Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-08-31

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Many working people get little or no exercise either during the working day or in their free time, and have health problems as a result.

Why do many working people not get enough exercise?

What can be done about this problem?

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

 

Student answer (Band 8.0)

In many countries, an increasing number of employees lead physically inactive lifestyles, both at work and during their leisure time, which can contribute to a range of health problems. This essay will discuss the main reasons for this trend and suggest several measures that could be taken to address it.

One major reason why working people fail to exercise sufficiently is the increasingly demanding nature of modern employment. Many employees work long hours and spend most of their day sitting at a desk, leaving them physically and mentally exhausted by the time they return home. As a result, they are often more inclined to relax by watching television, using social media or browsing the internet rather than engaging in physical activity. Furthermore, lengthy commutes and family responsibilities can consume much of their remaining free time. For instance, an employee who spends eight or nine hours at work and another two hours commuting may have very little energy or motivation to visit a gym after returning home. Over time, this sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease and other health problems.

Several measures could be implemented to encourage greater levels of physical activity among working adults. Employers, for example, could introduce flexible working arrangements, provide on-site fitness facilities, or encourage employees to take short exercise breaks during the day. Even a 10-minute walk during lunch or between periods of work could help employees become more active without significantly reducing their productivity. Governments also have an important role to play by developing safe cycling routes, public parks and affordable recreational facilities in residential areas. In addition, individuals should incorporate exercise into their daily routines rather than viewing it as an activity that requires a substantial amount of free time. Walking to work, cycling for short journeys or exercising at home for 20–30 minutes can all be practical alternatives to spending an hour at a gym.

In conclusion, the lack of exercise among working people is primarily caused by long working hours, sedentary occupations, commuting and competing personal responsibilities. Nevertheless, this problem can be mitigated through greater workplace flexibility, improved public facilities and a conscious effort by individuals to integrate physical activity into their everyday routines.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses both parts of the prompt. You have clearly identified the reasons for the lack of exercise, such as demanding work hours and sedentary habits, and provided practical, well-developed solutions involving both employers and governments. The ideas are extended and supported with relevant examples, such as the mention of commuting time and the suggestion of 10-minute exercise breaks. The position is clear throughout the essay, and the response is well-structured to cover all requirements of the task effectively.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay demonstrates a logical progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, and the transition between the problem and the solution is smooth. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Furthermore', 'For instance', 'Nevertheless', and 'In addition', which help to guide the reader through your arguments. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a concise conclusion. The flow of information is natural and consistent throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

You have used a wide range of vocabulary that is both precise and appropriate for the topic. Phrases such as 'physically inactive lifestyles', 'sedentary lifestyle', 'mitigated', and 'incorporate exercise into their daily routines' demonstrate a strong command of language. The word choice is natural, and there are no instances where vocabulary errors impede communication. You successfully use topic-specific terminology without forcing it, which contributes to the overall clarity and professional tone of the essay.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a high level of grammatical control. You have used a variety of complex sentence structures, such as conditional clauses and participial phrases, with a high degree of accuracy. For example, 'Even a 10-minute walk during lunch or between periods of work could help employees become more active without significantly reducing their productivity' is a well-constructed, error-free sentence. Punctuation is used correctly throughout, and the majority of your sentences are error-free, reflecting a strong grasp of English grammar.

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