Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 21 · 2026-09-29

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)

There is a growing belief that primary schools place too much emphasis on formal education and do not provide children with enough opportunities to play. Although academic learning is essential for children’s development, I partly agree that schools should give greater importance to play. In my opinion, a balance between formal learning and recreational activities is the most effective approach for young children.

On the one hand, formal learning is extremely important in primary school because it provides children with the basic knowledge and skills they need for their future education. Subjects such as mathematics, science, reading and writing help children develop their intellectual abilities. For example, children who learn basic mathematics at an early age can use these skills in everyday situations and later study more complex subjects. Similarly, developing good reading and writing skills allows students to communicate effectively and understand information. Therefore, schools cannot ignore formal education simply because children are young.

On the other hand, playing is also an important part of a child’s development. Spending too much time sitting in a classroom and completing academic tasks can make young students tired and less interested in learning. Through games, children can develop social skills, creativity and problem-solving abilities. For instance, when children play team games, they learn how to cooperate with others, follow rules and communicate with their classmates. Physical games can also encourage children to be active and develop their coordination. Therefore, play should not be considered a waste of time, as it can contribute to several important areas of development.

Furthermore, playing can sometimes be combined with formal education. Teachers can use educational games, group activities and practical exercises to make lessons more enjoyable and effective. For example, mathematics can be taught through counting games, while language lessons can include storytelling or role-playing activities. Such methods may help children understand difficult concepts while keeping them interested in the lesson. As a result, learning does not always have to mean sitting quietly and memorising information.

In conclusion, I partly agree that primary schools may focus too heavily on formal learning. Academic subjects are necessary for children’s future education, but play is equally valuable for their social, physical and creative development. Therefore, primary schools should maintain a healthy balance between formal education and play rather than concentrating exclusively on academic achievement.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the two-part prompt by discussing the extent of agreement regarding formal learning in primary schools and explaining the importance of play alongside learning. The writer establishes a clear position in the introduction ('I partly agree that schools should give greater importance to play') and maintains this stance throughout the essay. Ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant explanations and examples, such as the discussion on team games and combining play with educational tasks in paragraph four. The response meets all task requirements effectively, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the prompt.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 7.5

The essay displays a clear logical organization and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, with appropriate transitional markers such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'Furthermore' guiding the reader smoothly between ideas. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly without being mechanical. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, separating the introduction, distinct body arguments regarding formal learning, play, and combined methods, and a concise conclusion.

Lexical Resource: Band 7.0

The writer uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with flexibility and precision appropriate for an academic response. Less common items such as 'intellectual abilities', 'cooperate', 'coordination', and 'memorising information' are employed naturally. There is good awareness of collocation and style, and spelling is accurate throughout. While the lexical range is strong and entirely adequate for the task, it occasionally relies on standard academic phrases rather than highly sophisticated or nuanced idiomatic expressions, which is entirely consistent with a solid Band 7.5 performance.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.5

The response features a wide variety of complex sentence structures, including conditional or concessive clauses ('Although academic learning is essential...', 'when children play team games...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and the writer demonstrates good control of grammar and punctuation. There are only very occasional minor slips, but these never impede communication. Complex structures are handled with confidence and accuracy, fully supporting the flow and clarity of the argument.

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