Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-28

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 5.0)

It is often argued that all higher education universities should include courses to pursue education overseas and internship programs mandatory. Although this policy could create financial and academic difficulties for some students, I believe that the advantages would outweigh the disadvantages because it would provide a valuable practical experience, and promote students personal and professional growth.

One major benefit of this approach is that students would gain practical skills that cannot always be acquired in a classroom. A work placement, for instance, allows undergraduates to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. This experience can also increase their employability, as employers are generally more interested in their practical expertise. For instance a university student .

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 4.0

The response is significantly under the 250-word minimum requirement, which severely impacts the ability to develop ideas. While you state a clear position in the introduction, the essay is incomplete, ending abruptly mid-sentence ('For instance a university student .'). Because the response is less than half the required length, it fails to address the task fully. To improve, you must expand on your arguments with specific examples and ensure you complete the essay structure, including a conclusion. Currently, the ideas are introduced but not sufficiently extended or supported due to the lack of development.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0

The essay shows some logical organization in the opening paragraph, using a clear transition ('Although this policy...') to present a balanced view. However, the abrupt ending makes it impossible to assess the overall progression or the effectiveness of paragraphing. The use of cohesive devices like 'One major benefit' is appropriate for the start of a paragraph, but the lack of completion prevents a higher score. To improve, focus on finishing your thoughts and using a wider range of linking words to connect your arguments more fluidly.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.0

The vocabulary used is generally appropriate for the topic, with terms like 'higher education', 'internship programs', and 'theoretical knowledge'. However, the range is limited due to the short length of the text. There are some minor awkward phrasings, such as 'include courses to pursue education overseas and internship programs mandatory', which is grammatically clunky. To reach a higher band, aim to incorporate more precise academic collocations and ensure your word choices are natural and varied throughout the entire essay.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The text contains a mix of simple and complex structures, such as the use of the 'Although' clause in the introduction. However, there are grammatical errors, such as the awkward phrasing in the first sentence and the incomplete sentence at the end. Punctuation is generally acceptable, but the lack of a finished thought at the end of the text is a significant issue. To improve, focus on ensuring that all sentences are complete and grammatically sound, and try to vary your sentence structures further.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.