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 a study abroad or work placement period in university courses, and clearly states a position. The position is maintained throughout the response. Ideas are relevant and extended, such as discussing how practical experience combined with academic knowledge promotes personal growth and employability. However, some arguments, like the example about microbiology students, tend to reiterate the point rather than deeply develop it. Overall, the response fulfills the requirements for Band 7, as all parts are addressed and the position is clear, though further depth could push it higher.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response presents a clear overall progression and logical organization. Each paragraph has a distinct focus: introduction, advantages, disadvantages, and conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'One major advantage', 'In addition', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion' are used effectively to guide the reader through the arguments. Paragraphing is used logically and sufficiently throughout the essay. Referencing is clear, and the relationship between ideas is easy to follow, making this a solid performance that aligns well with the Band 7 descriptors.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates an adequate and generally appropriate range of vocabulary for the task, successfully using terms like 'undertaking work experience', 'independent', 'employability', and 'administrative pressure'. There are occasional attempts at less common lexical items, though some collocations or word choices are standard rather than sophisticated (e.g., 'research work'). Spelling and word formation are generally accurate, and vocabulary does not impede communication. This fits comfortably into the Band 6 or 7 range, leaning towards a solid 6.5, rounded to 7.0 due to the consistent control and functional range.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The essay displays a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including conditional or concessive clauses such as 'Although this policy has some drawbacks, I believe...' and 'Consequently, universities are able to prepare...'. Control of grammar and punctuation is generally good, with frequent error-free sentences. Minor slips occur, but they never impede communication or obscure the meaning. The grammatical range allows for clear expression of complex ideas, supporting a Band 7 score.

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