Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 19 · 2026-08-29

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some consumers are increasingly choosing to buy goods that are produced in their local area, rather than imported goods.

What are the reasons for this?

Is this a positive or a negative trend?

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

Student answer (Band 6.5)

There is an ongoing debate regarding people who prefer to purchase products that are locally produced in their area rather than buying imported goods. This is a positive trend as it supports the local economy and creates employment opportunities.

In many countries, people prefer to buy goods that are locally manufactured, this leads to an increase in demand of the items and their production. Locally made items are usually affordable and accessible which attracts the consumer ultimately benefitting both the seller and the producer. For example, items produced in the local market face less taxation and are thus more affordable as compared to the imported items which are expensive due to taxes and duties at customs. Another reason to support this trend is an increase in employment opportunities. When people purchase their own production, industries flourish and expand based on the demand which positively influences the job market.

Moreover, many local products like food items, clothing and furniture are a reflection of the country's heritage and cultural significance. Homemade crafts and traditional arts are recognized worldwide if they are locally popular.

On the other hand, many people trust imported brands due to their global popularity and consumption. Status conscious people mostly prefer international commodities to seek validation of society. Although imported items provide a wider range of choices and improved quality, local items are more cheaper, convenient, offer freshness and quality of food.

In conclusion, while both arguements hold merit, I believe the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages. As this leads to community support and promotes local wealth and culture.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, identifying reasons for the trend (economic benefits, employment, cultural heritage) and expressing a clear position that it is a positive trend. The ideas are relevant and generally well-supported, though some points, such as the discussion on 'status conscious' consumers, could have been more deeply integrated into the overall argument. The conclusion effectively summarizes the stance. To reach a higher band, ensure that the counter-argument is more thoroughly balanced against your main position to demonstrate a more nuanced perspective.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct ideas. Cohesive devices such as 'Moreover', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion' are used to guide the reader. However, some transitions are slightly mechanical, and the flow between the second and third paragraphs could be smoother. Referencing is generally clear, though the connection between the 'status conscious' point and the rest of the argument could be more tightly linked to improve the overall progression of ideas.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The vocabulary is sufficient for the task and allows for some flexibility. You use relevant terms such as 'employment opportunities', 'cultural significance', and 'customs duties'. There are some minor inaccuracies in word choice, such as 'more cheaper' (a double comparative error) and 'consumption' used in a slightly awkward context. While you attempt some less common vocabulary, the range is adequate rather than wide. To improve, focus on using more precise collocations and avoiding redundant phrasing to enhance the sophistication of your writing.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The essay demonstrates a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. While the meaning is always clear, there are several grammatical errors, such as the comma splice in '...locally manufactured, this leads to...' and the aforementioned 'more cheaper'. Punctuation is generally functional, but there is a need for better control over sentence boundaries. The majority of sentences are understandable, and errors do not impede communication, but the frequency of these slips prevents the essay from reaching a higher band. Focus on subject-verb agreement and avoiding redundant comparative structures.

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