Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-09-12

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 6.0)

It is often argued that the working week should be reduced so that employees can enjoy an extended weekend. I agree with this statement because less work in a week can enhance workers' well-being and contribute to a significant increase in productivity.

One of the reasons I believe that the working week should be shorter than usual is that this strategy helps workers maintain better mental and physical health. Furthermore, during long weekends, most workers spend their time with family and friends, which helps them relieve stress and improve their overall well-being. Most employees spend their free time involving themselves in physical activities such as running and going on road trips; therefore, they can experience new environments. For example, many global companies have shorter working weeks and provide their employees with the basic amenities they need during their weekends. Some companies also allow their employees to work remotely for two to three days a week.

Moreover, a shorter working week and an extended weekend can boost the productivity of employees. This can motivate them, and well-rested employees are more relaxed, so they can focus better on their work. They can use their competencies in the right direction. As a result, better outcomes can be produced. For instance, companies that provide flexible working schedules can encourage their employees to work with greater determination and concentration.

In conclusion, I believe that an extended weekend and a shortened working week are more beneficial for the overall well-being of employees and can lead to higher productivity.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response clearly addresses all parts of the task by presenting a definite position in agreement with the prompt. The introduction outlines the writer's stance, and both body paragraphs support this position with relevant arguments regarding employee well-being and productivity. Ideas are extended with supporting explanations and examples, such as mentioning global companies with shorter working weeks and flexible schedules. However, while the ideas are relevant, some of the supporting details tend to be slightly repetitive or general rather than fully developed with specific, concrete instances. For instance, the reference to companies providing 'basic amenities' is somewhat vague. Overall, the response meets the criteria for Band 6.5 to 7.0, and since the descriptor for Band 7 requires clear extension and support of ideas, the response comfortably earns a Band 6.0 leaning towards 6.5, placed at 6.0 for slightly under-developed main points.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus: the introduction establishes the writer's position, the first body paragraph discusses health and well-being, the second focuses on productivity, and the conclusion summarises the main points. Cohesive devices are used adequately and generally appropriately, with transition words such as 'Furthermore', 'Moreover', and 'As a result' guiding the reader through the text. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and effectively, with each paragraph addressing a specific aspect of the argument. Although some referencing and linking phrases feel slightly formulaic, the overall arrangement is coherent and easy to follow, justifying a solid Band 7.0 score under the coherence and cohesion descriptors.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The writer demonstrates an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, successfully incorporating less common lexical items such as 'well-being', 'competencies', 'flexible working schedules', and 'determination'. Word choice is generally appropriate and allows the message to be communicated clearly, though there are some minor awkward collocations or phrasing choices, such as 'spend their free time involving themselves in physical activities' rather than 'engaging in'. Spelling and word formation are accurate throughout the piece. While the range is sufficient to allow for some flexibility and precision, it does not consistently display the sophistication or fluency required for a Band 7.0. Therefore, a Band 6.5 is an accurate reflection of the student's lexical control.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The student produces a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures, demonstrating control over subordinate clauses using conjunctions and relative pronouns, as seen in sentences like 'One of the reasons I believe that the working week should be shorter than usual is that this strategy helps workers...' Grammar and punctuation are generally well-managed, and there are many error-free sentences, such as 'In conclusion, I believe that an extended weekend and a shortened working week are more beneficial...' Minor issues appear occasionally, but they do not impede communication. Because the writer employs a variety of complex structures with reasonable accuracy and frequent error-free sentences, the response meets the requirements for a Band 7.0.

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

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