Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-20

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)

It is often argued that all undergraduate students should be required to spend a period of their university education either studying abroad or undertaking a work placement. Although this approach may create certain challenges, I believe that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages because it can provide students with valuable practical experience and help them develop greater independence.

One major advantage of this requirement is that it enables students to gain practical experience that cannot always be obtained in a traditional classroom.This can improve their communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills, while also giving them a clearer understanding of their future careers. Similarly, studying abroad can expose students to different educational systems and cultures, which may broaden their perspectives and improve their ability to communicate with people from diverse backgrounds.

Another significant benefit is the development of independence and adaptability. Living or working in an unfamiliar environment requires students to manage their time, finances and responsibilities without relying heavily on their families. These qualities can be particularly valuable after graduation, when young people enter increasingly competitive and international workplaces. For instance, a student who completes a placement in another city or country may become more confident when dealing with unfamiliar tasks and professional environments.

However, making such programmes compulsory could also create difficulties. Some students may face financial problems, particularly if studying abroad involves expensive accommodation, travel and living costs. In addition, spending a semester away from home may be stressful for students who have family responsibilities or other personal commitments.

In conclusion, although compulsory overseas study or work placements may involve financial and personal difficulties, I believe the benefits are greater. The practical experience, independence and adaptability gained through these opportunities can significantly contribute to students' personal and professional development.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The student has successfully addressed all parts of the task by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of making studying abroad or work placements compulsory, and clearly presented a well-supported position. In the introduction, the writer states their belief that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. This position is maintained consistently throughout the essay. The main body paragraphs provide relevant and extended ideas, exploring practical experience, skill development, independence, and adaptability, as well as acknowledging counter-arguments such as financial burdens and personal stress. The ideas are well-developed and supported with logical reasoning and appropriate examples, aligning well with the Band 7 descriptor.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response demonstrates clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with a clear introduction, followed by body paragraphs exploring specific advantages and disadvantages, and finishing with a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'One major advantage', 'Similarly', 'Another significant benefit', 'However', and 'In conclusion' are used effectively to guide the reader through the arguments. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring the text flows smoothly from one idea to the next. The management of referencing and substitution is also well-handled, meeting the criteria for a solid Band 7.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary that allows for flexibility and precision. Phrases such as 'undertaking a work placement', 'traditional classroom', 'broaden their perspectives', and 'professional environments' show good control of collocation and style. Less common items are attempted with general success, and the writer avoids excessive repetition. There are no noticeable spelling or word-choice errors that impede communication. While the vocabulary is not quite diverse or sophisticated enough to reach Band 8, it easily satisfies the requirements for Band 7.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The essay displays a good variety of complex structures, such as concessive clauses ('Although this approach may create certain challenges...'), relative clauses, and gerund phrases. There are frequent error-free sentences, and the overall control of grammar and punctuation is strong. The writer successfully manages long, multi-clause sentences without losing grammatical control. Although a few minor slips or awkward phrasings could occasionally occur, the majority of sentences are accurate and communication is never impeded. This performance corresponds comfortably to a Band 7 score.

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