Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-04

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 6.5)

In this modern era, Nowadays, many people believe that all university undergraduate courses should include a period of studying abroad or doing a work placement. They think this can help students develop useful skills before they graduate. Although there are some disadvantages to this idea, I believe that the advantages are much more important because students can gain practical experience and become more prepared for their future careers.

The biggest advantage of studying abroad or doing a work placement is that students can improve both their practical and personal skills. In many universities, students learn a lot of theories from textbooks, but they do not get enough real-life experience. By working in a company or studying in another country, they can understand how their subject is applied in real situations. They also improve their communication skills, teamwork and problem-solving ability. Moreover, living in another country helps students become more independent because they have to manage their own daily life without depending on their family. For example, a nursing student who completes a hospital placement can learn how to care for patients, communicate with doctors and handle medical equipment. This practical experience makes it easier for the student to find a job after graduation because employers usually prefer candidates who already have work experience.

On the other hand, there are a few disadvantages. One major problem is that studying abroad or completing a work placement can be costly. Students may have to spend money on travel, accommodation, food and transportation. This can create financial problems for families with low income. Another issue is that some students may feel homesick or find it difficult to adjust to a different culture and language. As a result, they may not perform well during the first few weeks. For instance, a student from a small town who goes to another country for six months may struggle to communicate with local people and miss their family. This situation can affect both their studies and mental well-being.

In conclusion, although studying abroad or doing a work placement has some disadvantages, such as high costs and adjustment problems, I believe the advantages clearly outweigh them. Students gain valuable practical experience, become more independent and improve the skills that are needed in their future careers. Therefore, universities should encourage undergraduate students to take part in these opportunities.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly state your position in the introduction and maintain it throughout the essay. The arguments for both the advantages (practical experience, independence) and disadvantages (financial burden, cultural adjustment) are well-developed with relevant examples, such as the nursing student scenario. The conclusion effectively summarizes your stance. To reach a higher band, ensure that your supporting points are consistently linked back to the core question of whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, which you have done well here.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and you use cohesive devices such as 'Moreover', 'On the other hand', and 'For instance' effectively to guide the reader. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different aspects of the argument. The transition between the advantages and disadvantages is smooth, and the conclusion provides a clear summary. The structure is coherent and easy to follow throughout.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Phrases like 'practical experience', 'financial problems', and 'mental well-being' are used accurately. While the vocabulary is generally appropriate and natural, it remains somewhat functional. To achieve a higher score, try to incorporate more sophisticated or less common lexical items (e.g., 'invaluable', 'mitigate', 'immersion') to demonstrate a wider, more flexible range. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The essay displays a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. You use complex sentences effectively, such as 'Although there are some disadvantages to this idea, I believe that the advantages are much more important...' and 'By working in a company or studying in another country, they can understand...'. Grammar is generally accurate, with only minor slips, such as the redundant 'In this modern era, Nowadays' at the beginning. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and punctuation is used correctly throughout the text.

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