Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Recent IELTS Exams (Canada & India) · 2026-08-07

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In many countries not enough students are choosing to study science at university. What are the causes of this? What effects does it have on society?

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

Student answer (Band 6.5)

In many parts of the world, the number of students enrolling in science-related university courses has been declining. This trend is a matter of concern because scientific knowledge and innovation are fundamental to a country's economic growth and technological advancement. This essay will discuss the main causes of this phenomenon and explain its consequences for society.

One of the primary reasons why fewer students choose science is that science subjects are generally perceived as difficult and academically demanding. Disciplines such as physics, chemistry, and mathematics require strong analytical abilities, extensive practical work, and consistent effort. Consequently, many students prefer fields that they consider less challenging or more compatible with their interests. Another significant factor is the belief that science degrees require a long educational journey before leading to stable employment. For instance, becoming a researcher or scientist often involves postgraduate studies, whereas careers in business, marketing, or information technology may provide attractive salaries after completing an undergraduate degree. As a result, students seeking quicker financial independence are less inclined to pursue scientific education.

This trend can have several negative effects on society. The most serious consequence is a shortage of qualified scientists, engineers, and researchers, which may hinder technological progress and economic development. Scientific professionals play a crucial role in developing new medicines, improving agricultural productivity, and addressing environmental challenges such as climate change. Without an adequate supply of skilled graduates, countries may struggle to remain competitive in the global economy. Furthermore, a decline in scientific expertise can weaken a nation's ability to respond effectively to public health crises and emerging technological challenges. For example, the rapid development of vaccines during global disease outbreaks relied heavily on highly trained scientists and medical researchers. A lack of such professionals could delay future innovations and reduce society's resilience.

In conclusion, the declining interest in science is mainly driven by the perceived difficulty of these subjects and the lengthy path to career success. If this trend continues, it could result in a shortage of skilled professionals, slower technological advancement, and reduced economic competitiveness. Therefore, governments and educational institutions should encourage students to pursue science by providing scholarships, improving science education, and promoting awareness of the long-term career opportunities available in this field.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly identified two primary causes—the perceived difficulty of science subjects and the lengthy career path compared to other fields—and provided a thorough analysis of the societal effects, such as the shortage of skilled professionals and the impact on innovation. The position is clear throughout, and the ideas are well-developed with relevant examples, such as the development of vaccines. The essay maintains a consistent focus on the task requirements from the introduction to the conclusion.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the causes and the effects is smooth. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Consequently,' 'Another significant factor,' and 'Furthermore,' which help guide the reader through your argument. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct ideas, and the referencing is clear throughout the text. The structure is coherent and professional.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary that is well-suited to the academic context. Phrases such as 'economic growth and technological advancement,' 'quicker financial independence,' and 'public health crises' show a high level of precision. You use less common lexical items effectively, such as 'phenomenon,' 'resilience,' and 'incline,' with natural collocation. There are no significant errors in word choice, and the vocabulary contributes to a sophisticated and fluent tone throughout the essay.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures with high accuracy. You successfully employ complex sentences, such as 'The most serious consequence is a shortage of qualified scientists... which may hinder technological progress,' and conditional structures. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and the punctuation is used correctly to manage complex ideas. There is a high level of control over tense and agreement, and the overall grammatical quality is consistent with a high-level academic response.

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