Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-15

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)

It is often argued that primary schools place too much emphasis on formal education and do not provide children with enough opportunities to play. I largely agree with this view because although academic learning is essential at an early age, play is equally important for children's social, emotional and physical development.

On the one hand, formal learning is necessary because primary school is where children develop fundamental academic skills. Subjects such as mathematics, reading and writing provide the foundation for their future education and help them develop logical and analytical thinking. However, excessive academic pressure at such a young age can make children feel stressed and reduce their interest in learning. For example, if primary school students are required to spend most of their day completing worksheets and memorising information, they may become bored and less motivated to participate in classroom activities.

On the other hand, play should be an integral part of primary education because it allows children to develop skills that cannot always be acquired through traditional lessons. Group games, for instance, can teach children how to cooperate, communicate and solve problems with others. Physical activities are also beneficial for their health and can improve concentration when they return to academic tasks. In addition, educational games can combine learning with enjoyment. For example, teachers can use simple mathematical games or quizzes to help children practise numbers while keeping them engaged.

In my opinion, schools should therefore aim for a balance between formal learning and play rather than focusing excessively on either one. Academic subjects should remain an important part of the curriculum, but children should also have regular opportunities for recreational and educational play. This approach can make learning more enjoyable while supporting children's overall development.

In conclusion, I agree that some primary schools place too much emphasis on formal learning. Although academic education is important, play is equally valuable because it contributes to children's physical, social and emotional development. A balanced approach would therefore be the most effective way to educate young children.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You clearly state your position in the introduction and maintain it throughout the essay. Both parts of the question—the extent of agreement regarding formal learning and the importance of play—are well-developed. You provide logical arguments for both sides, such as the need for academic foundations versus the social and emotional benefits of play. The ideas are extended with relevant examples, such as the mention of 'group games' and 'mathematical games,' which effectively support your claims. The conclusion provides a clear summary that reinforces your balanced perspective.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'On the one hand,' 'On the other hand,' 'In addition,' and 'In conclusion.' Referencing is clear throughout, and the paragraphing is logical and appropriate for the structure of an IELTS essay. The flow of information is natural, making the argument easy to follow from start to finish.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic with precision. Phrases such as 'fundamental academic skills,' 'integral part,' and 'overall development' show a good command of language. While the vocabulary is accurate and appropriate for the task, it stays within a relatively standard range. To reach a higher band, you could incorporate more sophisticated or less common collocations (e.g., 'holistic development' or 'pedagogical approach'). However, the current usage is natural and error-free, effectively conveying your ideas without any confusion.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as the use of conditional clauses ('if primary school students are required to...') and concessive clauses ('although academic learning is essential...'). The grammar is highly accurate, with the majority of sentences being error-free. Punctuation is used correctly to support the clarity of your arguments. There are no significant grammatical slips that impede communication, and your control over tense and subject-verb agreement is consistent throughout the piece.

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

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.