Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-19
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 7.5)
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.
In today's world, information plays a crucial role in the development of science, business and education. While some people believe that knowledge should be shared as freely as possible to promote progress and innovation, others argue that certain information is too valuable or sensitive to be made publicly available. In my opinion, although sharing information is generally beneficial for society, some restrictions are necessary to protect sensitive data and valuable intellectual property.
On the one hand, freely sharing information can significantly contribute to scientific and academic progress. When researchers make their findings available, other scientists can build upon previous studies instead of repeating the same research. This can save both time and resources and may lead to faster discoveries. Similarly, students and academics can benefit from access to research, data and educational materials, which can improve the overall quality of education. For example, sharing medical research about a particular disease may enable scientists around the world to collaborate and develop effective treatments more quickly.
On the other hand, some information should be protected because it may be commercially valuable or potentially harmful if shared freely. Companies often spend considerable amounts of money and time developing new technologies, products and business strategies. If this information were immediately available to competitors, they could copy the ideas without making the same investment. Furthermore, certain scientific information may be sensitive and could be misused if it falls into the wrong hands. Therefore, protecting trade secrets, personal data and sensitive research is essential.
In conclusion, the free exchange of information can promote collaboration, education and scientific development. However, I believe that information involving privacy, security or valuable intellectual property should be carefully protected. Therefore, the most beneficial approach is to encourage the sharing of useful knowledge while placing appropriate restrictions on sensitive and highly valuable information.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.5 |
| Overall | 7.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5
The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly discussed both perspectives—the benefits of open information sharing and the necessity of protecting sensitive data—and provided a well-reasoned personal opinion. The ideas are extended and supported with relevant examples, such as the mention of medical research collaboration and the protection of trade secrets. The position is consistent and clearly stated in the introduction and conclusion, demonstrating a strong grasp of the task requirements.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the two opposing views is smooth. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'On the one hand', 'Similarly', and 'Furthermore', which guide the reader through your argument without being mechanical. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different viewpoints, contributing to the overall clarity of the response.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.0
You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Phrases such as 'intellectual property', 'commercially valuable', and 'promote progress and innovation' are used accurately. While the vocabulary is appropriate and natural, there is room to incorporate more sophisticated or idiomatic collocations to reach the highest band. The word choice is consistently accurate, and there are no spelling errors that impede communication.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5
The essay displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as the use of conditional clauses ('If this information were...') and concessive clauses ('Although sharing information is...'). The grammar is highly accurate, with the majority of sentences being error-free. Punctuation is used correctly throughout. The control over complex structures is consistent, and the minor slips are rare, which is characteristic of a high-level performance.
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