Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-09-27

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 6.5)

With the advancement of technology, a great deal of research is being conducted in different areas of society, including science, business and education. Some individuals believe that the results of such research should be shared with others, while others argue that certain information should be kept confidential. This essay will discuss both viewpoints before presenting my opinion.

To begin with, research conducted in different fields can provide valuable information about ways to expand businesses, improve educational facilities and develop scientific knowledge. Therefore, sharing the findings of research can be beneficial because other people and organisations can learn from them and apply similar techniques. For instance, a shoe manufacturing company may conduct an experiment to replace the raw materials used in its production, which could lead to an increase in sales. If this successful modification is shared with other shoe manufacturers, they may also benefit from adopting a similar approach.

In contrast, some people believe that certain information is so valuable or sensitive that it should not be shared freely. The main reason for this is the risk of losing confidentiality. If research findings are disclosed without proper restrictions, they may be misused by competitors or other individuals. For example, if an educational institution shares its successful strategy for persuading parents to enrol their children, rival institutions may adopt the same strategy and gain an advantage. Therefore, keeping some research findings confidential can help organisations protect their interests.

In my opinion, research findings should be shared when doing so can provide benefits to others, but sensitive or confidential information should be protected. Instead of revealing all the details, researchers and organisations should disclose the information that is necessary and useful to the intended users. This approach would allow people to benefit from research while reducing the risk of misuse or the leakage of confidential information.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The student addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing both viewpoints regarding the sharing of information in research, business, and academia, and clearly presents a personal opinion in the introduction and conclusion. Ideas are relevant and supported by appropriate examples, such as the shoe manufacturing company and educational institution scenarios. The position is maintained consistently throughout the essay, and the main ideas are extended well. This aligns closely with Band 7, as all parts of the task are addressed with a clear position and well-supported ideas, though further elaboration on the scientific or academic aspects could have elevated the response even higher.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving smoothly from introduction to the first viewpoint, the opposing viewpoint, and finally the balanced conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and appropriately, such as 'To begin with', 'Therefore', 'In contrast', and 'In my opinion'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and logically to separate ideas. Referencing is clear and unambiguous. The progression of thought is easy to follow, making this a solid performance that fits the Band 7 descriptor well.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow for flexibility and precision. Phrases such as 'advancement of technology', 'confidentiality', and 'rival institutions' show an awareness of appropriate academic style and collocation. There are occasional attempts at less common lexical items, and word choices are generally accurate. Spelling and word formation are completely correct throughout the text. While it lacks the truly wide and sophisticated range of Band 8, the vocabulary used is more than adequate for this task, comfortably securing a Band 7.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The writer uses a good variety of complex structures alongside simple forms, such as conditional clauses ('If this successful modification is shared...') and relative clauses. There are frequent error-free sentences, and punctuation is handled well. Grammatical control is strong, with only very minor or rare slips. The structures are handled with sufficient flexibility to ensure clear communication without any hindrance. This level of grammatical accuracy and structural variety aligns well with the criteria for Band 7.

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