Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-09

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In recent years, many small local shops have closed because customers travel to large shopping centres or malls to do their shopping.

Is this 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 recent years, an increasing number of small local shops have been forced to close as consumers increasingly prefer shopping at large shopping centres and malls. Although shopping malls offer convenience and a wide variety of products, I believe that the decline of local businesses is a negative development because it damages local economies and reduces the sense of community.

One major disadvantage is the economic impact on local communities. Small shops often provide employment for local residents and contribute directly to the neighbourhood economy. When these businesses close, shop owners and employees may lose their livelihoods, while communities become increasingly dependent on large corporations. For example, a family-owned grocery store may employ several people from the surrounding area, whereas a large shopping centre may generate profits for companies whose headquarters are located elsewhere.

Another concern is the loss of personal service and community connections. Local shopkeepers often develop long-term relationships with their customers and may provide more personalised service than employees in large retail chains. Small shops can also contribute to the character of a neighbourhood. If independent businesses disappear and are replaced by large commercial centres, local communities may become less distinctive and less socially connected.

Admittedly, shopping malls provide several benefits. Customers can purchase a wide range of products in one location, compare prices easily and enjoy additional facilities such as restaurants and entertainment. This makes them particularly attractive to families and people with limited time. However, these conveniences do not outweigh the broader social and economic consequences of the decline of local businesses.

In conclusion, although large shopping centres offer convenience and variety, I consider the closure of small local shops to be a negative development. Supporting independent businesses is important for maintaining local employment, community connections and the unique character of neighbourhoods.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You have taken a clear position from the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, with distinct paragraphs focusing on economic impacts and social connections. You also effectively acknowledge the opposing view regarding the convenience of malls before refuting it, which demonstrates a balanced approach. The arguments are supported by relevant examples, such as the mention of family-owned grocery stores versus large corporate chains. The conclusion effectively summarises your position and reinforces the main points discussed in the body paragraphs. Overall, the response is well-structured and directly answers the prompt.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Although', 'One major disadvantage', 'Another concern', and 'In conclusion', which help guide the reader through your argument. The referencing is clear, and the paragraphing is used appropriately to separate different aspects of the topic. The flow of the essay is natural, and there is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words. The structure is highly effective for an IELTS task of this nature.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for the topic. Phrases like 'livelihoods', 'independent businesses', 'broader social and economic consequences', and 'distinctive' show a level of precision and flexibility. The vocabulary is used naturally, and there are no significant errors in word choice or collocation. While the vocabulary is accurate and fits the context well, incorporating a few more sophisticated or less common idiomatic expressions could elevate the score further. However, the current range is sufficient to convey your ideas clearly and effectively throughout the response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses (e.g., 'Although shopping malls offer convenience... I believe that...'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense usage is excellent. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. You have successfully used a mix of simple and complex forms to maintain interest and clarity. The writing is polished and demonstrates a high level of accuracy, which is consistent with a strong band 8 performance.

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