Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Recent IELTS Exams (Canada & India) · 2026-09-04

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 6.0)

In many countries, fewer students are choosing to study science at university. This essay will discuss the main causes of this trend and its effects on society.

There are several reasons why students are less interested in studying science at university. Firstly, science subjects are often considered difficult because they require students to understand complex concepts and spend a considerable amount of time studying. As a result, many young people prefer subjects such as arts, business or other fields that they may find easier or more interesting. Secondly, some students believe that science courses require a great deal of hard work and do not provide attractive career opportunities compared with other popular fields.

This trend can have several negative effects on society. One major impact is that there may be a shortage of scientists and researchers in the future. Scientists play an important role in developing new medicines, technologies and solutions to social problems. If fewer students choose science, countries may have difficulty finding enough skilled professionals to support scientific development. Moreover, a lack of science graduates could slow down technological progress and reduce a country's ability to compete with other nations.

In conclusion, students may avoid studying science because these subjects are difficult and require considerable effort, while other fields may seem more attractive. This can lead to a shortage of scientists and researchers and may negatively affect technological and scientific development in society.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The essay addresses both parts of the prompt: causes (difficulty, career perceptions) and effects (shortage of professionals, slowed innovation). However, the response is under the 250-word minimum, which limits the depth of development. While the ideas are relevant, they remain somewhat superficial. For example, the impact on society is discussed in general terms but lacks specific examples or a more nuanced exploration of the consequences. To reach a higher band, you should expand on your points with more detailed explanations or concrete illustrations to ensure the response is fully developed and meets the length requirement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central topic, and cohesive devices such as 'Firstly', 'Secondly', 'As a result', and 'Moreover' are used effectively to guide the reader. The progression of ideas is smooth and easy to follow. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the relationship between the causes and effects is clearly established. To improve, you could vary your cohesive devices further to avoid relying on standard transition words, which would make the flow feel more natural and sophisticated.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary is adequate for the task and allows for clear communication. You use some topic-specific terms like 'scientific development', 'skilled professionals', and 'technological progress'. However, the range is somewhat limited, and there is a reliance on simpler vocabulary such as 'difficult', 'interesting', and 'popular'. To achieve a higher band, you should aim to incorporate more precise, less common lexical items. For instance, instead of 'difficult', you could use 'demanding' or 'rigorous'. Expanding your range of collocations and academic vocabulary will help demonstrate a more flexible control of language.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a good level of grammatical control. You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, such as conditional sentences ('If fewer students choose science, countries may have difficulty...') and relative clauses. The sentences are generally error-free, and punctuation is used correctly. While the grammar is accurate, the range of complex structures is somewhat limited. To improve, try to incorporate a wider variety of advanced grammatical forms, such as passive voice constructions or inverted structures, to showcase your ability to handle more complex syntax with precision.

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

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