Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-15

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 6.5)

It is well known that primary school is the first step in children's formal education. However, modern education sometimes focuses too much on exercises and examinations. Students may spend the entire day studying while gradually losing their curiosity and enjoyment. Does this really mean effective learning? Should education only take place with blackboards and written exercises? The answer is definitely no.

Many geniuses and famous figures we learn about in textbooks did not develop their abilities through rigid learning alone. Although some people may argue that these historical figures lived in a different time, I believe that forcing every student to follow the same learning method may limit creativity and individual talent. Therefore, schools should provide more flexible ways of learning.

One possible method is the reversed classroom, in which students occasionally take the role of the teacher. For example, once a month, one or two students could lead part of a lesson and explain a topic to their classmates. This could improve their communication and independent-thinking skills. Meanwhile, teachers could better understand how students think and improve their teaching methods.

Practical learning is also important, especially in subjects such as chemistry and physics. Instead of simply memorising theories, students can conduct experiments, test their ideas and solve problems in different ways. This allows them to learn through experience and may increase their interest in the subject.

In conclusion, education should not be limited to one traditional method. Formal study is necessary, but practical activities, exploration and creativity are equally valuable parts of effective learning.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The student addresses both parts of the prompt well, discussing the extent to which primary schools focus too much on formal learning and evaluating the importance of play and alternative learning methods. A clear position is established in the introduction and maintained throughout the essay. Ideas are extended and supported with relevant examples, such as the reversed classroom concept and practical learning in subjects like chemistry and physics. However, some arguments could be explored in slightly greater depth to reach the highest band, placing the response firmly at a Band 7 level where all parts are addressed with clear reasoning and appropriate support.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay displays clear logical organisation and a smooth progression of ideas from introduction to conclusion. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with the critique of formal learning, moving to flexible methods and practical learning, and wrapping up effectively. Cohesive devices are used appropriately without being overly mechanical, as seen with transitions like 'However', 'Therefore', and 'Meanwhile'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring the reader can easily follow the student's line of argument throughout the response.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary that allows for some flexibility and precision. Words and phrases such as 'curiosity and enjoyment', 'rigid learning', 'independent-thinking skills', and 'memorising theories' are used accurately. There are also successful attempts to use less common items and collocations with good control. Spelling and word choice are generally accurate throughout the essay, with only minor limitations that do not impede communication, justifying a solid Band 7 score for lexical resource.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The response features a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including conditional-like clauses ('Instead of simply memorising theories, students can conduct...') and rhetorical questions. There is good control of grammar and punctuation, and the majority of sentences are error-free. Complex structures are generally handled well, and grammatical errors are virtually absent, allowing for smooth and natural reading. The control demonstrated over a variety of sentence forms aligns well with the Band 7 descriptor.

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

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