⚡ TL;DR
A detailed guide to this IELTS Writing Task 2 essay type, with structure templates, useful vocabulary, and techniques to achieve Band 7+.
Originally published October 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, you will be able to view an essay example from a past student, with the corrections and feedback highlighted in red.
Most of the students studying for the IELTS Test have said they find the IELTS Writing Tasks difficult. I have corrected hundreds of task 1 and 2 essays on various topics, giving estimated band scores and detailed feedback. There are also suggestions on how to improve for a higher band score. Take a look at this student essay example and see how it compares to your own writing.
Writing Task 2 Question
“Climate change has become one of the most pressing issues that face humanity. What are the causes of climate change and what effects are expected to arise if it remains unchecked?”
Here is the task 2 essay with corrections, suggestions, feedback and an estimated band score:
Understanding Band 7 Writing Criteria
A Band 7 essay demonstrates good control of all four IELTS Writing assessment criteria. Understanding where this essay succeeds — and where it falls short of Band 8 — helps you calibrate your own writing goals.
Task Response (Band 7)
The essay addresses all parts of the task, presents a clear position, and develops main ideas with relevant supporting points. To reach Band 8, every idea would need fuller development with more specific examples.
Coherence and Cohesion (Band 7)
Ideas are logically organised with clear progression. Cohesive devices are used flexibly, though there may be occasional lapses. Paragraphing is clear and appropriate.
Lexical Resource (Band 7)
The writer uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some awareness of style and collocation. Occasional errors in word choice or spelling do not impede communication.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 7)
A variety of complex sentence structures is used with good control. Grammar errors are few and do not reduce communication. Most sentences are error-free.
How to Move from Band 7 to Band 8
- Develop ideas more fully: Each main point should include a specific example, evidence, or extended explanation.
- Use less common vocabulary naturally: Demonstrate precision in word choice rather than using advanced words incorrectly.
- Vary sentence structures: Mix complex, compound, and simple sentences purposefully for rhetorical effect.
- Eliminate minor errors: Band 8 requires only “very occasional” errors in grammar and spelling.
Originally published on IELTS Achieve. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.