Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-26

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)

Primary education plays a vital role in shaping a child's future. While academic learning is essential, some people believe that primary schools place too much emphasis on formal education and neglect the importance of play. I largely agree with this opinion because young children learn most effectively when education is combined with enjoyable activities.

On the one hand, formal learning provides children with fundamental knowledge and skills. Subjects such as mathematics, science, and languages help students develop logical thinking, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities. A well-structured curriculum also prepares children for higher levels of education. Therefore, schools should ensure that pupils build a strong academic foundation during their early years.

However, focusing exclusively on academic achievement may place unnecessary pressure on young learners. Children have shorter attention spans than adults and often learn more effectively through creative and interactive activities. Educational games, group projects, and role-playing not only make lessons more enjoyable but also encourage teamwork, creativity, and self-confidence. For example, children who participate in classroom games often improve their communication and social skills while remaining actively engaged in learning.

In my opinion, play is just as important as formal education in primary schools. Through play, children develop emotional intelligence, imagination, and the ability to solve problems independently. Outdoor activities and classroom games also improve physical health and reduce stress, allowing children to return to academic tasks with greater concentration. Consequently, a balanced approach that combines structured lessons with play-based learning is likely to produce better educational outcomes.

In conclusion, although formal learning is necessary for academic development, primary schools should not overlook the value of play. A healthy balance between learning and enjoyable activities helps children develop intellectually, socially, and emotionally, preparing them for future success.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the two-part prompt. The writer clearly states a position ('I largely agree with this opinion') in the introduction and maintains it throughout the essay. The first body paragraph explores the necessity of formal learning, while the third body paragraph examines why play is crucial for young learners, directly addressing how important play is in the primary school classroom. The ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant explanations and examples, such as 'educational games, group projects, and role-playing.' The response successfully meets all requirements of the task, demonstrating a strong understanding of both academic and developmental aspects of primary education.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Ideas are logically sequenced, moving smoothly from an introduction of the topic and the writer's stance, to the benefits of formal learning, the drawbacks of excessive academic pressure, the importance of play, and finally a concise conclusion. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct central theme. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'On the one hand,' 'However,' and 'Consequently,' ensuring that relationships between ideas are clear. Referencing throughout the essay is clear, contributing to a seamless reading experience.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary with good flexibility and precision, well-suited to an academic discussion on education. Less common lexical items are used appropriately, such as 'fundamental knowledge,' 'logical thinking,' 'exclusive on academic achievement,' and 'emotional intelligence.' Collocations are generally natural, and there are very few lexical errors. Word choice is accurate, allowing the writer to convey precise meanings regarding child development and educational approaches. While it does not reach the highest level of sophisticated and rare vocabulary usage, the lexical resource is entirely adequate for a Band 7.0 performance.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response features a good variety of complex structures used accurately throughout. The writer successfully employs conditional and subordinate clauses, such as 'While academic learning is essential, some people believe...' and 'For example, children who participate in classroom games often improve...'. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the few minor errors that might occur are absent here, showcasing strong grammatical control and accurate punctuation. Verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and article usage are well-managed across the entire text, supporting clear and fluent communication.

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