Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-12
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 5.5)
Some people think that all university students should study in another country or work in a company for some time. I think this is a good idea because it has more good points than bad points.
First, studying in another country can give students new experience. They can see a new place and meet new people. They can also learn about a new culture. For example, a Mongolian student can go to Australia and study there. The student can speak English every day and this can help improve their English.
, working in a company can also be very useful. Students can learn about their future jobs. They can see how people work and how to work with other people. For example, a student who studies business can work in a shop or company. This can help the student understand the real work. It can also help them find a job after university.
, there are some bad points. Going to another country can cost a lot of money. Students need money for food, travel and a place to live. Some students can also feel sad because they are far from their family.
In conclusion, there are some problems with studying or working abroad. , I think the good points are more important. Students can get new experience, learn new things and become more confident.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 5.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.5 |
| Overall | 5.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.0
The response addresses the prompt by discussing both advantages and disadvantages, but it fails to meet the minimum word count requirement of 250 words, which significantly impacts the development of ideas. While you clearly state your position that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, the arguments remain superficial. For instance, the points about cultural exchange and professional development are mentioned but not sufficiently extended or supported with detailed analysis. To reach a higher band, you must expand your arguments with more depth and ensure the essay meets the length requirement to allow for a more comprehensive exploration of the topic.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5
The essay is organized into clear paragraphs, which helps the reader follow your logic. However, the use of cohesive devices is very limited and sometimes mechanical. You rely on simple transitions like 'First' and 'In conclusion', and there are missing transition words at the start of your second and third body paragraphs (indicated by the commas). To improve, you should use a wider variety of linking words and phrases to connect your ideas more fluidly, such as 'Furthermore', 'Conversely', or 'In addition to this'. Improving the flow between sentences will make your writing feel more cohesive and professional.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
Your vocabulary is functional but basic. You frequently repeat simple words like 'good', 'new', and 'help'. While your meaning is clear, the range of vocabulary is limited, which prevents you from expressing more complex ideas or nuances. To improve, you should aim to incorporate more academic or topic-specific vocabulary. For example, instead of saying 'good points', you could use 'benefits' or 'advantages'. Instead of 'help', consider 'facilitate' or 'enhance'. Expanding your range of synonyms and collocations will help you convey your arguments with greater precision and sophistication.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5
The essay consists primarily of simple sentence structures. While these are generally accurate, there is a lack of complex grammatical structures, such as relative clauses, conditional sentences, or passive voice, which are necessary for higher band scores. There are also some minor punctuation issues, such as the missing transition words at the start of paragraphs. To improve, try to combine simple sentences into more complex ones using conjunctions or relative pronouns. This will demonstrate a better command of English grammar and allow for a more sophisticated expression of your ideas.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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