Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-09-07

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 7.5)

It has been debated that in light of the technological advancements, preference might be given to watching movies on devices such as phones and tablets. Others argue that cinema remains a core irreplaceable experience. This essay will first highlight how mobiles offer convenience due to financial ease. Later, it will discuss the immersive experience offered at cinemas. While this essay acknowledges the former perspective, it is of firm belief that watching a film in cinema cannot be replaced.

On one hand, there is a growing trend among the youth to watch movies at home on phone screens due to the economic feasibility of it. Not only are they saving the costs of ticket, but also reducing the expenses spent on food and drinks. A direct consequence of this is the increasing preference for opting for cheaper alternatives, including phones and tablets. This can be perhaps best illustrated by the current market statistics, with an average film ticket costing around $25.00, while a full year Netflix subscription is of $15.99, making it a financially viable option.

On the other hand, others uphold the significance of physically being present in the cinema to fully enjoy the film. This stems from the understanding that a movie is not just a casual viewing; it is an artistic experience which requires a place that could cater to its sensitive needs, such as special sounds and lights. Only then could a film be properly appreciated. For example, I remember seeing "Alice in Wonderland" in the cinema with special 3D glasses, and finding it an extraordinary production. However, when I re-watched it at home on a laptop, it felt very monotonous and bland!

In conclusion, while some people might find it convenient to view films with devices, it is without a doubt that this cannot be superior to watching them in a cinema. Not only do cinemas give an authentic experience by utilizing proper systems for lights and sound, but also make movies a lot more enjoyable from the immersive depths provided by its atmosphere. Hence, only in a cinema can a movie be completely appreciated.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. The ideas are well-developed, particularly the economic argument for home viewing and the sensory argument for the cinema experience. The position is consistent throughout the essay. The introduction clearly outlines the structure, and the conclusion reinforces the writer's stance effectively. The supporting examples, such as the comparison between Netflix and cinema ticket prices and the personal anecdote about 'Alice in Wonderland', are relevant and help to extend the arguments logically. The response is balanced 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 the two viewpoints is smooth, using appropriate cohesive devices like 'On one hand' and 'On the other hand'. Referencing is generally clear, and the use of linking words such as 'consequently', 'however', and 'hence' helps to guide the reader through the argument. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the different stages of the discussion. The flow is natural, and the relationship between ideas is easy to follow throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The vocabulary is sufficient and generally precise, allowing for a clear expression of ideas. The writer uses some less common items such as 'economic feasibility', 'monotonous', and 'immersive depths', which demonstrate a good range. There are occasional minor inaccuracies in collocation or word choice, such as 'It has been debated that in light of the technological advancements' (which is slightly awkward) and 'the expenses spent on food' (where 'incurred' or 'costs' would be more natural). However, these do not impede communication, and the overall lexical control is strong enough to convey complex ideas effectively.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a good range of complex structures, including conditional sentences and relative clauses. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over punctuation is generally good. There are occasional minor slips, such as 'a full year Netflix subscription is of $15.99' (should be 'is $15.99') and 'it is of firm belief' (which is slightly non-standard phrasing). Despite these occasional inaccuracies, the grammatical control is strong, and the errors do not interfere with the reader's understanding. The variety of sentence structures used contributes to a fluent and professional tone.

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