Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-16

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Write about the following topic: Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business and the academic world. Others believe that some information is too important or too valuable to be shared freely. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 5.5)

Communication is one the significant ways to share information among researchers, academicians and business entities globally.

The majority of individuals believe that sharing information to the public is one way of promoting ones brand. It is acceptable that indeed, what you don't know has no impact in the decisions you make. Scientific researchers obtains consent from the subjects before conducting the study and this requires giving subjects the information needed prior to consent to the study and that makes information sharing vital.

Business entities value information sharing as it is one way of sharing ideas to boost trade and make the economic world sustainable. For instance, a business introducing new brand needs to give out information to customers so as to create awareness.

Additionally, academic world is dynamic, new ideas, policies and procedures are regularly updated creating awareness through information sharing is vital.

Nevertheless, It is believed that other people may not totally agree with this idea. They believe that not each and every information has to be shared. Some information is too cardinal to be published as it may inhibit the outcome.

In the business world, especially when dealing with the competitor, some information is must be with held to protect the dignity of the business. Giving all valuable information may sell out your business and put the company at loss.

Regarding academic world, not all information must be shared, take for instance in an academic class, a lecturer may not give out all information freely and hence expects students to do more research and find out about certain information on a particular subject.

In conclusion, information is very vital in all sectors as it enhances clear communication and understanding. The information that is deemed to be valuable must be withheld to protect the image of a particular sector.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response addresses both sides of the argument and provides a personal opinion, fulfilling the requirements of the prompt. However, the development of ideas is somewhat superficial. For example, the argument regarding academic research is limited to a lecturer withholding information from students, which does not fully capture the complexity of intellectual property or scientific transparency. The position is clear, but the supporting points lack depth and specific, real-world examples that would elevate the response. To improve, you should expand on the 'why' and 'how' behind your arguments, ensuring that each point is fully explored rather than just stated.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The essay is organized into logical paragraphs, with a clear introduction, body paragraphs for each view, and a conclusion. Cohesive devices are used, such as 'Additionally,' 'Nevertheless,' and 'In conclusion,' which help guide the reader. However, some transitions feel mechanical, and the flow between sentences could be smoother. For instance, the transition between the general importance of information and the specific example of a lecturer is abrupt. Improving the variety of linking words and ensuring that each paragraph has a clear topic sentence would enhance the overall coherence of your writing.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'academicians,' 'sustainable,' and 'intellectual property' (implied). However, there are some inaccuracies in word choice and collocation. For example, 'too cardinal' is an unnatural way to describe information; 'crucial' or 'sensitive' would be more appropriate. Additionally, phrases like 'sell out your business' are slightly informal for an academic essay. To reach a higher band, focus on using more precise academic collocations and avoid repetitive phrasing, such as the frequent use of 'information sharing.'

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. While the meaning is generally clear, there are several grammatical errors that occur throughout the text. Examples include subject-verb agreement issues ('Scientific researchers obtains,' 'some information is must be with held') and missing articles ('in academic class'). Punctuation is generally functional, but there are minor errors with comma usage. To improve, focus on proofreading for basic subject-verb agreement and article usage, and try to incorporate more varied complex sentence structures to demonstrate greater control over your grammar.

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