Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · 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 7.0)

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 successfully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad or doing work placements, and clearly presents a position that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. The ideas are relevant and generally well-developed. For instance, the second body paragraph explores personal growth, independence, and employability, supported by an example of microbiology students completing laboratory internships. However, the example provided slightly conflates academic study with work experience ('gain knowledge about bacteria and research work'), which points to a minor limitation in task development. Despite this slight lack of precision in supporting details, a clear position is maintained throughout, satisfying the criteria for Band 7.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from a well-framed introduction to detailed body paragraphs, and concluding with a concise summary. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly without being overly mechanical, as seen with transition markers like 'One major advantage', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately to separate distinct thematic ideas. Referencing within paragraphs is generally clear, ensuring that the reader can easily follow the progression of arguments. This performance aligns comfortably with Band 7 descriptors.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The writer displays a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow some flexibility and precision, successfully using less common items such as 'undertaking work experience', 'administrative pressure', and 'last宁 educational benefits'. There is good control of word choice and collocation throughout most of the essay, although some phrases border on the repetitive or slightly predictable (e.g., 'gain knowledge about bacteria and research work'). Spelling and word formation are entirely accurate. While the vocabulary is not expansive enough to warrant an 8, it comfortably exceeds the requirements of Band 6 by demonstrating an appropriate academic tone and precision.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay uses a good mix of simple and complex sentence forms, with frequent error-free sentences. The writer demonstrates control over complex structures, incorporating conditional or concessive clauses effectively, as demonstrated in sentences like 'Although this policy has some drawbacks, I believe it offers significant educational benefits...' and 'Compared with the lasting educational benefits, however, these disadvantages are relatively limited.' Punctuation is accurate, and grammar errors are very rare and non-systematic, meaning they never impede communication. The overall grammatical control demonstrates a strong command of syntax, supporting a high band score.

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