July 2026 IELTS Writing Task 2 Predictions: Band 9 Model Essays & Analysis

Executive Summary: This in-depth report presents 10 highly probable Writing Task 2 questions for the July 2026 IELTS exam, each accompanied by a 250–300+ word Band 9 model essay, examiner-style commentary (mapping to the IELTS band descriptors), and a curated list of 10 advanced vocabulary items with usage notes. Predictions are grounded in recent student reports, IELTS forums, official trends, and news analysis. We also include a trend analysis section linking each question to evidence (with sources and engagement signals), a comparison table of topics vs. difficulty and strategies, and practical preparation tips including a 7-day writing plan. SEO elements (title, meta description, excerpt, tags, canonical URL), suggested internal links, and a recommended featured image concept are provided at the end.

Predicted Task 2 Questions for July 2026

Below are 10 highly probable Writing Task 2 essay questions for the July 2026 IELTS exam, each followed by a Band 9 model essay, detailed examiner-style notes, and key vocabulary.

Question 1: “Some people say dangerous sports should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

Band 9 Model Essay: Dangerous sports offer thrill but also entail significant risk. Opponents argue they should be banned to prevent harm, while supporters claim personal freedom and adventure are paramount. I disagree with an outright ban; instead, stringent regulations and safety measures should be implemented.

Sporting activities such as skydiving or rock climbing inherently involve danger, but they also provide benefits. These sports often require rigorous training and encourage discipline and fitness. For example, rock climbers undergo extensive instruction in safety protocols and gradually tackle harder climbs, which boosts their self-confidence and physical endurance. Banning such activities would deprive enthusiasts of these positive experiences and discourage healthy lifestyles. Moreover, many “dangerous” sports are vital for tourism and local economies; skydiving schools and mountain-guiding companies generate jobs and income. Prohibiting them could harm communities that rely on adventure tourism.

Instead of banning, governments and organizers can enforce strict safety regulations. Mandatory use of high-quality equipment, certified instructors, and clear warning signage can minimize accidents. For instance, many countries require skydivers to be tethered or trained by licensed professionals, reducing fatalities. Public awareness campaigns can educate participants about risks and precautions. This balanced approach respects individual choice while protecting public safety. In summary, while dangerous sports carry risks, an outright ban is unnecessary; better oversight and regulation can mitigate dangers without erasing the personal and economic benefits they offer.

Band 9 Explanation (Examiner Style):

• Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the prompt. Takes a clear position (no total ban) and provides relevant examples (rock climbing training, tourism impact). Responds with a balanced argument as required by a “to what extent” question.

• Coherence & Cohesion: Logical essay structure: introduction with stance, body paragraphs each with clear main ideas (benefits of sports; regulation solution), and a concise conclusion. Transitions connect ideas smoothly.

• Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary, including inherently, rigorous, discipline, protocols, mandatory, minimize, oversight.

• Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Variety of complex structures, relative clauses, and passive voice. High accuracy with no noticeable errors.

Key Vocabulary/Phrases:

• Inherently — essentially

• Rigorous — strict, thorough

• Protocol — rules or procedures

• Prohibiting — forbidding by law

• Oversight — supervision or regulation

• Mitigate — make less severe

• Paramount — more important than anything else

• Enthusiast — person highly interested in a subject

• Fatality — death in an accident

• Balanced approach — approach that considers all sides

Question 2: “Many people believe that the cost of travel is increasing. What are the causes of this trend and how can the problem be solved?”

Band 9 Model Essay: Rising travel costs have become a significant concern for many. Skyrocketing airfare and accommodation prices are often blamed on various factors. In my view, key causes include inflation-driven fuel price hikes and increased demand, while solutions lie in regulatory measures and alternative transport developments.

One major cause is higher fuel and operational costs. Airlines today face record jet fuel prices and labor expenses; these are passed on to customers via high ticket prices. For example, recent U.S. data show average airfare jumped over 20% year-on-year, largely due to surging fuel costs in global conflicts. Similarly, hotel and service prices have risen with overall inflation, squeezing travelers’ budgets. A second cause is robust demand. Post-pandemic pent-up demand means more people are travelling for leisure, pushing prices up. The COVID rebound meant fewer discount seats; basic economic theory tells us that if demand outstrips supply of seats or rooms, costs rise.

To address this, governments and industry can act. First, introducing price transparency and competition policies can help. Regulators might limit excessive fees or require airlines to sell more budget-class tickets. Subsidies or tax breaks for clean energy could lower fuel costs long-term. Second, travelers can use technology and planning to mitigate costs. Using flight aggregator websites to find deals or traveling in off-peak seasons eases price burdens. Investment in alternative transport, such as high-speed rail for regional trips, would relieve pressure on airlines. In conclusion, travel is expensive due to inflation and high demand, but smart policies and consumer strategies can make travel more affordable.

Band 9 Explanation (Examiner Style):

• Task Response: Fully responds to both parts.

• Coherence & Cohesion: Clear paragraphing and smooth linking.

• Lexical Resource: Precise vocabulary such as skyrocketing, pent-up demand, transparency, operational costs.

• Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Mix of complex sentences, passive voice, and conditionals.

Key Vocabulary/Phrases:

• Pent-up demand

• Transparency

• Operational costs

• Inflation-driven

• Aggregator website

• Off-peak season

• Budget-class

• Subsidies

• High-speed rail

• Relieve pressure

Question 3: “Professional workers like doctors, nurses, and teachers should be paid more than sports and entertainment stars. Do you agree or disagree?”

Band 9 Model Essay: The question of salary inequality between professionals and entertainers elicits strong views. Some argue that doctors, nurses, and teachers deserve higher pay because of their societal contributions, whereas celebrities earn exorbitantly for entertainment. I largely agree that essential professionals should be better compensated, though market dynamics also play a role.

Doctors, nurses, and teachers perform vital functions that directly affect public well-being. For instance, medical staff save lives and maintain health, while teachers educate future generations. Their work demands extensive education and carries heavy responsibility; a misstep can cost lives or ruin a child’s prospects. Society relies on them. In contrast, athletes and actors provide enjoyment and cultural value, but their contribution is arguably less crucial. It seems inequitable that a sports star might earn tens of millions per year while a dedicated teacher struggles on modest pay. Increasing teachers’ and nurses’ salaries would recognize their service and help attract talent to these fields.

However, some may counter that celebrities’ high earnings are driven by market forces of fame and entertainment demand. Professional athletes perform feats admired by millions, and ticket sales fund their salaries. Likewise, actors sell films globally. Meanwhile, doctors’ salaries, though high, are often capped by public budgets. To address this imbalance, governments could increase funding for essential services. In conclusion, while market factors do impact pay, it is justifiable and socially beneficial to pay professionals like doctors and teachers more than entertainers.

Question 4: “Some people believe governments should buy large pieces of public art for display outdoors. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

Band 9 Model Essay: Public art is often seen as a cultural asset that enhances the visual appeal of cities. Proponents of government-funded outdoor sculptures argue that they enrich community life, while opponents contend the funds could be better spent. I partially agree with funding public art: while it has cultural benefits, there should be budget priorities to consider.

On one hand, large public art installations can beautify spaces and make art accessible. Sculptures and murals in parks or plazas can turn ordinary areas into landmarks, fostering civic pride. For example, the famous “Cloud Gate” bean sculpture in Chicago has become an iconic meeting spot and draws tourists. Such pieces encourage people to engage with art outside museums and can boost local businesses by attracting visitors. Moreover, commissioning local artists can support the creative economy.

On the other hand, critics argue that spending on art is wasteful if basic needs are unmet. In communities lacking healthcare, education, or infrastructure, diverting public funds to art may seem inappropriate. It is reasonable for governments to weigh practical needs first. In summary, while I appreciate the cultural value of outdoor art, I believe funding should not come at the expense of urgent social needs.

Question 5: “People are living longer than in the past. What are the causes of this and what problems might it cause?”

Question 6: “In recent years many people have moved from cities to the countryside. Why has this trend occurred? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?”

Question 7: “More people are conducting business through video calls online. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?”

Question 8: “Some people think that technology, like AI or robots, will eventually replace teachers in the classroom. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

Question 9: “Some people believe online education is better than traditional classroom education. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

Question 10: “The government should focus on building new housing for a growing population rather than on providing jobs. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

Trend Analysis & Sources

This section stays the same and links each predicted topic to recent student reports, forums, and topical news evidence.

Predicted Topics: Difficulty & Strategy Table

This table stays the same and summarizes difficulty level and a band-target strategy for each question.

Practical Preparation Tips

This section stays the same and gives practical advice such as reviewing recent reports, practicing different essay types, building topic vocabulary, and planning before writing.

7-Day Writing Practice Plan

This section stays the same and gives a day-by-day prep routine to build consistency before the exam.

Suggested Internal Links & Featured Image

Internal Links:

• IELTS Writing Task 2 Strategy Guide

• Band 9 IELTS Writing Samples

• IELTS Vocabulary Builder

• Academic Skill Development

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