Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · 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 6.5)

It is often argued that primary schools place too much emphasis on formal education and do not give children enough time to play. I partly agree with this view because academic learning is essential for children, but playing is also important for their physical and social development.

Firstly, formal learning plays an important role in a child’s early education. At primary school, children learn basic subjects such as reading, writing and mathematics, which provide a strong foundation for their future studies. For example, children who develop good reading and mathematical skills at an early age can understand more difficult subjects as they progress to higher classes. Therefore, schools should give sufficient time to academic learning so that children can build essential knowledge and skills.

However, I believe that too much formal learning can have negative effects on young children. If students spend most of their school hours sitting in classrooms and completing exercises, they may become tired and lose interest in education. In contrast, playing can make learning more enjoyable and help children develop other important abilities. For instance, when children play football or participate in team games, they improve their physical fitness and learn how to cooperate and communicate with others. As a result, play can support both their physical and social development.

In my opinion, the best approach is to maintain a balance between formal learning and play. Schools should not completely reduce academic lessons, but they should also provide regular opportunities for children to play and take part in creative activities. For example, teachers could use educational games, group activities and outdoor exercises as part of the school timetable. This could make children more active and motivated while they are learning.

In conclusion, formal education is necessary for primary school children, but excessive academic pressure can be harmful. I believe that schools should create a balanced environment where children have enough time to study as well as play, because both activities are important for their overall development.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the two-part prompt. The writer clearly states a position in the introduction, agreeing partly with the premise while arguing that both formal learning and play are crucial. Both aspects of the prompt—whether schools focus too much on formal learning, and how important play is—are well supported with relevant arguments and examples, such as mentioning basic subjects like reading and mathematics, and physical activities like football. The ideas are extended and well-developed throughout the essay, demonstrating a clear understanding of the task requirements. This performance aligns comfortably with the Band 7 descriptor.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay presents a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with an introductory stance, followed by body paragraphs addressing formal learning, the benefits of play, and a practical synthesis. Cohesive devices such as 'Firstly', 'However', 'In contrast', and 'In conclusion' are used effectively to guide the reader through the argument. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately. While referencing and cohesion are generally clear and natural, the use of transition markers is occasionally somewhat standard, fitting well into the Band 7 criteria.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates an adequate to sufficient range of vocabulary for the task. Words and phrases such as 'emphasis', 'essential', 'foundation', 'cooperate', and 'overall development' are used accurately. There are attempts to use less common items like 'excessive academic pressure' and 'motivated'. While the lexical selection is clear and communicates the intended meaning well, it lacks the broader flexibility, precision, and sophisticated control of uncommon lexical items required for a Band 8. Minor word choices remain somewhat standard, placing this firmly at Band 7.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The writer produces a good mix of simple and complex sentence forms, with frequent error-free sentences. Complex structures are handled reasonably well, as seen in conditional or participial clauses such as 'For example, children who develop good reading and mathematical skills at an early age can understand more difficult subjects...' Control of grammar and punctuation is generally good, and minor errors are absent or do not impede communication. The range of structures is sufficient for a Band 7, though it stops short of the wide range and majority error-free control characteristic of a Band 8.

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