Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-24

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 7.5)

Some people believe that primary schools place too much emphasis on formal learning. I partly agree with this view, because children need time to play as well as study, but I believe formal lessons still have an important place.

On the one hand, an overly academic timetable can harm young children. Pupils of five to eleven have limited concentration spans, and long periods of sitting at desks can leave them tired and unmotivated. Play, by contrast, develops skills that textbooks cannot teach. When children build with blocks or act out a story, they learn to cooperate, negotiate and solve problems. Finland is a well-known example: children there start formal schooling at seven, and the country still achieves excellent educational results.

On the other hand, formal learning cannot be neglected. Primary school is where children acquire basic literacy and numeracy, and without these foundations they will struggle throughout their education. Structured lessons also teach discipline and respect for routine, which prepares children for secondary school.

In my opinion, play is just as important as formal study in the primary classroom, and the two work best when combined. Play-based learning, such as counting games in maths or role-play in language lessons, keeps children engaged while they absorb the curriculum. From my own experience, the lessons I remember best from childhood were the ones that involved activities rather than only listening to the teacher.

In conclusion, schools should not rely too heavily on formal instruction. A balanced approach that uses play to support academic learning is the most effective way to educate young children.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.0

The response addresses all parts of the two-part prompt directly and effectively. The student presents a clear position right from the introduction ("I partly agree with this view") and maintains it throughout the essay. The first body paragraph successfully explores the drawbacks of overly formal learning and the value of play, citing the real-world example of Finland. The second body paragraph acknowledges the necessity of basic literacy, numeracy, and routine. Furthermore, the fourth paragraph answers the second part of the prompt by explaining how play and formal learning can be combined ("counting games in maths or role-play"). Ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples and personal experience, earning a strong Band 7.5.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay displays clear logical organisation and a smooth progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving logically from the introduction to arguments against over-formalisation, arguments for formal learning, the integration of play and study, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices such as "On the one hand," "On the other hand," and "In conclusion" are used effectively to guide the reader through the writer's argument. Referencing and substitution are handled smoothly, and paragraphing is appropriate and purposeful. The flow of ideas is natural, meeting all criteria for a high band score.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.0

The student demonstrates a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary for the task, successfully incorporating less common lexical items and collocations. Examples such as "overly academic timetable," "limited concentration spans," "acquire basic literacy and numeracy," and "play-based learning" highlight a good command of topic-specific language. Word choice is generally precise, and the writing flows naturally without noticeable awkwardness. Spelling and word formation are completely accurate throughout the response, showing a reliable control of vocabulary.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The essay utilises a good variety of complex structures alongside accurate simple sentences, demonstrating strong control of grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include conditional and participial integration, such as "When children build with blocks or act out a story, they learn to cooperate..." and "A balanced approach that uses play to support academic learning is the most effective way...". The majority of sentences are error-free, and any minor slips are entirely absent. Punctuation is used correctly to demarcate clauses and lists, supporting clear and precise communication of ideas.

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