Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-17

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)

Primary schools tend to teach students mainly through formal instruction and coursework. I largely agree with this opinion, but a slight disagreement is based on the fact that schools are now adopting need-based teaching methods and pedagogies.

Many South Asian countries, including Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, have an education system that emphasizes tangible curriculum and coursework. They follow a centuries-old syllabus, where a child entering school starts by learning an international language (English), a national language (Urdu/Hindu), and regional languages. As students progress to higher levels, new subjects such as science, maths, and social studies are added. Every subject is taught using the same method, with little to no technology. Many people in these countries believe that if their child spends time playing instead of reading subjects, they are wasting it. Understanding the psychology of a child, pedagogies that help them learn rapidly, and the teacher training required are necessary for that, which is a time- and resource-consuming process. As a result, schools continue to follow conventional formal instruction-based learning.

Despite that, nowadays countries are adopting changes to keep pace with the world. Such as, Japan's primary education system doesn't come with a syllabus for young children, but gives them freedom to learn basic skills and develop their personalities. Pakistan is also adopting this task- and activity-based learning through the effective implementation of playgroups and kindergarten sections.

I believe that it is as important for children to play as to learn in a primary school classroom. At this tender age, children have strong audio-visual processing and observational skills, which help them imitate and learn tasks quickly. Playing helps them relax and concentrate on their learning. It also keeps them healthy and helps them develop skills such as socialization, communication, and teamwork. These skills can later prove to be beneficial in their formal learning.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response successfully addresses both parts of the prompt, exploring the extent of formal learning in primary schools and evaluating the importance of play alongside learning. The writer takes a clear position, stating that they largely agree with the premise while acknowledging positive changes through need-based teaching. Ideas are extended and supported with relevant examples from regional contexts such as Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, as well as an international comparison with Japan. While the explanation of the South Asian educational context is slightly detailed, it directly supports the argument regarding traditional formal instruction. Overall, the task is well addressed, meeting the criteria for a solid Band 7.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are presented coherently, moving from an introduction and regional analysis to international shifts and a final personal conclusion. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct aspect of the prompt. Cohesive devices such as 'Despite that', 'As a result', and 'It also' are used effectively to guide the reader through the argument. Referencing is generally clear, though occasional transitional phrases could be more smoothly integrated. The logical flow is well maintained, earning a solid Band 7.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision, employing less common lexical items such as 'pedagogies', 'tangible curriculum', and 'audio-visual processing'. There is an awareness of collocation and style, although minor inaccuracies appear, such as writing '(Urdu/Hindu)' instead of 'Hindi'. Word choice is generally appropriate and effectively communicates the writer's ideas without impeding comprehension. The vocabulary deployed is adequate for discussing educational theory and practice, comfortably placing the response in the Band 7 range.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The essay contains a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as concessive clauses ('Despite that, nowadays countries are adopting changes...') and conditional or relative clauses ('...children have strong audio-visual processing and observational skills, which help them...'). The majority of sentences are grammatically sound, and punctuation is handled well. There are occasional minor slips, but these do not impede communication. The control over grammar and sentence variety demonstrates a commendable level of competence, aligning well with the descriptors for Band 7.

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