Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-19

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)

Many people believe that in the earlier stages of school too much time is spent on formal education. The aim of this essay is to explain why I do not agree with this statement, as well as focusing on the importance of playing in class.

Having a stable, rigid and formal education is really important for children, as during primary school they are experiencing one of the most sensible phase of learning. This is why a great amount of time has to be dedicated to standard learning. Considering the educational situation of nowadays' world, the number of hours used for formal learning are not enough. Teachers do not spend hours and hours on books anymore, and this has led to certain consequences. For instance, in 2026, children in Australia have the lowest scores in reading and mathematics ever registered, a fact that is rather allarming but can open to new reflections on today's education.

On the other hand, it is necessary to include playing inside the classrooms, especially for suitable learners such as children. In fact, ludic education, not only is very effective on them, but also permits to increase the students' engagement. This means that, ideally, teachers should allow some breaks, during which youngsters can express themselves through games: these games can have a specific educational objective, therefore, they can be seen as an opportunity to learn while playing. A compelling body of research suggests that playing, as a form of educational method, can rise learners' focus and attention and lowers the level of stress.

In conclusion, as far as I'm concerned, formal learning is essential in primary school, nevertheless games should included and integrated into the educational system, to create a perfect balance.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The student successfully addresses all parts of the two-part prompt. The writer clearly states their position against the idea that primary schools focus too much on formal learning, and subsequently discusses the importance of integrating play into the classroom. Ideas are supported with relevant reasoning and a specific example concerning Australian reading and mathematics scores. The stance is maintained clearly throughout the essay, and the main arguments are appropriately extended, though the example regarding Australia in 2026 is slightly unusual. Overall, the task is well-handled and meets the criteria for a Band 7.0.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The response demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are grouped logically into four paragraphs: an introduction, a body paragraph supporting formal learning, a body paragraph advocating for play, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used reasonably well, such as 'For instance', 'On the other hand', and 'In fact'. However, some transitions feel slightly mechanical, and referencing could be smoother in places. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, resulting in a cohesive flow that easily earns a Band 7.0.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates an adequate to sufficient range of vocabulary for the task. Less common lexical items and phrases are attempted, such as 'ludic education', 'compelling body of research', and 'perfect balance'. However, there are some minor lexical inaccuracies and awkward collocations, such as 'sensible phase of learning' instead of 'sensitive phase' or 'sensible stage', and 'allarming' (spelling error). Despite these occasional slips, the vocabulary is varied enough to clearly communicate complex ideas, fitting comfortably into the Band 6.5 or 7.0 descriptor. A score of 6.5 is awarded to reflect the occasional inappropriate word choices.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The writer uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including conditional and relative clauses ('This means that, ideally, teachers should allow...'). There are, however, several grammatical errors and awkward structures throughout the text. For example, 'the number of hours used for formal learning are not enough' (subject-verb agreement error with 'number'), 'ludic education, not only is very effective on them, but also permits to increase' (unnatural phrasing and comma splices), and 'games should included' (missing auxiliary verb). While these errors do not impede overall communication, they occur frequently enough to prevent the essay from reaching a Band 7.0.

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

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