Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-24

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In many countries, people are now living longer than ever before. Some people say an aging population creates problems for governments. Other people think there are benefits if society has more elderly people.

To what extent do the advantages of having an aging population outweigh the disadvantages?

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

Student answer (Band 7.5)

It is often argued that increasing life expectancy has become a burden on governments. However, others believe that a larger elderly population benefits society. I believe that the advantages of an ageing population far outweigh its disadvantages.

One major benefit is that older people can strengthen family bonds and provide emotional support to younger generations. The presence of three generations in one household can foster closer relationships, allowing family members to support and learn from one another. Elderly people can also assist with childcare, which is particularly valuable for working couples with demanding schedules. For example, grandparents may look after young children while their parents are at work, enabling them to maintain their careers without compromising childcare. Furthermore, close interaction with grandparents can help children understand their family's traditions and cultural values. Thus, older people can act as a bridge between generations by passing their experiences and customs to younger family members.

Admittedly, an ageing population can place considerable pressure on governments and families. Governments may need to spend more on healthcare, pensions and social care as people live longer. Families may also experience financial and emotional pressure when elderly relatives require long-term treatment or assistance. For instance, an elderly person suffering from an age-related illness may need regular medical treatment and full-time care, forcing the government and family members to devote substantial resources to their wellbeing. This can be particularly challenging in countries where the working-age population is relatively small compared with the number of retirees. Nevertheless, these challenges do not outweigh the valuable contributions of older people.

In conclusion, although an ageing population can increase healthcare costs and family responsibilities, its benefits are considerably greater. Older people strengthen families, provide support and preserve cultural values.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly stated your position in the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. The arguments regarding the social benefits of an ageing population, such as family support and cultural transmission, are well-developed and supported with relevant examples. The counter-argument regarding economic and healthcare pressures is also acknowledged and balanced effectively. The conclusion provides a clear summary that reinforces your initial stance. The ideas are relevant and logically extended, meeting the requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the benefits and the challenges is smooth, using appropriate linking words like 'Admittedly' and 'Nevertheless'. Cohesive devices such as 'Furthermore', 'For instance', and 'Thus' are used effectively to connect sentences and ideas. The paragraphing is logical and contributes to the overall clarity of the argument. The flow of information is natural, and the reader can easily follow your line of reasoning from start to finish.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic essay. Phrases such as 'increasing life expectancy', 'foster closer relationships', 'demanding schedules', and 'substantial resources' show a level of precision and sophistication. There is a consistent use of topic-specific vocabulary related to the prompt. While the vocabulary is accurate and fits the context well, incorporating a few more idiomatic or less common collocations could elevate the response further. However, the current range is sufficient to convey your ideas clearly and effectively throughout the text.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as the use of conditional-like structures and subordinate clauses (e.g., '...where the working-age population is relatively small compared with the number of retirees'). The grammar is generally accurate, with very few errors. Punctuation is used correctly to support the structure of your sentences. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the control over complex forms is consistent. The writing is clear and professional, showing a high level of grammatical competence that does not impede communication.

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