Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · 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 7.0)

Some people believe that primary schools place too much emphasis on formal learning. Although formal learning has a profound impact on children's literacy and numeracy, primary schools should not devote excessive attention to this approach. I believe that play is equally significant, as it contributes to children's overall development.

There is no doubt that formal learning instills in pupils some essential qualities, such as self-discipline and a sense of responsibility. Because they are expected to complete homework regularly, meet deadlines, and prepare for assessments, they gradually develop self-discipline and a sense of responsibility. Furthermore, through formal learning, young people acquire fundamental academic skills such as reading, writing, and mathematics, which can play a crucial role in their further careers.

However, play should also be an integral part of primary education because it helps children develop skills that formal learning alone cannot provide. During games and creative activities, children interact with their peers and exchange ideas. They may even disagree with one another, which encourages them to express their opinions and resolve conflicts peacefully. By going through these challenges, children enhance their problem-solving and quick decision-making abilities. Moreover, play promotes children's imagination. When pupils engage in arts and crafts activities, they use their creativity in order to present extraordinary ideas. Such activities allow children to express their thoughts and creativity freely. As a result, such children are more likely to become innovative thinkers and successful entrepreneurs in adulthood.

In conclusion, although formal learning provides children with essential academic skills, I believe it should be balanced with play-based activities, as both contribute to children's overall development.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the two-part prompt. In the introduction, the writer establishes a clear position agreeing that formal learning should not be excessive and that play is equally significant. The first body paragraph covers the merits of formal learning, detailing how it instills self-discipline and responsibility through homework and assessments. The second body paragraph thoroughly addresses the second question regarding the importance of play, extending ideas by explaining how games and creative activities foster conflict resolution, quick decision-making, and imagination. Examples such as arts and crafts are provided to support these claims, leading to a well-developed and cohesive argument. The response easily meets the requirements of Band 7 and exhibits many features of Band 8, as all parts of the task are well covered with relevant and fully extended ideas.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from the introduction to the benefits of formal learning, the importance of play, and finally a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally without being mechanical, as seen with phrases like 'Furthermore', 'However', and 'As a result'. Paragraphing is managed appropriately, and referencing throughout the text is clear, ensuring that the reader can easily follow the progression of the writer's arguments. This performance aligns comfortably with Band 7.5 descriptors, as the overall structure is coherent and the flow of ideas is well maintained from start to finish.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient and flexible range of vocabulary suited to an academic discussion. Less common lexical items are used with good awareness of style and collocation, such as 'profound impact', 'excessive attention', 'fundamental academic skills', and 'innovative thinkers'. Word choice is generally precise, although there are minor instances of repetition, such as the frequent use of the word 'children'. Spelling and word formation are entirely accurate throughout the response. The lexical control and variety shown here demonstrate solid Band 7 competence, successfully conveying precise meanings without any interference to communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The response features a wide variety of complex structures deployed with a high degree of accuracy. The writer successfully incorporates conditional and transitional subordinate clauses, such as 'Although formal learning has a profound impact...' and 'When pupils engage in arts and crafts activities, they use their creativity...'. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the few complex structures attempted are well-controlled, with correct punctuation and agreement throughout. Grammatical accuracy is very strong, matching the Band 8 descriptor where a wide range of structures is used flexibly and the majority of sentences are completely free of errors.

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