Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-26

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In many places, new homes are needed, but the only space available for building them is in the countryside. Some people believe it is more important to protect the countryside and not build new homes there.

What is your opinion about this?

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

 

Student answer (Band 7.5)

In many regions, the need for new homes is evident, but the available space for construction is predominantly located in the countryside. While some individuals may argue that building new homes in rural areas is essential for meeting the growing housing demands, I firmly believe that it is of utmost importance to preserve the countryside and refrain from encroaching upon its natural beauty and ecological integrity.

First and foremost, the countryside serves as a vital haven for biodiversity and ecosystems. It harbours diverse plant and animal species, many of which may be endangered or on the brink of extinction. Constructing new homes in these areas would lead to habitat destruction, fragmentation, and disturbance, jeopardizing the delicate balance of these ecosystems. Preserving the countryside not only ensures the survival of countless species but also supports ecosystem services such as water purification, pollination, and carbon sequestration. For example, the fragmentation caused by urban development would disrupt migration patterns and limit the gene flow between populations, further endangering the delicate biodiversity of the area. Home & Garden

Moreover, the countryside holds immense cultural and historical significance. It is often intertwined with the local heritage, traditions, and folklore of a region. The landscapes, historic sites, and traditional architecture found in rural areas contribute to the cultural identity of communities. By protecting the countryside, we preserve a tangible connection to our past and provide future generations with an opportunity to appreciate and learn from their cultural heritage. For instance, the rolling hills and ancient stone walls of the countryside in England are not only visually stunning but also symbolise the country's rich agricultural history and rural traditions. Preserving these landscapes allows visitors and locals alike to experience the charm and character of the region while gaining a deeper understanding of its cultural heritage.

In conclusion, while the need for new homes is undeniable, I firmly believe that preserving the countryside should take precedence over construction in these areas. The countryside plays a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, preserving cultural heritage, and offering recreational opportunities. It is our responsibility to protect these precious landscapes and ensure that future generations can enjoy and benefit from their inherent value. Ecology & Environment

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

You have fully addressed the prompt by taking a clear position and supporting it with well-developed arguments. Your introduction clearly states your stance, and each body paragraph focuses on a distinct, relevant point—biodiversity and cultural heritage—which are extended with logical explanations and specific examples. The response is balanced and maintains a consistent focus on the topic throughout. To reach a band 9, you could briefly acknowledge the counter-argument (the need for housing) in more detail to demonstrate a more nuanced evaluation of the trade-offs involved, but your current development is highly effective and meets the criteria for a strong performance.

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 paragraphs is smooth, aided by effective cohesive devices such as 'First and foremost', 'Moreover', and 'In conclusion'. You use referencing well, and the logical flow from the problem to the specific environmental and cultural impacts is easy to follow. The paragraphing is appropriate and contributes to the overall clarity of your argument. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive usage, and the structure supports the reader's understanding perfectly.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary, which is used with precision and natural control. Phrases such as 'ecological integrity', 'carbon sequestration', 'tangible connection', and 'intertwined with the local heritage' show a high level of lexical flexibility. You successfully use less common items to convey complex ideas without any noticeable errors in collocation or word choice. The vocabulary is consistently appropriate for an academic or formal discussion, and your ability to use topic-specific terminology enhances the quality of your arguments significantly.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

Your writing displays a wide range of complex sentence structures, including conditional clauses and participial phrases, which are used with high accuracy. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and grammar is excellent. There are no significant errors that impede communication or distract the reader. You demonstrate a strong command of complex structures, such as 'By protecting the countryside, we preserve...', which are integrated naturally into your writing. The overall grammatical control is consistent and reflects a high level of proficiency.

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