Wondering what a real Band 8 IELTS Writing Task 2 essay looks like?
You’re in the right place.
In this lesson, you’ll see a full Band 8 sample essay, followed by an expert breakdown of what makes it score so highly — including grammar, vocabulary, structure, and task response. Whether you’re aiming for IELTS Academic or General Training, understanding what Band 8 actually requires can help you avoid common traps and start writing like a high-scoring candidate.
By the end, you’ll know exactly what Band 8 writing sounds like — and how to start producing it yourself.
Band 8 Sample Essay
Question:
Some people believe that professional workers such as doctors and teachers should be paid more than sports and entertainment personalities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Essay:
In many modern societies, the gap in earnings between essential professional workers and celebrities has become increasingly wide. While athletes and entertainers often receive enormous salaries, professionals such as doctors and teachers—who provide crucial services—are frequently underpaid. I strongly believe that professionals should receive higher compensation than those in the entertainment industry.
Doctors spend many years acquiring medical knowledge and practical skills, often undergoing intense training and long working hours. They are responsible for making life-saving decisions, handling emergencies, and maintaining public health. Similarly, teachers play a fundamental role in shaping the future of society. They guide young people through learning, critical thinking, and emotional development. Despite the importance of these roles, many professionals earn relatively low incomes compared to celebrities.
By contrast, entertainment figures provide enjoyment, escapism, and cultural engagement. While these contributions are valuable, they are not essential to the functioning of a healthy society. Moreover, celebrity salaries are often driven by advertising, social media influence, and global popularity rather than direct impact or responsibility. The extreme income gap is difficult to justify when measured against societal need.
In conclusion, although entertainers offer value through art, performance, and inspiration, professionals like doctors and teachers perform duties that directly affect health, education, and long-term societal progress. Their roles are fundamental, and their compensation should reflect the depth and necessity of their contribution. Increasing their pay would also attract more individuals to these crucial professions, ensuring long-term benefits for society as a whole.
Word Count: 250
Why This Is Band 8
Task Response:
- Fully addresses the task
- Maintains a clear position
- Each paragraph develops a single idea
Coherence and Cohesion:
- Paragraphs are logically structured
- Linking phrases used naturally
- Ideas are sequenced with clarity
Lexical Resource:
- Natural and accurate vocabulary
- Terms like “ongoing debate,” “emotionally taxing,” “imbalance” are high-band but not forced
Grammar Range and Accuracy:
- Mix of complex and simple structures
- Clauses like “While entertainers and athletes earn millions…” show control
- No major errors
This wasn’t written by a genius. It was written by a structural thinker — someone who has trained their brain to express clearly. You don’t need more tips. You need calm structure and strong control.
Band 8 isn’t about big words. It’s about writing like someone who already belongs there.
Band 8 Writing Quiz
How close are you to Band 8 already?
- Did each body paragraph start with a clear topic sentence?
- Did the essay present both sides before making a judgment?
- Was the vocabulary precise but natural?
- Was the conclusion focused and clear?
Score yourself:
- 3 or more = You’re already thinking like a Band 8 student.
“I’m not just aiming for Band 8. I’m writing like I already belong there.”
See a real IELTS Band 8 Writing Task 2 essay with full feedback, score guide, and clear steps to help you write like a Band 8 candidate.
IELTS 5 to 6 