Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-13

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)

Numerous individuals believe that all university courses should contain a period of time spent studying abroad or undertaking work experience. Although this policy has some drawbacks, I believe it offers significant educational benefits through work experience that clearly outweigh the disadvantages.

One major advantage of this policy is that it helps students combine academic knowledge with practical, real-world experience. Studying abroad and working in a different environment also promote personal growth. Living independently encourages students to become more responsible. In addition, this process also develops communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, making graduates more confident and employable. Such qualities are increasingly important as many companies now operate internationally. For instance, microbiology students often do internships in laboratories to become familiar with laboratory work; moreover, they gain knowledge about bacteria and research work. Consequently, universities are able to prepare students more effectively for future careers.

On the other hand, this policy may place financial and administrative pressure on universities. Additionally, several undergraduate students may struggle due to low income and the high cost of studying abroad. By way of illustration, smaller institutions may not have enough overseas partnerships or internship opportunities for every student. Furthermore, it can be difficult for students to support themselves independently while abroad, particularly since many internships do not offer paid positions. Compared with the lasting educational benefits, however, these disadvantages are relatively limited.

In conclusion, although requiring undergraduates to study abroad or undertake work placements involves certain practical difficulties, the long-term advantages for students' academic, personal, and professional development are far more significant.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The student addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of including study abroad or work placements in undergraduate courses, and clearly establishes a position that the advantages outweigh the drawbacks. The ideas are relevant and generally well-developed, particularly in the second paragraph where personal growth, employability, and practical knowledge are discussed. For instance, the mention of microbiology students doing laboratory internships provides a relevant, concrete example to support the argument. The opposing view is also addressed with appropriate points regarding financial pressure and institutional limitations. However, some arguments could be extended further to achieve a higher band, as the development occasionally feels slightly formulaic. Overall, the response meets the requirements of a Band 7 performance, as it addresses all parts of the task with a clear position throughout.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, beginning with an introduction, moving to advantages, addressing counter-arguments, and concluding with a concise summary. Cohesive devices are used reasonably well, such as 'One major advantage', 'In addition', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion'. However, there are instances where referencing and paragraph flow could be smoother or more sophisticated. For example, the transition between sentences in the second paragraph occasionally feels mechanical. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct themes, meeting the criteria for a Band 7 where logical organisation and progression are evident.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary that allows for some flexibility and precision, such as 'undertaking work experience', 'academic knowledge', 'practical, real-world experience', and 'professional development'. There are attempts to use less common items like 'employable', 'administrative pressure', and 'partnership', demonstrating an awareness of appropriate academic style and collocation. While most word choices are accurate, some expressions are slightly repetitive or predictable. Spelling and word formation are generally accurate throughout the response. This performance fits comfortably into Band 7, reflecting a sufficient lexical resource to handle the task flexibly.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The student displays a good variety of complex structures alongside simple forms, showing control over grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex sentences include conditional-style phrasing and relative clauses, such as 'Studying abroad and working in a different environment also promote personal growth' and 'Such qualities are increasingly important as many companies now operate internationally.' There are frequent error-free sentences, and minor grammatical or punctuation errors are rare and do not impede communication at all. The control over complex syntax is solid, warranting a Band 7 based on the presence of frequent error-free sentences and good punctuation control.

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