Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · IELTS Momentum Workout · 2026-09-14

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In many parts of the world girls and boys are educated together in co-educational or mixed schools. Some people think that girls and boys benefit from being educated separately in single-sex schools. To what extent do you agree with this view?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience. Write at least 250 words.

Student answer (Band 6.5)

In many countries, boys and girls study together in co-educational schools. However, some people believe that students can benefit more from studying in single-sex schools. I partly agree with this view because separate schools can improve concentration, but mixed schools can provide better social and communication skills.

Firstly, single-sex schools may help students focus more on their studies. When boys and girls are educated separately, there may be fewer social distractions, especially during the teenage years. As a result, students can concentrate better on lessons and participate more actively in academic activities. In addition, teachers can sometimes use teaching methods that are more suitable for the needs of a particular group. For example, some students may feel more confident asking questions or expressing their opinions when they are studying with students of the same gender.

On the other hand, co-educational schools also have several important advantages. The main benefit is that students learn how to communicate and cooperate with people of different genders from an early age. This can prepare them for university, workplaces and other situations where men and women work together. Moreover, studying together can reduce gender stereotypes because students can understand each other's abilities and interests through regular interaction. For instance, boys and girls can work together on group projects and learn to respect different opinions.

In conclusion, although single-sex schools may provide a more focused learning environment, I believe that co-educational schools offer greater benefits overall. They not only support academic development but also help students develop communication, teamwork and social skills that are important in adult life.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the potential benefits of single-sex schools and the advantages of co-educational schools, presenting a clear position throughout. In the introduction, the writer states, 'I partly agree with this view because separate schools can improve concentration, but mixed schools can provide better social and communication skills.' This position is well-maintained and supported in the body paragraphs. Body paragraph one logically explores how single-sex education may reduce social distractions and increase academic participation. Body paragraph two effectively balances this by highlighting the social and collaborative benefits of co-educational environments. Ideas are extended and supported with relevant explanations and examples, fulfilling the Band 7 requirements for Task Achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay displays clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, starting with an introduction, followed by two distinct body paragraphs representing opposing views, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively to guide the reader through the arguments, as seen with transition markers like 'Firstly', 'In addition', 'On the other hand', and 'Moreover'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring the logical flow of ideas is maintained from start to finish. Referencing is clear, and the overall arrangement reflects the characteristics of a Band 7 performance in Coherence and Cohesion.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow for flexibility and precision. Words and phrases such as 'social distractions', 'gender stereotypes', 'co-educational schools', and 'academic development' are used accurately. There is some attempt to use less common vocabulary with awareness of style and collocation, such as 'cooperate', 'interaction', and 'focused learning environment'. Spelling and word choice are generally accurate, and vocabulary does not impede communication at any point. While it lacks the more sophisticated, uncommon lexical items required for higher bands, it comfortably meets the criteria for Band 7.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writer uses a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, maintaining good control over grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include conditional and subordinate clauses, such as 'When boys and girls are educated separately, there may be fewer social distractions' and 'This can prepare them for university, workplaces and other situations where men and women work together.' There are frequent error-free sentences throughout the text, and the minor errors that do occur do not impede communication. Punctuation is used correctly to separate clauses and list items. This demonstrates a strong command of grammar consistent with a Band 7 score.

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