Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-01
IELTS Writing Task 2 question
All university undergraduate courses should include a period of time spent studying abroad or doing a work placement.
Do you think the advantages of this would outweigh the disadvantages?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Student answer (Band 7.0)
Nowadays, many people believe that all university undergraduate courses should include a period of studying abroad or doing a work placement. I believe the advantages of this idea outweigh the disadvantages because students can develop important skills and gain practical experience.
On the one hand, there are some disadvantages. Studying abroad or doing a work placement can be expensive, and not every student can afford the extra cost of travel and accommodation. Some students may also feel homesick because they have to live far from their families. In addition, those who study in another country may face language difficulties, which can make learning more stressful.
On the other hand, the benefits are much greater. Studying abroad helps students learn about different cultures, improve their communication skills and become more independent. Work placements also allow students to apply what they have learned in class to real situations. For example, one of my cousins completed a three-month internship while studying engineering. During this time, he learned practical skills and later received a job offer from the same company after graduation. This shows that work experience can improve students' future career opportunities.
In conclusion, although studying abroad or completing a work placement may create financial and personal challenges, I believe these are minor compared with the valuable knowledge, skills and career benefits that students can gain. Therefore, the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.5 |
| Overall | 7.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5
The response addresses all parts of the prompt and maintains a clear position throughout. However, the essay is 20 words short of the 250-word minimum requirement. While the ideas are relevant and the position is well-supported with a personal example, the under-length nature of the response limits the depth of development. To reach a higher band, you should expand on your arguments, perhaps by discussing the long-term societal benefits of international experience or providing a more detailed counter-argument to the disadvantages mentioned.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the disadvantages from the advantages. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'In addition', and 'In conclusion' are used appropriately to guide the reader through your argument. The progression of ideas is clear, and the relationship between sentences is logical. To improve, you could incorporate a wider variety of linking words or transition phrases to make the flow even more sophisticated.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.0
You demonstrate an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, using terms like 'practical experience', 'financial and personal challenges', and 'career opportunities' correctly. The language is natural and clear, allowing for easy communication. However, the vocabulary is somewhat functional and lacks the 'less common' or more sophisticated lexical items that would characterize a higher band score. To improve, try to incorporate more precise academic collocations or topic-specific terminology related to higher education and professional development.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5
The essay displays a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Most sentences are error-free, and your control of grammar is generally strong. There are no significant errors that impede communication. To move toward a higher band, you should aim to use a wider variety of complex structures, such as conditional sentences or passive voice constructions, to demonstrate greater grammatical flexibility. Ensure that your punctuation remains consistent throughout the text.
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