Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Recent IELTS Exams (Canada & India) · 2026-09-17

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 countries, fewer students are choosing science-related subjects at university. This trend can be caused by several factors, and it may have serious consequences for society. This essay will discuss the main reasons for this situation and its possible effects.

One major reason is that science subjects are often considered difficult and demanding. Students have to spend considerable time studying mathematics, experiments and technical concepts, which can make these subjects less attractive than fields such as business, media or social sciences. Another reason is that some students believe that science degrees do not always provide immediate or well-paid employment opportunities. For example, a student may prefer to study business or computer-related fields because they believe these qualifications can lead to jobs in a wider range of industries. In addition, inadequate science facilities and a lack of experienced teachers in schools can prevent young people from developing an interest in scientific subjects at an early age.

This decline can have several negative effects on society. Firstly, there may be a shortage of qualified scientists, researchers and engineers in the future. These professionals are essential for developing new medicines, improving technology and solving environmental problems. For instance, countries with fewer researchers may become increasingly dependent on other nations for medical discoveries and advanced technologies. Secondly, a shortage of science graduates could slow economic and technological development because industries such as healthcare, energy and manufacturing require a steady supply of skilled scientific workers.

In conclusion, the declining number of university students studying science is mainly related to the difficulty of these subjects, concerns about career opportunities and weaknesses in science education. If this trend continues, societies may face shortages of skilled professionals and slower progress in important scientific and technological fields.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The student fully addresses all parts of the task by clearly identifying both the causes of the decline in science students at university and the potential effects on society. A clear and consistent position is maintained throughout the essay. The causes—such as the perceived difficulty of science subjects, concerns over immediate employment opportunities, and inadequate school facilities—are well-developed and supported with logical explanations and examples. Similarly, the effects, including potential shortages of qualified professionals and slower economic and technological progress, are thoroughly explored. The response meets the criteria for Band 7, as all parts of the prompt are addressed with clear extension and support, showing a strong understanding of the task requirements without any off-topic tangents.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. There is a clear overall structure, featuring an introduction, two well-developed body paragraphs focusing separately on causes and effects, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively to guide the reader through the arguments, such as 'One major reason,' 'Another reason,' 'In addition,' and 'Firstly,' 'Secondly.' Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph having a distinct and clear central topic. Referencing throughout the text is clear and appropriate, ensuring that ideas flow smoothly from one sentence to the next. The response easily meets the standard for a Band 7 in Coherence and Cohesion.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow for flexibility and precision, such as 'science-related subjects,' 'immediate or well-paid employment opportunities,' 'inadequate science facilities,' and 'steady supply of skilled scientific workers.' There is a commendable attempt to use less common items with some awareness of style and collocation, such as 'growing dependent on other nations' and 'slow economic and technological development.' While the vocabulary is generally well-chosen and appropriate for an academic context, it lacks the broader flexibility and more sophisticated, sophisticated control of less common lexical items required for higher bands. Spelling and word choice are accurate throughout, meaning communication is never impeded.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The response features a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, demonstrating sound control of grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include 'Students have to spend considerable time studying mathematics... which can make these subjects less attractive' and 'If this trend continues, societies may face shortages...' There are frequent error-free sentences, and the overall grammatical control is strong. Minor errors are virtually absent, and punctuation is handled correctly throughout. The grammatical range and accuracy comfortably support a Band 7 rating, as the writer handles complex sentences with good flexibility and maintains a high level of accuracy.

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