environment because of its persistence and widespread use. Governments should regulate single-use plastics and improve waste-management systems, while individuals should reduce their consumption and recycle responsibly. A combination of these measures is essential for achieving a cleaner and more sustainable environment.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly identify the environmental damage caused by plastic, such as the threat to marine life and the persistence of microplastics. Furthermore, you provide distinct, actionable solutions for both governments and individuals. The position is clear from the introduction and is maintained consistently throughout the essay. Ideas are well-developed and supported with logical explanations, such as the link between plastic waste and food chain contamination. The structure is balanced, ensuring that both the problem and the solution aspects of the task receive adequate attention.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, starting with the environmental impact, followed by government actions, and then individual responsibilities. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'In addition', 'For instance', and 'Although these actions may appear'. The transition between paragraphs is smooth, and the referencing is clear throughout. The paragraphing is logical and contributes to the overall readability of the response, making the argument easy to follow from start to finish.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for the topic. Terms such as 'integral part', 'degradation', 'single-use plastics', and 'sustainable alternatives' are used accurately and naturally. The language is precise, and there are no significant errors in word choice or collocation. While the vocabulary is effective and fits the context well, incorporating a few more sophisticated or idiomatic expressions could elevate the response further. Overall, the lexical range is sufficient to convey complex ideas with clarity and precision.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a high level of grammatical control. You use a variety of complex sentence structures, including conditional and concessive clauses, such as 'Although these actions may appear insignificant...'. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is used correctly to enhance clarity. There are no noticeable grammatical slips that impede communication. The control over verb tenses and subject-verb agreement is consistent throughout the text, reflecting a strong command of English grammar.

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