Band 4.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 4.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-08-06

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people believe that allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters (such as food, clothes and entertainment) is likely to result in a society of individuals who only think about their own wishes. Other people believe that it is important for children to make decisions about matters that affect them.

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 4.5)

The growing influence of [TOPIC] in modern society has sparked various debates. This issue is particularly significant because its impact affects both individuals and communities in multiple ways. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

One of the key aspects of [TOPIC] is that it promotes innovation, creativity, and access to a wide range of opportunities. This is also evident from the fact that [TOPIC] helps in improving understanding, tolerance, and problem-solving methods in society. As shown in various studies, [TOPIC] has had a profound effect on strengthening social harmony and economic growth in many regions. Another important aspect of [TOPIC] is that it is vital for both individual development and collective progress.

However, despite these benefits, [TOPIC] can also lead to significant challenges. For example, differences in values and beliefs related to [TOPIC] may sometimes lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. Various studies have shown that [TOPIC] may create communication barriers and integration issues among different groups. Additionally, it can lead to social tensions, which may negatively affect relationships and unity within communities.

In conclusion, both views have their own merits. However, I believe that the overall impact of [TOPIC] depends on how effectively it is managed in society.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 3.0

The response fails to address the specific prompt regarding children's autonomy in everyday matters. Instead, the essay uses a generic template with placeholders like [TOPIC], which suggests the content is entirely irrelevant to the task instructions. Furthermore, the response is significantly under the 250-word minimum, reaching only 204 words. Because the essay does not engage with the topic of parenting or child development at all, it fails to develop any relevant ideas or provide a clear position on the specific question asked. This results in a very low score for task achievement as the prompt has been ignored.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0

The essay is structured with an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion, which provides a basic framework. However, the logical progression is non-existent because the content is generic and does not relate to the prompt. Cohesive devices such as 'However' and 'In conclusion' are used, but they connect empty, repetitive ideas rather than a coherent argument. The paragraphing is mechanical, and the lack of topical focus makes the overall flow confusing and disconnected from the requirements of the task.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

The vocabulary used is repetitive and generic, relying heavily on vague terms like 'aspects', 'impact', and 'challenges'. There is no attempt to use topic-specific vocabulary related to child-rearing, decision-making, or social behavior, largely because the essay ignores the prompt. While the words used are spelled correctly and are generally appropriate for a formal register, the range is extremely limited and lacks the precision required for a higher band score. The reliance on placeholders like [TOPIC] further demonstrates a lack of lexical control.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The grammatical structures are relatively simple, consisting mostly of straightforward subject-verb-object sentences. There are few errors in basic grammar, but the range of complex structures is very limited. The essay demonstrates a basic level of control, but it does not show the flexibility or variety expected at higher levels. Because the sentences are short and repetitive in structure, the writing lacks the sophistication needed to achieve a higher score. Punctuation is generally accurate, but the overall grammatical performance is basic.

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.