Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-09-30

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 8.0)

In today’s interconnected world, the question of whether information should be freely shared or carefully restricted has become increasingly important. Some argue that openness in scientific research, business, and academia fosters progress, while others believe that certain information is too sensitive or valuable to be released without control.

On one hand, sharing information widely can accelerate innovation and collective learning. In scientific research, for example, open access to data allows scholars across the globe to build upon each other’s findings, reducing duplication and speeding up discoveries. Similarly, in the academic world, free exchange of knowledge ensures that education is not limited to a privileged few, but benefits society as a whole. In business, transparency can enhance trust among stakeholders and encourage collaboration, particularly in industries where joint ventures and partnerships are common.

On the other hand, unrestricted sharing may pose risks. In business, proprietary information such as trade secrets or product designs is crucial for maintaining competitiveness. If such data were freely available, companies could lose their advantage and innovation might be discouraged. In scientific research, certain findings such as those related to biotechnology or artificial intelligence could be misused if placed in the wrong hands, leading to ethical or security concerns. Academic institutions also rely on intellectual property rights to sustain funding and protect the originality of their work.

In my view, a balanced approach is necessary. Information that contributes to public welfare, such as medical research or environmental studies, should be shared openly. However, sensitive data that could compromise security or commercial viability must be safeguarded. Striking this balance ensures both progress and protection.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the view that information should be shared freely and the view that some information should be restricted, while also providing a clear personal opinion in the conclusion. The ideas are well developed with relevant examples across scientific research, business, and academia. For instance, the student notes that open access to data in scientific research 'allows scholars across the globe to build upon each other’s findings,' and similarly points out business risks such as losing a competitive advantage if proprietary information is released. The position is maintained consistently throughout the essay, demonstrating a high level of task response that aligns well with the requirements for a Band 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized and easy to follow, displaying a clear progression of ideas from the introduction through the body paragraphs to the conclusion. Paragraphing is used effectively and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct theme: the introduction, the benefits of sharing, the risks of restriction, and the personal conclusion. Cohesive devices are managed well without being mechanical, using transitional phrases such as 'On one hand,' 'Similarly,' and 'On the other hand' to guide the reader smoothly between arguments. Referencing is consistently clear throughout the text. Overall, the organizational structure meets the criteria for a strong Band 8.0.

Lexical Resource: Band 8.0

The student demonstrates a wide, flexible vocabulary suitable for an academic context, making skillful use of less common items such as 'interconnected world,' 'fosters progress,' 'proprietary information,' 'commercial viability,' and 'safeguarded.' Word choices and collocations are generally accurate and natural, contributing to precise communication. There are very few lexical inaccuracies; terms are used correctly to articulate nuanced concepts across business, science, and academia. This lexical control and variety firmly place the response in the Band 8.0 range.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 8.0

The response exhibits a wide range of complex grammatical structures used with a high degree of accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free, and complex constructions—such as conditional or participial clauses integrated into sentences like 'If such data were freely available, companies could lose their advantage'—are handled with solid control. Punctuation is accurate, and syntactic control is maintained throughout. Although there might be a very occasional minor slip, communication is never impeded. The grammatical flexibility and overall precision warrant a Band 8.0 score.

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