Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-09-26

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In a number of countries, some people think it is necessary to spend large sums of money on constructing new railway lines for very fast trains between cities. Others believe the money should be spent on improving existing public transport.

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)

Some people believe that governments should spend large amounts of money constructing new railway lines for very fast trains between cities, while others think this money should be used to improve existing public transport. This essay will discuss both views and explain why I believe investing in high-speed railways is beneficial.

On the one hand, many people believe that improving existing public transport should be the priority. In many cities, buses, trains and local transport systems are overcrowded, unreliable and uncomfortable. Spending money on these services could make daily travel easier for a large number of people. For example, improving local buses and railway networks can reduce delays and provide better transportation for people who use public transport every day. Moreover, better public transport can encourage people to leave their cars at home, which may help reduce traffic congestion and pollution.

On the other hand, there are strong reasons to invest in new high-speed railway lines between cities. First, these trains can significantly reduce travelling time. People can travel between major cities much faster than by bus or car, which is particularly useful for business travellers and people who need to travel frequently. Second, high-speed trains can provide a comfortable and convenient alternative to other forms of transport.

In my opinion, governments should spend a considerable amount of money on developing high-speed railway networks. Although improving existing public transport is important, new railway lines can provide long-term benefits by connecting cities more efficiently and reducing travelling time. If these systems are properly planned and reasonably priced, they can become an attractive alternative to cars and buses.

In conclusion, while improving existing public transport can benefit people in their daily lives, I believe that developing new high-speed railway lines is also a valuable investment because it offers faster and more efficient travel between cities.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views—investing in new high-speed railways versus improving existing public transport—and provides a clear position throughout. The introduction outlines the essay structure, and the conclusion restates the writer's stance. The body paragraphs present relevant ideas that are extended and supported, such as how existing transport reduces overcrowding and pollution, while high-speed trains save travel time for business commuters. While some points could be expanded further with more specific examples, the overall coverage meets the requirements for a Band 7.0 by addressing all aspects of the prompt with a clear, developed position.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with an introduction, followed by balanced body paragraphs examining each viewpoint, a well-reasoned personal opinion paragraph, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'On the one hand,' 'On the other hand,' 'First,' and 'Second,' which guide the reader smoothly through the arguments. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring the text is cohesive and easy to follow, fitting the Band 7.0 descriptor well.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.0

The student demonstrates an adequate to sufficient range of vocabulary for the task. Words and phrases like 'overcrowded,' 'traffic congestion,' 'business travellers,' and 'long-term benefits' are used accurately and appropriately in context. There are attempts to use less common vocabulary, such as 'alternative' and 'considerable amount,' although much of the language remains standard rather than sophisticated. Spelling and word choice are generally accurate, and vocabulary errors do not impede communication. This performance aligns comfortably with the Band 6.5 or 7.0 descriptors, showing sufficient flexibility and precision.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The essay exhibits a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including conditional clauses ('If these systems are properly planned...') and subordinate clauses ('while improving existing public transport can benefit...'). Control of grammar and punctuation is generally strong, with frequent error-free sentences throughout the text. Where errors do occur, they are very minor and do not impede communication at all. The grammatical range allows for clear expression of complex ideas, supporting a solid Band 7.0 score.

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