Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-30

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people think that competition at work, at school and in daily life is a good thing. Others believe that we should try to cooperate more, rather than competing against each other.

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)

There is ongoing debate whether competition in the workplace, educational institutes and everyday life is a positive development or not. While some people believe it is a beneficial quality to develop, others argue that it creates division between people and everyone should lend a helping hand. I strongly agree with the latter part that not competing with each other carries more benefits.

On one hand, healthy rivalry between competitors in school, offices can contribute to push one's ability and skills to an improved level. When such a circumstance arises, one individual may try their level best to surpass the other person which can strengthen their determination. It further helps to shape their character by implementing a “never give up” mindset where they can explore their potential. For instance, two students competing against each other in a spelling bee quiz will force both the individuals to put extra effort to learn new words and correct spelling. As a result, their vocabulary is enhanced and they are exposed to a wide range of words. Although I disagree with this argument, lacking behind someone could stir an emotional trauma and hamper their mental health.

On the other hand, not showing a hostile stance towards other people in such settings leads to improved relationships and helps to spread brotherhood. When people choose cooperation over hostility, they are more likely to support one another in difficult situations, which can foster mutual trust and respect . For example, a co-worker is not able to meet deadlines within the allocated time frame. Helping that co-worker will not only show empathy, but that person will be able to finish his project. This leads to forge more strong bonding between them. I strongly agree as this gesture spreads kindness without creating unnecessary conflict.

In conclusion, although competition between co-workers and fellow classmates can lead to a competitive atmosphere, I believe that it causes more harm than benefit. In contrast, maintaining a friendly bonding towards other employees and classmates will help to create new relationships that will stay with them for years to come.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both the benefits of competition and the advantages of cooperation. You clearly state your position in the introduction and maintain it throughout the essay. The ideas are relevant and supported by examples, such as the spelling bee and the workplace deadline scenario. To reach a higher band, ensure that your supporting arguments are fully developed; for instance, the discussion on the negative impact of competition (emotional trauma) is mentioned but could be expanded further to balance the depth of the argument. Overall, the response is well-focused and meets the requirements of the task effectively.

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 theme, and the progression of ideas is easy to follow. You use a range of cohesive devices such as 'On one hand,' 'On the other hand,' 'For instance,' and 'In conclusion' to link your ideas. However, some transitions could be more sophisticated to improve the flow. For example, the transition between the benefits of competition and the potential for emotional trauma within the same paragraph is slightly abrupt. Improving the variety of linking words would enhance the overall cohesion of the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey your ideas clearly. Phrases like 'ongoing debate,' 'hostile stance,' and 'foster mutual trust' are used appropriately. There are some minor issues with word choice and collocation, such as 'lacking behind' (should be 'lagging behind') and 'forge more strong bonding' (should be 'forge stronger bonds'). While you attempt to use less common vocabulary, these occasional inaccuracies prevent a higher score. Focusing on precise collocations and avoiding repetitive phrasing will help you achieve a higher band in this criterion.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. You show good control over grammar, and most sentences are clear and error-free. However, there are some grammatical slips, such as 'educational institutes' (should be 'institutions') and 'maintaining a friendly bonding' (should be 'maintaining friendly bonds'). Additionally, there are minor punctuation and article errors throughout the text. While these errors do not impede communication, they occur frequently enough to prevent a higher band. Increasing the variety of complex structures and proofreading for minor grammatical slips will improve your score.

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

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