Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-08-26

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)

In today’s education system, primary schools tend to place considerable emphasis on formal academic learning. While I largely agree that this focus can sometimes be excessive, I believe that a balanced combination of classroom education and play is essential for children’s overall development.

Formal learning is undoubtedly important during the early years of education. Primary schools provide children with fundamental skills such as reading, writing and basic mathematics, which form the foundation for their future studies. In addition, subjects such as science and languages help children develop their knowledge and understanding of the world. A structured learning environment can also teach discipline, concentration and time management. Therefore, completely replacing academic lessons with recreational activities would not be a sensible approach.

However, I believe that excessive emphasis on formal education can negatively affect young children. Spending long hours completing assignments, preparing for tests and memorising information may create unnecessary academic pressure and reduce their natural curiosity. Moreover, children need opportunities to interact with their peers and develop social and practical skills that cannot always be acquired from textbooks. For instance, activities such as group projects and outdoor games can teach cooperation, communication and problem-solving in a more engaging way.

Play is therefore equally important in primary education. Physical activities help children remain healthy and energetic, while imaginative games encourage creativity and independence. Playing with others also enables children to learn how to share, negotiate and resolve conflicts. For example, team sports can naturally develop qualities such as leadership, cooperation and respect for others. Such experiences contribute to a child’s emotional and social development alongside their academic progress.

In conclusion, although formal learning is necessary for building a strong academic foundation, primary schools should not allow it to dominate children’s education. In my view, combining structured lessons with sufficient time for play is the most effective way to support children’s intellectual, physical and social 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. Each paragraph is well-developed with relevant arguments and supporting examples, such as the mention of 'group projects' and 'team sports' to illustrate the benefits of play. The ideas are logically extended, and the balance between formal learning and play is explored in depth, meeting all requirements of the task effectively.

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 'In addition', 'Moreover', 'For instance', and 'In conclusion', which help guide the reader through your argument. The paragraphing is appropriate, and the relationship between ideas is clear throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for an academic context. Phrases such as 'considerable emphasis', 'fundamental skills', 'natural curiosity', and 'intellectual, physical and social development' show a level of precision and flexibility. The vocabulary is used naturally and accurately, contributing to the clarity of your arguments. There are no significant errors in word choice or collocation, and the language used is sophisticated enough to support a high band score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses (e.g., 'While I largely agree that...', 'Although formal learning is necessary...'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense usage is excellent. The writing is fluent and precise, with no grammatical slips that impede communication. The structure is varied, which keeps the reader engaged and demonstrates a high level of grammatical competence.

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

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