Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · IELTS Summit Mastery · 2026-07-30

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

A huge number of students choose to study English independently on a self- study basis rather than attend a formal course. However, without the assistance of a teacher, students often find it difficult to manage their studies.

To what extent do you agree or disagree ?

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

Student answer (Band 7.5)

While there is an increasing number of students who decide to study English independently, I would argue that they might find it difficult to manage their studies without the help of professional teachers.

First and foremost, it must be considered that learners have their own reasons to study on their own, such as a tight budget, and flexibility. Studying independently enables students to choose when, where, and how they want to study, exploring the most suitable study pattern for them, whereas having a teacher may require students to show up at a certain time and follow a teaching method that is not really helpful for them, which fundamentally goes against the reason why they start learning. Additionally, in some developing countries, namely China, finding an English teacher is not affordable for everyone, leading some learners to self-study.

Nevertheless, the downsides of self-study cannot be ignored, especially when it comes to English. There are too many aspects in this subject, such as pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension. Not only may students realize that they cannot practice pronunciation without correction but they also may find it difficult to manage all the aspects. For instance, for the first few months of my English learning journey, I wasted a substantial amount of time and energy because I did not have guidance to know what I should study next. Moreover, without the reassurance from professionals, individuals might doubt their learning methods, which has a negative impact on their progress.

In conclusion, for the sake of flexibility and saving money, students may choose to study on a self-study basis; but, such an approach may require more time and confidence. Students need to accept the fact that they may not be able to improve certain aspects on their own.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

You have addressed all parts of the task and maintained a clear position throughout. Your argument is balanced, acknowledging the benefits of self-study (flexibility and cost) while highlighting the significant drawbacks (lack of guidance and correction). The ideas are relevant and well-supported with personal experience, such as your mention of wasting time due to a lack of structure. To reach a higher band, you could further develop the 'teacher' aspect by discussing how professional feedback specifically accelerates language acquisition compared to independent study, rather than just focusing on the difficulties of self-study.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

Your essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'First and foremost', 'Additionally', 'Nevertheless', and 'In conclusion'. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the advantages and disadvantages of self-study. The flow between sentences is generally smooth, and the relationship between ideas is clear. To improve, ensure that your referencing remains precise; for example, in the second paragraph, ensure the transition between the benefits of flexibility and the specific example of China is more tightly linked to maintain a seamless logical flow.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with some precision. Phrases like 'substantial amount of time', 'learning journey', and 'reassurance from professionals' are used appropriately. There is an awareness of style, and your word choice is generally accurate. To move into the higher bands, try to incorporate more sophisticated collocations or less common lexical items related to education, such as 'autonomous learning', 'pedagogical guidance', or 'structured curriculum', which would elevate the academic tone of your writing.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

You use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures effectively. Your control over grammar is generally good, and most of your sentences are error-free. You successfully use complex structures, such as 'Not only may students realize that they cannot practice pronunciation without correction but they also may find it difficult to manage all the aspects.' While there are occasional minor slips, they do not impede communication. To achieve a higher score, ensure consistent subject-verb agreement and refine your use of articles, as there are very occasional minor inaccuracies.

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