Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-08-20

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people say that now we can see films on our phones or tablets there is no need to go to the cinema. Others say that to be fully enjoyed, films need to be seen in a cinema.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

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

 

Student answer (Band 8.0)

Nowadays, people can easily watch films on their phones or tablets, which has led some to believe that going to the cinema is no longer necessary. However, others argue that films are best enjoyed on a large cinema screen. This essay will discuss both views before giving my opinion.

On the one hand, watching films on phones or tablets is convenient and affordable. People can watch their favourite movies anywhere and at any time without travelling to a cinema. They can also pause the film, continue watching it later, and choose from a wide range of online platforms. In addition, watching a film at home is usually cheaper because people do not need to pay for cinema tickets, transportation or expensive snacks. For example, students and busy workers may prefer watching movies on their phones while travelling or relaxing at home.

On the other hand, cinemas provide a much better viewing experience. The large screen and powerful sound system can make viewers feel more involved in the story. Furthermore, cinemas provide a distraction-free environment, whereas people watching films on their phones may receive messages or notifications. Going to the cinema can also be a social activity, as friends and family can enjoy the experience together. For instance, watching an action or science-fiction film in a cinema can be much more exciting because of the large screen and surround sound.

In my opinion, although mobile devices are more convenient for everyday viewing, cinemas are still important for fully enjoying certain films. I believe that people should use both options depending on their situation. Short or casual films can be watched at home, while major films with impressive visual and sound effects are better experienced in a cinema.

In conclusion, phones and tablets offer convenience and flexibility, while cinemas provide a more immersive and enjoyable experience. Therefore, I do not believe that cinemas have become unnecessary, as they offer an experience that personal devices cannot completely replace.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly discussed both perspectives—the convenience of mobile viewing and the immersive experience of the cinema—and provided a clear personal opinion in the third paragraph. The ideas are well-developed, with specific examples such as 'students and busy workers' for home viewing and 'action or science-fiction film' for the cinema experience. The position is consistent throughout the essay, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes the arguments presented. The response is well-structured and meets all requirements of the task.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth, using effective linking phrases such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion'. Cohesive devices are used naturally and accurately throughout the text. The paragraphing is logical, with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs exploring the opposing views, a personal opinion paragraph, and a summary conclusion. The flow of information is easy to follow, and the relationship between ideas is clearly established.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary appropriate for the task. Phrases like 'distraction-free environment', 'immersive and enjoyable experience', and 'flexibility' show a solid command of language. While the vocabulary is accurate and fits the context well, it is generally functional rather than highly sophisticated. To reach a higher band, you could incorporate more precise collocations or less common lexical items related to the topic of media consumption. However, the current range is sufficient to convey your ideas with precision, and there are no errors in word choice that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a good variety of complex structures, such as the use of conditional-like logic ('if... then' implied) and subordinate clauses ('although mobile devices are more convenient...'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and grammar is strong. There are no significant grammatical errors that distract the reader. The sentence structures are varied, moving between simple, compound, and complex forms effectively. This level of accuracy and range is consistent with a high band score.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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