Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-09-28

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 7.5)

**Competition and cooperation both play important roles in work, education and everyday life, yet people disagree about which approach is more beneficial.** While some argue that competing against others motivates people to achieve more, others believe that working together produces better results for everyone. In my view, a healthy balance is ideal, but cooperation should generally take priority because it builds stronger relationships and sustainable progress.

Supporters of competition claim that it drives individuals to improve and excel. At school, for example, ranking students or holding contests can encourage them to study harder and develop skills more quickly. In the workplace, competition for promotions or bonuses often pushes employees to be more productive and innovative. In daily life, competing in sports or personal goals can build resilience and a strong work ethic. Without the pressure of rivals, many people might become complacent and fail to reach their full potential. History shows that competitive markets have also led to technological advances and higher living standards in many countries.

On the other hand, those who favour cooperation argue that collaboration creates more positive and lasting outcomes. When people work together rather than against each other, they can share ideas, support one another and solve complex problems more effectively. In schools, group projects teach communication and teamwork skills that are essential later in life. At work, companies that encourage collaboration often have happier staff, lower turnover and more creative solutions. In everyday situations, cooperating with neighbours or family members builds trust and a sense of community. Excessive competition, by contrast, can create stress, anxiety and unhealthy rivalry, sometimes damaging relationships and mental health.

In my opinion, while competition can provide useful motivation in limited doses, cooperation is ultimately more valuable. Most real-world challenges—from scientific research to environmental issues—require people to combine their strengths rather than fight for individual glory. A balanced approach works best: healthy competition can inspire effort, but it should always be framed within a cooperative spirit so that success is shared and relationships remain intact. For instance, sports teams compete against others yet succeed only when their own members cooperate closely.

In conclusion, competition can stimulate progress and personal growth, but cooperation fosters better relationships, greater creativity and more sustainable results. Society benefits most when people learn to compete fairly while prioritising teamwork.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the views that competition is beneficial and that cooperation is better, while clearly presenting the writer's own position throughout. Ideas are well developed and extended logically, supported by relevant examples across different contexts such as school, the workplace, and daily life. For instance, the discussion on how competition drives technological advances and how collaboration solves complex problems provides solid, well-rounded support. The position is consistently maintained and integrated into a thoughtful conclusion. Based on the official band descriptors, this performance easily satisfies the requirements for a Band 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are logically sequenced, beginning with a strong introduction that outlines both perspectives and the writer's stance. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each body paragraph focusing on a distinct sub-topic (the benefits of competition, the benefits of cooperation, and the synthesis/personal opinion). Cohesive devices such as 'While some argue', 'Supporters of competition', 'On the other hand', and 'In my opinion' are used flexibly and naturally without mechanical over-use. Referencing and substitution are well managed, ensuring smooth transitions between sentences and paragraphs, corresponding solidly to a Band 8.0 level.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.5

The student exhibits a wide, fluent, and flexible range of vocabulary appropriate for an academic discussion. Less common and precise items are used skilfully throughout the essay, such as 'sustainable progress', 'complacent', 'complex problems', and 'unhealthy rivalry'. Word choices and collocations are generally natural and accurate, with only rare minor inappropriacies. Spelling and word formation are entirely correct. The lexical range allows the writer to convey precise shades of meaning, fitting comfortably within the Band 8.0 criteria.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response features a wide range of complex structures used with a high degree of flexibility and accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free, and complex constructions—such as concessive clauses ('While some argue that...') and conditional-style meanings—are handled with strong control. Punctuation is accurate and guides the reader effectively through the arguments. There are only very occasional minor slips, which do not impede communication at all. This level of grammatical control and variety aligns well with the Band 8.0 descriptor.

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