Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-09

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 8.0)

Many people believe that primary schools place too much emphasis on formal lessons such as reading and mathematics. I agree to some extent, as I believe that although academic subjects are essential, play should also constitute an integral part of young children's education.

It is true that schools need to teach children fundamental academic skills. Students must learn to read, write and perform basic calculations because these abilities are indispensable for their future education and employment. Without a solid foundation in these areas, children may struggle academically as they progress through school. For this reason, educational institutions devote a considerable amount of time to formal learning.

However, I believe that primary schools can place excessive emphasis on sitting at desks and completing tests. Young children are naturally energetic and tend to learn more effectively through interactive activities. If they are required to study from textbooks for prolonged periods, they may become bored, stressed and gradually lose their enthusiasm for learning. In contrast, incorporating play into the school day can help children remain engaged and enjoy the learning process.

Play is a particularly significant component of primary education because it facilitates children's development in various ways. Through educational games, children can learn how to share, collaborate with others and solve problems independently. For instance, when children build structures with blocks, they can develop an understanding of shapes while simultaneously stimulating their creativity. Similarly, role-playing activities can enhance their communication and interpersonal skills. Furthermore, physical play contributes to children's overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, although formal education is undoubtedly necessary, I agree that primary schools sometimes place excessive emphasis on academic lessons. Play should therefore be an integral part of every school day, as it enables children to develop social skills, maintain their enthusiasm for learning and foster creativity. Ultimately, striking an appropriate balance between academic instruction and play is the most beneficial approach for young learners.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

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 academic foundations and the benefits of play are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as building with blocks and role-playing. The ideas are extended logically, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes your main points. You have met all requirements of the task, providing a balanced perspective that directly answers the 'to what extent' and 'how important' components of the question.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

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 benefits of play is smooth. You use a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'In contrast', 'For instance', and 'Furthermore', which help guide the reader through your argument. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct ideas, and referencing is clear throughout the text. The structure is coherent and professional, making the essay very easy to follow.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for an academic context. Phrases like 'constitute an integral part', 'indispensable for their future', and 'facilitates children's development' show a level of sophistication beyond basic language. The word choices are precise and collocations are generally natural. While the vocabulary is effective and accurate, it could be slightly more ambitious to reach the highest band, but it is certainly sufficient to convey your ideas with precision and clarity throughout the response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a high level of grammatical control. You use a variety of complex sentence structures, such as conditional sentences ('If they are required to study...') and subordinate clauses ('Although academic subjects are essential...'), with very few errors. Punctuation is accurate, and the majority of your sentences are error-free. The grammar is flexible and supports the clear expression of your ideas. There are no significant errors that impede communication, and the overall quality of the writing is consistent with a high level of proficiency.

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