Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-28

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations.

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)

Some people believe that accepting an unsatisfactory situation, such as an unpleasant job or financial difficulties, is the best approach, while others think that people should make efforts to improve their life. Although accepting these situations can help people avoid unnecessary stress, I believe that trying to improve difficult situations is generally more beneficial.

On the one hand, accepting a bad situation can sometimes be practical. Some problems are beyond an individual's immediate control, and constantly worrying about them can cause stress and frustration. For example, a person who has lost a job may need to accept the situation temporarily while looking for another source of income. Similarly, someone facing financial difficulties may have to reduce their spending rather than expecting their circumstances to change immediately. Acceptance can therefore help people remain calm and focus on what they can realistically control.

On the other hand, making an effort to improve a difficult situation can lead to better opportunities in the future. People who are unhappy with their jobs, for instance, can develop new skills, gain qualifications or search for alternative employment. In the same way, someone experiencing financial problems can learn about budgeting or acquire skills that could help them earn more money. Taking such steps may require considerable time and effort, but it can gradually improve a person's quality of life. For example, many people change careers after completing professional courses and eventually find more satisfying employment.

In conclusion, although accepting an unpleasant situation can be sensible when circumstances cannot be changed immediately, I believe that people should try to improve their situations whenever possible. Taking practical steps towards change can create better opportunities and improve people's lives in the long term.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.0

The response addresses all parts of the task fully. The student discusses both views—accepting bad situations and trying to improve them—and provides a clear position throughout the essay, supported by relevant reasoning and examples. The introduction clearly outlines both perspectives and the writer's stance. In the body paragraphs, ideas are well-developed and supported with logical examples, such as job loss and financial difficulties. The conclusion neatly ties the arguments together. The response meets all requirements for a Band 7.0 or higher, as the position is clear and the ideas are well-extended.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, starting with an introduction, followed by balanced body paragraphs discussing each view, and ending with a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Similarly', and 'In conclusion'. Referencing is clear, and paragraphing is managed appropriately. The flow from one idea to the next is smooth and easy to follow, making this a solid performance for Coherence and Cohesion.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow for flexibility and precision. Words and phrases like 'unsatisfactory situation', 'beyond an individual's immediate control', and 'alternative employment' demonstrate a good control of lexical resource. There are attempts at less common vocabulary with an awareness of collocation and style. Although the vocabulary is generally natural and appropriate, it lacks the more sophisticated, highly idiomatic flexibility found in higher bands. However, errors in word choice are virtually absent, resulting in a strong lexical performance.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The student displays a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, maintaining a high proportion of error-free sentences throughout the essay. Examples of complex structures include conditional and participial phrases such as 'Although accepting these situations can help people avoid unnecessary stress, I believe that...' and 'taking such steps may require considerable time and effort, but it can gradually improve...'. Grammar and punctuation are handled with good control, and any minor slips do not impede communication. This sits comfortably within the Band 7 criteria.

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