Band 5.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 5.0 · 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 5.0)
In recent years, many individuals argue that primary schools are giving more importance to formal learning modules while other believe that they should focus more on playing. This essay will discuss this topic in detail before giving an opinion.
On the one hand, Formal learning undoubtedly significant for the development of the children on early stage of their life. This develop fundamental skills such as reading, writing and mathematics knowledge which provides foundation for their future education. Providing basic understanding of
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 4.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 5.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 5.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 5.0 |
| Overall | 5.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 4.0
The response is significantly under the required 250-word minimum, reaching only 81 words. Because the essay is incomplete, it fails to address the prompt's requirements. The introduction is present, but the body paragraphs are cut off mid-sentence, meaning the position is not fully developed, and the second part of the prompt regarding the importance of play is not addressed at all. To improve, you must ensure you complete all parts of the task and meet the minimum word count to allow for a full exploration of your ideas.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.0
The text shows a basic attempt at logical organization with an introduction and a partial body paragraph. However, because the response is incomplete, there is no overall progression of ideas. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand' are used, but the abrupt ending prevents the development of a coherent argument. To improve, focus on structuring your essay with clear topic sentences and supporting details that lead to a logical conclusion, ensuring the entire response is completed within the time limit.
Lexical Resource — Band 5.0
The vocabulary used is generally appropriate for the topic, such as 'formal learning modules' and 'fundamental skills'. However, the range is limited due to the brevity of the text. There are minor errors, such as 'on early stage' (should be 'at an early stage') and 'This develop' (should be 'This develops'). To achieve a higher band, you need to demonstrate a wider range of vocabulary and use it with greater precision, while also ensuring grammatical accuracy in your word choices.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0
The response contains a mix of simple and some attempted complex structures. However, there are noticeable grammatical errors that affect the flow, such as 'Formal learning undoubtedly significant' (missing the verb 'is') and 'This develop' (subject-verb agreement error). The incomplete nature of the sentences makes it difficult to assess your full range of grammatical control. To improve, focus on subject-verb agreement and ensure that every sentence has a clear subject and a correctly conjugated verb.
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.