Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Barron's Writing · 2026-09-27

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people say that the best way to discourage smoking is to make smoking illegal in public places. Other people say that this is not enough and that other measures are needed.

Discuss both these views, and give your opinion.

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

Student answer (Band 6.5)

In recent years, smoking has become a serious addiction among the younger generation. Many people believe that the best way to discourage smoking is to ban it in public places, while others argue that measures alone are not sufficient and that additional steps are required. This essay will discuss both perspectives and present my opinion on these views.

To begin with, making cigarette smoking illegal in public places can discourage many individuals from smoking because it limits the opportunities to engage in this habit. When smokers are not permitted to use cigarettes in restaurants, parks, educational institutions, and workplaces, they may gradually reduce their consumption. For example, an employee who usually smokes several times a day may find it inconvenient to leave the office whenever he wants a cigarette. Consequently, they may begin to lose their cravings and use healthier alternative substitutes over this. Such restrictions create a healthier environment for non-smokers by reducing exposure.

However, prohibiting smoking in public areas is not enough because it does not directly address nicotine dependence. Many people have difficulty getting rid of it, as they have a stronger addiction and may continue this in private. Therefore, the government should introduce additional laws and measures such as public awareness campaigns, smoking-cessation programmes, and rehabilitation centres. For instance, health care centres provide free counselling sessions and support smokers who want to quit, helping them understand the risks of tobacco and develop effective strategies to reduce their cravings. As a result, combining legal restrictions and practical support could make it easier for smokers to overcome their dependence.

In conclusion, banning smoking in public places can reduce the consumption of tobacco and reduce exposure to non-smokers. Nevertheless, I believe this policy should be supported by governments and educationlist

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the task well, discussing both views regarding public smoking bans and the necessity of additional measures. A clear position is maintained throughout the essay. The student states that while public bans help reduce consumption, they must be supported by governments and educational programmes to tackle addiction directly. Ideas are generally well-developed with relevant examples, such as employees finding it inconvenient to smoke outside workplaces and healthcare centres providing free counseling. However, the conclusion is abruptly cut off at 'educationlist', which represents a minor omission in fully completing the final thought. Nonetheless, the task is covered to a high standard, earning a solid Band 7.0 for addressing all components effectively.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving smoothly from the introduction to the first view, the second view, and finally the conclusion. Cohesive devices are used appropriately to guide the reader, such as 'To begin with', 'Consequently', and 'However'. Paragraphing is handled well, ensuring logical separation of ideas. Referencing is generally clear, though the sudden termination of the final sentence slightly disrupts the overall cohesive flow at the very end. Overall, the structural progression is clear and logical, meeting the criteria for a Band 7.0.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary for the task, allowing for some flexibility and precision. Phrases such as 'serious addiction among the younger generation', 'nicotine dependence', and 'practical support' are used appropriately. Less common items like 'prohibiting', 'inconvenient', and 'rehabilitation centres' show an awareness of style and collocation. There are very few lexical errors, and communication is never impeded. Although the vocabulary does not quite reach the sophisticated flexibility required for higher bands, it comfortably satisfies the Band 7.0 descriptor for adequate range and control.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The response exhibits a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentence forms. The student successfully employs subordinate clauses, such as 'When smokers are not permitted to use cigarettes in restaurants... they may gradually reduce their consumption.' There are frequent error-free sentences, and grammar and punctuation are generally well-controlled. Minor lapses occur, such as the awkward phrasing 'use healthier alternative substitutes over this', but these do not impede communication. The control over complex syntax is consistent throughout the body paragraphs, justifying a Band 7.0 score.

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