Band 9.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 9.0 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-07-28

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

The working week should be shorter and workers should have a longer weekend.

Do you agree or disagree?

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

Student answer (Band 9.0)

In recent years, the concept of a reduced working week and a three-day weekend has gained significant traction globally. I strongly agree with this proposal, as shortening the workweek offers substantial benefits for employee productivity and well-being without hindering business performance.

The primary argument for a shorter working week is the dramatic improvement in employee mental and physical health. The standard five-day work routine often leaves individuals with insufficient time to rest, attend to domestic responsibilities, and engage in leisure activities, frequently leading to chronic stress and burnout. A three-day weekend allows workers to properly disconnect from professional pressure, recharge, and maintain a healthier work-life balance. Consequently, employees return to their duties with reduced stress levels, lower rates of absenteeism, and improved overall job satisfaction.

Furthermore, reducing working hours actually enhances workplace efficiency and overall output rather than diminishing it. Research and trial programs in several countries have consistently shown that employees working a four-day week tend to be more focused, organized, and motivated during their shift hours. Unproductive time spent on minor distractions or drawn-out meetings is naturally minimized when time becomes more precious. As Parkinson’s Law suggests, work expands to fill the time allotted for its completion; shortening the timeframe forces teams to streamline processes and prioritize high-value tasks, resulting in equal or superior productivity.

From an economic and environmental perspective, a longer weekend also generates broader societal advantages. An extra day of leisure boosts spending in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, and recreation. Additionally, eliminating one day of commuting per week significantly cuts down on traffic congestion and carbon emissions, making it a sustainable strategy for modern urban planning.

In conclusion, transitioning to a shorter working week and a longer weekend is a forward-thinking policy that aligns with modern economic and human needs. Far from reducing output, it fosters a healthier, more motivated workforce while driving productivity and environmental benefits.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 9.0

The response fully addresses the prompt by taking a clear position and supporting it with well-developed arguments. You explore the benefits of a shorter workweek from multiple perspectives, including employee health, workplace productivity, and broader societal/environmental impacts. Each paragraph introduces a distinct, relevant point that is logically extended with examples and reasoning, such as the reference to Parkinson’s Law. The position is consistent throughout the essay, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes the main points without introducing new information. The response is comprehensive and demonstrates a high level of task fulfillment.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 9.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth, using effective cohesive devices such as 'Furthermore,' 'Consequently,' and 'In addition.' The use of referencing is precise, and the paragraphing is skillful, ensuring that the argument flows naturally from the introduction to the conclusion. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words; instead, the cohesion feels natural and supports the overall clarity of the argument.

Lexical Resource — Band 9.0

You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary, which is used with natural control. Phrases such as 'gained significant traction,' 'chronic stress and burnout,' 'streamline processes,' and 'forward-thinking policy' indicate a high level of lexical proficiency. The vocabulary is not only accurate but also contextually appropriate, contributing to the professional tone of the essay. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the use of less common items is handled with ease and precision.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 9.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences, conditional-like reasoning, and varied clause structures. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over punctuation and syntax is excellent. You successfully integrate different sentence types to maintain interest and clarity. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication, and the overall accuracy is very high, consistent with the requirements for a high band score.

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