Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-07-30

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people argue that primary schools focus too much on formal learning.

To what extent do you agree with this opinion?

How important do you think it is for children to play as well as learn in the primary school classroom?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 7.5)

Some people argue that primary schools place too much emphasis on formal academic learning. I largely agree with this view because excessive focus on classroom instruction may limit children's overall development. I also believe that play is an essential part of primary education, as it supports both cognitive and social growth.

Formal learning undoubtedly provides children with fundamental skills such as reading, writing and mathematics. These subjects form the basis of future education and should therefore remain a central part of the primary school curriculum. However, if schools concentrate almost exclusively on academic achievement, children may experience unnecessary pressure at an early age. In addition, opportunities to develop creativity, communication and problem-solving skills can be reduced when lessons are dominated by textbooks and examinations.

Play is equally important because it contributes to children's emotional, physical and intellectual development. Through games and group activities, young learners develop teamwork, confidence and the ability to resolve conflicts. Furthermore, educational play can make learning more enjoyable and memorable. For example, children often understand mathematical concepts more effectively through hands-on activities and educational games than through traditional lectures alone. As a result, they are more likely to remain motivated and engaged in the classroom.

In conclusion, although formal learning is essential in primary education, I believe that many schools place too much emphasis on academic study. A balanced approach that combines structured learning with meaningful play is the most effective way to support children's overall development and prepare them for future success.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response addresses both parts of the prompt: the extent of agreement regarding formal learning and the importance of play. The position is clear throughout. However, the response is slightly under the 250-word minimum requirement (247 words). While the ideas are relevant and well-supported, the slight under-length necessitates a minor penalty in this criterion. The arguments regarding the benefits of play and the drawbacks of excessive formal instruction are well-developed, but a more extensive example or a slightly deeper exploration of the 'extent' of the problem would have strengthened the response further.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each paragraph has a central topic, and ideas progress logically from the benefits of formal learning to the necessity of play. Cohesive devices such as 'However', 'In addition', 'Furthermore', and 'As a result' are used effectively to link sentences and ideas. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the flow of the argument is smooth and easy to follow throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The vocabulary is sufficient and appropriate for the task. The student uses a range of topic-specific terms such as 'formal academic learning', 'cognitive and social growth', 'fundamental skills', and 'hands-on activities'. The word choice is generally precise, and there are no significant errors in collocation or spelling that impede communication. While the range is adequate, it could be further enhanced by incorporating more sophisticated or idiomatic expressions to reach a higher band level.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay demonstrates a good command of grammatical structures. There is a mix of simple and complex sentences, such as the use of conditional structures ('if schools concentrate...') and relative clauses ('...that combines structured learning...'). The grammar is accurate, with very few errors, and punctuation is handled correctly. The majority of sentences are error-free, showing good control over complex forms. The writing is clear and professional, meeting the requirements for a high band score in this criterion.

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