Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · IELTS Complete Catalyst · 2026-09-18

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In some countries, it can be very difficult for people over the age of 50 to get good jobs, despite their experience.

What do you think are the causes of this problem, and what measures could be taken to solve it?

You should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.

Student answer (Band 6.5)

In some countries, people over the age of 50 find it increasingly difficult to secure good employment, even though they have considerable experience. This problem is mainly caused by age discrimination and rapid changes in the workplace. However, several measures can be taken to address it.

One major reason is that some employers prefer younger workers because they believe they are more energetic, adaptable and willing to accept lower salaries. In addition, older employees may have higher salary expectations because of their experience. Another important factor is technological development. Many industries now require employees to use advanced digital tools, and some older workers may not have received sufficient training in these areas. For example, a company may choose a younger applicant who is familiar with modern software rather than an experienced person who lacks digital skills.

There are several ways to tackle this issue. First, governments should introduce stronger laws against age discrimination and ensure that employers assess candidates according to their skills rather than their age. Second, companies could provide regular training programmes to help older employees develop digital and professional skills. This would enable them to remain competitive in the modern labour market. Furthermore, governments could offer financial incentives to businesses that employ and retain older workers.

In conclusion, the difficulty faced by people over 50 is largely the result of age-based stereotypes and technological changes. Stronger legal protection, workplace training and government incentives could help older people find suitable employment and allow societies to benefit from their valuable experience.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by clearly identifying both the causes of the problem, such as age discrimination and rapid technological changes, and practical measures to solve it, including legal protection and corporate training. The position is well-maintained throughout the essay. Ideas are extended and supported with relevant explanations and examples, such as the mention of younger applicants being chosen due to software familiarity. The development is appropriate for an academic response, and all requirements of the prompt are successfully met, aligning closely with the Band 7 descriptors.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay presents a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct and clear central topic, starting with an introduction, moving to causes, then to solutions, and finishing with a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly, as seen with transition markers like 'One major reason', 'In addition', and 'First'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately to separate ideas logically. Referencing throughout the text is clear and contributes to the overall smooth flow of information, supporting a solid Band 7 rating.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary for flexibility and precision. Phrases such as 'secure good employment', 'age-based stereotypes', and 'labour market' show an awareness of collocation and academic style. There are attempts at less common items, and word choices are generally accurate. Spelling and word formation are entirely correct throughout the text. Although it does not quite reach the consistently sophisticated level required for a Band 8, the lexical resource is strong, natural, and easily meets the criteria for Band 7.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writing exhibits a good variety of complex structures alongside simple forms. The student successfully incorporates conditional and dependent clauses, such as 'even though they have considerable experience' and 'if they are more energetic'. There are frequent error-free sentences, and control of grammar and punctuation is consistently good, with no distracting slips or structural breakdowns. The majority of complex sentences are formed accurately, demonstrating the control associated with a Band 7 performance.

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