Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-27

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

At the present time, the population of some countries includes a relatively large number of young adults, compared with the number of older people.

Do the advantages of this situation outweigh the disadvantages?

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

Student answer (Band 5.5)

Nowadays, some countries have a large number of young adults compared with older people. In my opinion, I believe that this situation has more advantages than disadvantages.

One important advantage is that young people can help the economy grow. Most young adults are able to work, so they can find jobs, earn money and pay taxes. They can also start new businesses and create jobs for other people. For example, a country with a large young population may have more workers in factories, companies and different services. This can help the country develop faster.

Another benefit is that young people are usually more open to new technology and new ideas. They can learn new skills more easily and use modern technology in their jobs. This can improve productivity and help businesses become more successful.

However, having a large young population can also cause some problems. One major disadvantage is that the government needs to provide enough jobs, schools and universities for these people. If there are not enough jobs, unemployment can increase. In addition, a large population of young adults may put pressure on public services and housing.

In conclusion, although a large young population can create problems such as unemployment and pressure on public services, I believe that the advantages are greater because young people can support economic growth and bring new ideas to society.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0

The response addresses the prompt by discussing both advantages and disadvantages, and a clear position is maintained throughout. However, the essay is significantly under the 250-word requirement, which limits the depth of the arguments. While the ideas are relevant, they are somewhat underdeveloped; for instance, the point about 'public services' is mentioned but not fully explored with specific examples or consequences. To reach a higher band, you need to expand your supporting points with more detailed explanations or concrete examples to ensure the response is fully developed.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the progression of ideas is easy to follow. You use basic cohesive devices such as 'One important advantage', 'Another benefit', and 'However' to transition between points. While the structure is sound, the range of cohesive devices is somewhat limited and repetitive. To improve, try to incorporate a wider variety of linking words and phrases to create a more sophisticated flow between sentences and paragraphs.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary used is adequate for the task and allows for clear communication. You use some topic-specific terms like 'economic growth', 'unemployment', and 'public services'. However, the range is somewhat basic and repetitive. There is little evidence of less common or idiomatic vocabulary. To achieve a higher band, you should aim to use more precise and varied lexical items. For example, instead of repeating 'help' or 'good', try to use more descriptive verbs and adjectives that demonstrate a higher level of language proficiency.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The essay demonstrates a good level of grammatical accuracy, with most sentences being error-free. You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, such as 'Although a large young population can create problems... I believe that...'. While the grammar is generally reliable, the range of complex structures is limited. To improve, try to incorporate a wider variety of grammatical forms, such as conditional sentences or passive voice, to demonstrate greater flexibility. The current level of control is solid, but more variety would elevate the score.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.