Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 12 · 2026-09-30

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 6.5)

Some people believe that children should be free to make their own decisions in everyday matters, while others argue that this may encourage them to become selfish. In my opinion, children should gradually be given the freedom to make choices because it helps them become independent and responsible adults. This essay will discuss both views

On the one hand, those who oppose giving children too much freedom believe that they may start prioritizing their own desires over the needs of others. If children are always allowed to choose what they eat, wear or do for entertainment, they may become unwilling to accept rules or compromise. As a result, they could develop a self-centered attitude that negatively affects their relationships with family, friends and society. For example, a child who is never taught to consider others may find it difficult to cooperate in school or the workplace.

On the other hand, allowing children to make decisions about matters that affect them is an important part of their development. Making choices teaches them responsibility, problem-solving skills and confidence. Although they may occasionally make poor decisions, they can learn valuable lessons from their mistakes with guidance from their parents. For instance, letting a child choose their hobbies or clothing can help them develop their personality while still respecting reasonable boundaries.

In conclusion, although unlimited freedom may encourage selfish behavior, I believe that children should be given appropriate opportunities to make their own decisions under parental guidance. This approach helps them become independent, confident and responsible members of society.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the prompt well. The student clearly discusses both views—that allowing children freedom encourages selfishness versus the view that it fosters important developmental skills—and maintains a consistent position throughout, concluding that children should be given choices gradually under parental guidance. Ideas are well developed and supported with relevant examples, such as how making everyday decisions teaches responsibility and problem-solving, and how a lack of guidance might result in self-centered behavior. The arguments are extended appropriately, meeting all the requirements for a Band 7.0 performance.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The response features a clear logical organization and progression throughout. The essay is properly paragraphed, beginning with an introduction that outlines the structure, followed by two distinct body paragraphs representing the opposing views, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used appropriately, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion', which help guide the reader through the arguments. Referencing and substitution are handled smoothly without mechanical repetition. Overall, cohesion is well managed, supporting a solid Band 7.0 score.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary with good flexibility and precision. Less common lexical items are used effectively with an awareness of style and collocation, such as 'prioritizing their own desires', 'self-centered attitude', and 'reasonable boundaries'. Word choice is generally natural and appropriate for an academic context, and spelling and word formation are accurate throughout. The lexical range comfortably satisfies the criteria for a Band 7.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The writer uses a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, maintaining frequent error-free sentences. Examples of complex structures include conditional sentences ('If children are always allowed to choose...') and relative clauses ('...a child who is never taught to consider others...'). Control over grammar and punctuation is strong, and the few minor imperfections do not impede communication. The grammatical range and accuracy align well with the Band 7.0 descriptors.

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.