Band 6.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.0 · 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 6.0)

Some people believe that all university students should spend some time studying in another country or doing a work placement before finishing their degree. I believe that the advantages of this idea are greater than the disadvantages because students can learn useful skills and prepare better for their future careers.

One main advantage is that students can gain real experience. A work placement helps them understand how companies work and how to solve problems in real situations. They can also improve communication and teamwork skills. In addition, studying abroad allows students to learn about different cultures and meet people from other countries. This experience can make them more confident and independent.

Another advantage is that these experiences can improve job opportunities. Many employers prefer graduates who have practical experience. Students who study abroad may also improve their English or other language skills, which can be useful for international jobs. For example, a marketing student who works in a company for a few months can learn skills that are difficult to get only from classroom lessons.

However, there are some disadvantages. Studying abroad can be expensive, and not every student can afford travel and living costs. Some students may also miss their families or find it difficult to adjust to a new place. Even so, universities can reduce these problems by offering scholarships or local work placements.

In conclusion, although there are some challenges, I believe that the benefits of studying abroad or doing a work placement are more important. These opportunities help students develop practical skills, become more confident, and prepare for successful careers.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.0

The response addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of including studying abroad or work placements in undergraduate courses, and presents a clear position throughout that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. In the introduction, the writer clearly states their stance. The main body paragraphs provide relevant ideas regarding skill acquisition, employability, and the associated challenges such as cost and homesickness. However, some of the ideas are slightly general and could be further extended with more specific examples or deeper analysis. For instance, the example of a marketing student is relevant but briefly stated. Overall, the task is well covered and meets the requirements of a Band 6.5 to 7.0, ultimately fitting comfortably into Band 6.5 due to the somewhat limited development of supporting arguments.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay presents a clear overall progression with a logical arrangement of ideas. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, starting with an introduction, followed by two paragraphs outlining advantages, one paragraph addressing disadvantages, and a succinct conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'One main advantage', 'In addition', 'Another advantage', and 'However' are used appropriately to guide the reader through the text. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and effectively. Referencing is generally clear, though paragraph transitions could occasionally be smoother to achieve a higher band. The coherence of the essay remains strong throughout, ensuring that the arguments are easy to follow and logically connected, which aligns well with a Band 7.0 score.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The student uses an adequate range of vocabulary suitable for the task, such as 'work placement', 'practical experience', 'independent', 'scholarships', and 'employers'. There are also successful attempts at less common vocabulary items like 'accommodate' or in this case 'adjust to a new place' and 'international jobs'. Word choice is generally appropriate, and spelling is accurate throughout the text. While the vocabulary is sufficient to convey meaning clearly and allows for some flexibility, it lacks the wider, more sophisticated range and precise collocations required for higher bands. Minor slips in precision keep this criterion at a solid Band 6.0, as the vocabulary is adequate but occasionally standard rather than varied.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The response demonstrates a good mix of simple and complex sentence forms. The writer successfully uses subordinate clauses and complex structures, such as 'Some people believe that all university students should spend some time studying... before finishing their degree' and 'Students who study abroad may also improve their English... which can be useful for international jobs.' Grammatical accuracy is generally high, with frequent error-free sentences. Punctuation is used correctly to separate clauses, and verb tenses remain consistent throughout the essay. The few minor errors or awkward phrasings do not impede communication at all. The control of grammar and range of structures strongly reflect the descriptors for Band 7.0.

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

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