Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-28

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 and that children should have more opportunities to play. I largely agree with this view because, although academic education is essential, play also contributes significantly to children’s social, emotional and physical development.

On the one hand, formal learning is an important part of primary education. Children need to develop basic skills such as reading, writing and mathematics at an early age because these abilities provide the foundation for their future education. In addition, classroom activities can teach children how to concentrate, follow instructions and complete tasks independently. Without sufficient academic study, some children may struggle when they progress to secondary school. Therefore, formal education should remain a major part of the primary school curriculum.

On the other hand, I believe that children should have enough time to play because learning is not limited to traditional classroom activities. Through games and group activities, children can develop communication skills, creativity and the ability to cooperate with others. Physical play is also important because it helps children remain active and can improve their overall health. For example, when children participate in team sports, they learn how to share, solve disagreements and work towards a common goal. These skills are difficult to develop through textbooks and examinations alone.

In my view, primary schools should therefore aim for a sensible balance between formal education and play. Teachers could combine academic lessons with educational games, outdoor activities and group projects. This would allow children to learn important academic concepts while also enjoying school and developing essential life skills.

In conclusion, formal learning is necessary for children’s academic progress, but excessive classroom-based study can limit other aspects of their development. Giving children regular opportunities to play alongside their studies would create a more balanced and effective primary education.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the two-part prompt. The student clearly states their position in the introduction ("I largely agree with this view") and maintains it throughout the essay. Both aspects of the prompt—whether formal learning is overemphasised and how important play is—are thoroughly explored. In the body paragraphs, the writer examines the necessity of formal education for foundational skills before balancing this with the developmental benefits of play, such as communication and cooperation. Ideas are well-extended and supported with relevant examples like team sports, demonstrating a fully developed argument that meets all Band 7 and Band 8 descriptors for Task Achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.0

The essay displays clear logical organisation and a smooth progression of ideas from start to finish. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, beginning with a clear introduction, moving through balanced arguments in the body, and ending with a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices such as "On the one hand", "On the other hand", "In my view", and "In conclusion" are used effectively to guide the reader through the writer’s line of reasoning. Referencing is clear and paragraphing is managed appropriately. The structure is robust, satisfying all criteria for a Band 7.5 performance.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The vocabulary used is more than adequate for the task, demonstrating a good range with some flexibility and precision. The student successfully integrates less common lexical items and collocations appropriate for an academic discussion, such as "formal learning", "foundational skills", "excessive classroom-based study", and "sensible balance". Word choice is generally natural and precise, though it occasionally relies on standard academic phrasing rather than highly sophisticated or nuanced terminology. Spelling and word formation are entirely accurate throughout, supporting smooth communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The writer demonstrates a very strong command of grammar and sentence structure. There is a healthy mix of complex and compound sentences used accurately to convey nuanced arguments, such as conditional and concessive clauses ("when children participate in team sports, they learn how to share..." and "although academic education is essential, play also contributes..."). The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled correctly throughout the text. The control of grammar is consistent, easily reaching the standard required for a Band 8.

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

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