The world is experiencing a dramatic increase in population. This is causing problems not only for the poor in undeveloped countries but also for industrialised and developing nations. Describe some of the problems that overpopulation causes, and suggest at least one possible solution.
Sample Response
For the past few decades, planet Earthearth has experiencedis observing a significant rise in world population which is very alarming. A substantial increaseSubstantial increase in population is also causing problems in developinggrowing countries. This essay shouldwill explain some of the problems caused by overpopulation and will recommend a few possible remedieswill recommend few possible remedies to overcome this issue.
Why this response received Band 4.5
The introduction is relevant and generally understandable, clearly signalling that the essay will address both problems and solutions. The decisive limitation is that the response stops there, leaving the task almost entirely unanswered and providing too little language or organisation to demonstrate range. Prioritise completing two developed body paragraphs—one on major consequences and one on practical remedies—followed by a concise conclusion.
IELTS Writing Criteria Scores
Task Response
The response is far below the 250-word minimum and stops after an introduction. It promises problems and solutions but does not actually develop them.
Write at least two body paragraphs: one explaining major problems of overpopulation and one giving practical solutions.
Coherence and Cohesion
There is basic sentence-to-sentence flow, but no full essay structure because the response is incomplete.
Add body paragraphs and a conclusion with clear linking between problems, effects, and solutions.
Lexical Resource
Vocabulary is generally appropriate for the topic in the short sample, but the range is too limited to assess fully.
Use topic vocabulary for housing, unemployment, healthcare pressure, food supply, and family planning.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
The short response has mostly understandable grammar with some article and collocation issues. The limited length restricts evidence of range.
Use complete complex sentences in the body paragraphs, then proofread for articles and quantifiers.
Write this task while it is fresh
Try the same task now. It helps you remember the feedback and write better next time.
IELTS Writing Task 2
The world is experiencing a dramatic increase in population. This is causing problems not only for the poor in undeveloped countries but also for industrialised and developing nations. Describe some of the problems that overpopulation causes, and suggest at least one possible solution.
Your response
Write the task yourself, then compare your choices with the annotated response.