Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-24

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. 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?

There is no doubt that formal education is essential during the primary school years, as children need to acquire fundamental skills such as literacy and numeracy. However, I partly agree that schools can place excessive emphasis on academic learning. In my view, play should be given a significant role in primary education because it promotes children's social, physical and cognitive development in ways that conventional lessons cannot always achieve.

One reason why formal learning deserves considerable attention is that primary school is a crucial stage for developing basic academic abilities. Children need structured instruction to learn how to read, write and perform mathematical calculations, all of which provide the foundation for their future education. Moreover, schools have a responsibility to ensure that pupils acquire the knowledge specified in the curriculum within a limited period. For example, if teachers devoted most of the school day to recreational activities, children might not develop sufficient proficiency in essential subjects by the end of the academic year. Nevertheless, an excessive academic workload can have the opposite effect, as young children may become stressed, bored or disengaged when they spend too much time completing exercises and preparing for tests.

Play, therefore, should be considered an integral part of primary education rather than merely a break from learning. Through games and other recreational activities, children can develop communication, cooperation, creativity and problem-solving skills while also improving their physical fitness. For instance, a team-based game requires pupils to communicate with their classmates, follow rules, resolve disagreements and make decisions collectively. These experiences can strengthen interpersonal skills that are difficult to develop through textbooks and individual written exercises alone. Furthermore, physical play provides children with regular exercise and can make the school environment more enjoyable, potentially increasing their motivation to learn.

In conclusion, although formal academic learning is indispensable for establishing children's fundamental knowledge and skills, I agree that an excessive focus on it is undesirable. Primary schools should strike a balance between structured academic instruction and opportunities for play, since both are essential to children's intellectual, social and physical development.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses both parts of the prompt. You clearly state your position in the introduction and maintain it throughout the essay. The arguments regarding the necessity of formal learning and the benefits of play are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the mention of team-based games to foster interpersonal skills. The ideas are extended logically, and the balance between the two perspectives is handled effectively. You have successfully met all requirements of the task by providing a clear, consistent argument supported by reasoning and examples.

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 the necessity of formal learning and the importance of play is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'However,' 'Moreover,' 'Nevertheless,' and 'Furthermore,' which guide the reader through your argument without being repetitive or mechanical. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different aspects of the discussion, and referencing is clear throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary that is appropriate for an academic context. Phrases such as 'fundamental skills,' 'structured instruction,' 'interpersonal skills,' and 'indispensable' show a good command of language. The word choice is precise, and you avoid repetition by using synonyms effectively. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the vocabulary used is sophisticated enough to convey your ideas clearly and naturally.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses (e.g., 'although formal academic learning is indispensable...'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense usage is excellent. There are no significant grammatical slips that impede communication. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a high level of accuracy, consistent with the requirements for a high band score.

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