AI-powered learning English

English guide

IELTS Writing Task 2:
Plastic Pollution — Band 7.5 Sample with Full Breakdown

Get a Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer on plastic pollution with scoring breakdown, vocabulary, and expert analysis from English AIdol.

IELTS Writing Task 2: Plastic Pollution — Band 7.5 Sample with Full Breakdown | English AIdol Blog

What this guide covers

Search answer

What this page helps you decide

Get a Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer on plastic pollution with scoring breakdown, vocabulary, and expert analysis from English AIdol.

Focus Quick answer
Includes 2026 update
Best for Practical checklist
Next step Related practice
  1. Scan the direct answer first.
  2. Check examples or score rules.
  3. Open the related practice page.

IELTS Writing Task 2: Plastic Pollution — Band 7.5 Sample with Full Breakdown

Related guides:

The Prompt

> Some people believe that the increasing use of plastic is causing serious environmental problems. Others argue that the benefits of plastic outweigh the drawbacks. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown

  • Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Presents a position but with limited development
  • Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Ideas are logically organized but with some repetition
  • Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Uses some less common vocabulary but with some errors
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Makes frequent grammatical errors

Answer:

The use of plastic is increasing and it is causing environmental problems. Some people think that plastic is bad and should be banned. However, others believe that plastic is useful and we should continue using it. I agree with the second view.

On the one hand, plastic causes pollution. It is not biodegradable and it takes many years to decompose. It also harms animals when they eat it. For example, sea turtles often mistake plastic bags for jellyfish and eat them. This can kill the turtles. Additionally, plastic waste in the ocean forms large patches that are harmful to marine life.

On the other hand, plastic has many benefits. It is cheap and durable. It is used in many products, such as packaging, bottles, and medical equipment. Without plastic, these products would be more expensive and less effective. For instance, plastic packaging helps to keep food fresh and safe. Moreover, plastic is used in medical equipment, such as syringes and IV bags, which are essential for healthcare.

In conclusion, although plastic pollution is a serious issue, the benefits of plastic outweigh the drawbacks. We should find ways to reduce plastic waste, such as recycling and using biodegradable materials, but we should not ban plastic completely.

Band 7.5 Answer

Scoring Breakdown

  • Task Response (TR): 7.5 - Presents a clear position with relevant, extended, and supported arguments
  • Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 7.5 - Uses cohesive devices effectively but with some minor lapses
  • Lexical Resource (LR): 7.5 - Uses a mix of less common and sophisticated vocabulary with some minor errors
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 7.5 - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with some errors

Answer:

The proliferation of plastic in modern society has sparked intense debate regarding its environmental impact. While some advocate for stricter regulations on plastic use due to its detrimental effects on ecosystems, others contend that its utility in various sectors outweighs these concerns. I firmly believe that the advantages of plastic are significant, but we must adopt more sustainable practices to mitigate its adverse effects.

Proponents of plastic regulation argue convincingly that its indiscriminate use has led to severe environmental degradation. Plastic waste, particularly single-use items like bags and bottles, often ends up in landfills or oceans, where it takes centuries to decompose. This waste poses a significant threat to marine life, as evidenced by the alarming number of sea creatures entangled in or ingesting plastic debris. Furthermore, microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles, have been found in various ecosystems, including soil and water, raising concerns about their potential impact on human health.

Conversely, the benefits of plastic are undeniable. Its lightweight, durable, and versatile nature makes it an ideal material for numerous applications. In the medical field, plastic is indispensable for manufacturing sterile equipment and packaging. Additionally, plastic packaging extends the shelf life of perishable goods, reducing food waste. The economic implications of banning plastic would be substantial, as many industries rely on it for cost-effective production and distribution.

To strike a balance, I propose a two-pronged approach. Firstly, governments should implement policies that promote the use of biodegradable or recyclable materials. For instance, many countries have successfully reduced plastic bag usage by imposing taxes or bans. Secondly, public awareness campaigns should be launched to educate people about the importance of recycling and the proper disposal of plastic waste. By combining these strategies, we can harness the benefits of plastic while minimizing its environmental footprint.

Band 8.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown

  • Task Response (TR): 8.0 - Presents a clear position with fully extended and supported arguments
  • Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Uses cohesive devices effectively with only minor lapses
  • Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Uses a wide range of sophisticated vocabulary with only minor errors
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Uses a wide range of complex sentence forms with only minor errors

Answer:

The ubiquitous presence of plastic in contemporary society has ignited a contentious debate regarding its ecological implications. While some campaign for stringent measures to curb plastic usage due to its deleterious effects on the environment, others assert that its advantages in various domains are too substantial to ignore. I contend that, although plastic offers numerous benefits, its environmental impact necessitates immediate and concerted action.

Those advocating for plastic regulation present compelling arguments. The indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste has led to catastrophic consequences for ecosystems worldwide. The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a vast accumulation of plastic debris in the Pacific Ocean, is a stark testament to this issue. Moreover, the ingestion of plastic by marine animals has resulted in the contamination of the food chain, posing potential health risks to humans. On land, plastic waste clutters landscapes, taking centuries to decompose, and releasing harmful chemicals into the soil and water.

However, the utility of plastic cannot be overlooked. Its malleability, durability, and cost-effectiveness have made it an indispensable material in various sectors. In healthcare, plastic is used for sterile equipment and life-saving devices. In agriculture, plastic mulch conserves water and enhances crop yields. The economic implications of a plastic ban would be profound, as many industries rely on it for efficient and affordable production.

To address this complex issue, a multifaceted approach is required. Governments should incentivize the development and use of biodegradable alternatives to plastic. For instance, the European Union's Single-Use Plastics Directive aims to reduce plastic waste by promoting reusable and recyclable products. Additionally, investment in waste management infrastructure, such as advanced recycling facilities, can help mitigate the environmental impact of plastic. Public education campaigns should also be prioritized to foster a culture of responsible plastic consumption and disposal.

In conclusion, while the benefits of plastic are undeniable, its environmental impact demands urgent attention. By implementing comprehensive policies and fostering global cooperation, we can harness the advantages of plastic while safeguarding our planet for future generations.

Vocabulary Highlights

  1. Proliferation (noun) - rapid increase in the number or amount of something
  • Example: The proliferation of plastic waste has become a global crisis.
  1. Detrimental (adjective) - causing harm or damage
  • Example: The detrimental effects of plastic pollution on marine life are well-documented.
  1. Indiscriminate (adjective) - done without careful judgment or choice
  • Example: The indiscriminate use of plastic bags has led to environmental degradation.
  1. Biodegradable (adjective) - capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms
  • Example: Biodegradable plastics offer a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.
  1. Ubiquitous (adjective) - present, appearing, or found everywhere
  • Example: Plastic has become ubiquitous in modern society.
  1. Malleability (noun) - the ability to be shaped or formed
  • Example: The malleability of plastic makes it suitable for various applications.
  1. Contamination (noun) - the presence of a substance that makes something impure or unsuitable for use
  • Example: The contamination of the food chain by microplastics is a growing concern.
  1. Incentivize (verb) - to encourage someone to do something by offering an incentive
  • Example: Governments should incentivize the development of biodegradable materials.
  1. Multifaceted (adjective) - having many different aspects or features
  • Example: A multifaceted approach is needed to address the complex issue of plastic pollution.
  1. Malleability (noun) - the ability to be shaped or formed
  • Example: The malleability of plastic makes it suitable for various applications.
  1. Contamination (noun) - the presence of a substance that makes something impure or unsuitable for use
  • Example: The contamination of the food chain by microplastics is a growing concern.
  1. Incentivize (verb) - to encourage someone to do something by offering an incentive
  • Example: Governments should incentivize the development of biodegradable materials.
  1. Multifaceted (adjective) - having many different aspects or features
  • Example: A multifaceted approach is needed to address the complex issue of plastic pollution.
  1. Decomposition (noun) - the process of rotting or decaying
  • Example: Plastic takes centuries to decompose, contributing to environmental pollution.
  1. Versatility (noun) - the ability to adapt to many different functions or activities
  • Example: The versatility of plastic makes it a valuable material in various industries.
  1. Indispensable (adjective) - absolutely necessary
  • Example: Plastic is indispensable in the medical field for manufacturing sterile equipment.
  1. Concerted (adjective) - jointly arranged or carried out; coordinated
  • Example: Immediate and concerted action is needed to address the environmental impact of plastic.
  1. Sterile (adjective) - free from bacteria and other living microorganisms
  • Example: Plastic is used for sterile equipment in the medical field.
  1. Perishable (adjective) - likely to decay or go bad quickly
  • Example: Plastic packaging extends the shelf life of perishable goods.
  1. Controversial (adjective) - giving rise or likely to give rise to controversy or public disagreement
  • Example: The use of plastic is a controversial topic due to its environmental impact.

Common Mistakes

  1. Overgeneralizing - Making broad statements without sufficient evidence or examples.
  2. Repetition - Repeating the same ideas or vocabulary without varying sentence structure or word choice.
  3. Incorrect Tense Usage - Using the wrong verb tenses, which can confuse the reader and affect the coherence of the essay.
  4. Poor Paragraph Structure - Failing to organize ideas into clear paragraphs, which can make the essay difficult to follow.
  5. Spelling and Grammar Errors - Making frequent spelling and grammar mistakes, which can detract from the overall quality of the essay.

Get Your Own Response Scored by AI on English AIdol

Practice makes perfect. Get your own IELTS Writing Task 2 response scored by AI on English AIdol and receive detailed feedback to help you improve your score.