Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · IELTS Summit Mastery · 2026-09-13

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 7.0)

It is becoming increasingly common for students to learn English independently rather than attend formal language courses. Although self-study can be convenient and flexible, I agree that many students may struggle to manage their learning without the guidance of a teacher.

One major advantage of studying English independently is that students can choose their own schedule and learning methods. For example, they can practise vocabulary, grammar or listening whenever they have free time. They can also use a wide range of online resources, such as educational videos, language-learning applications and websites. This allows learners to focus on the areas in which they are weak. However, self-study requires a high level of discipline, and some students may find it difficult to remain motivated without regular support.

On the other hand, teachers can provide important guidance that is not always available through independent learning. They can identify students' mistakes and explain how to correct them. For instance, a teacher can notice repeated grammar or pronunciation errors and give specific advice to improve them. In addition, attending a formal course gives students opportunities to communicate with other learners, which can improve their confidence in using English. Without such interaction, students may know a lot of vocabulary and grammar but still struggle to speak naturally.

In conclusion, although self-study offers flexibility and access to many useful resources, I believe that learning without a teacher can be challenging for many students. Therefore, a combination of independent study and teacher guidance is likely to be the most effective approach for improving English.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing both the advantages of independent study and the reasons why students struggle to manage without a teacher, ultimately taking a clear and well-developed stance. In the introduction, the writer states, 'I agree that many students may successfully struggle to manage their learning without the guidance of a teacher' (though actually phrasing it as agreeing with the difficulty). The body paragraphs carefully extend and support ideas, such as detailing how teachers can notice repeated grammar or pronunciation errors, and how interaction improves confidence. The ideas are well-supported with relevant examples and explanations throughout. The conclusion brings all these threads together cohesively, resulting in a fully developed response that meets the Band 7 and touches on Band 8 descriptors for task achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The response demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct and well-managed focus. The essay begins with an introduction outlining the background and the writer's position, moves into the advantages of self-study, transitions nicely using 'On the other hand' to discuss the benefits of teachers, and concludes with a balanced summary. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'For example', 'In addition', and 'In conclusion'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, separating distinct ideas into logical blocks. Referencing and substitution are clear, meaning the reader can easily follow the flow of arguments without confusion.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision, such as 'independently', 'convenient and flexible', 'educational videos', and 'interaction'. There are successful attempts to use less common items with an awareness of collocation, like 'high level of discipline', 'remain motivated', and 'repeated grammar or pronunciation errors'. While the vocabulary is largely standard and appropriate for an academic context rather than exceptionally sophisticated, it successfully conveys precise meaning without noticeable errors in word choice. The spelling and word formation are accurate throughout, supporting smooth communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The essay displays a good variety of complex structures alongside simple forms, such as concessive clauses ('Although self-study can be convenient and flexible...') and relative clauses ('...areas in which they are weak'). There are frequent error-free sentences, and the writer demonstrates good control of grammar and punctuation. Minor slips are virtually absent, and sentence boundaries are handled correctly. The grammatical control is solid, allowing for fluent reading, which comfortably aligns with Band 7 standards, showcasing good control with only occasional minor imperfections.

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

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