Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-09-08

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

It is important for children, young adults, working people and the retired to have at least one hobby.

What's your opinion about this?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 8.0)

It is often argued that people of all ages, from children to retirees, should have at least one hobby. I strongly agree with this view because hobbies provide valuable opportunities for relaxation, personal development and social interaction, regardless of a person’s stage of life.

For children and young adults, having a hobby can play a crucial role in their overall development. Activities such as playing a musical instrument, painting or participating in sports help young people develop discipline, creativity and perseverance. Moreover, hobbies provide a constructive alternative to excessive screen time and can help children discover their talents and interests. For example, a child who regularly plays football may not only improve physical fitness but also learn important qualities such as teamwork, leadership and resilience.

Similarly, hobbies can be particularly beneficial for working adults, whose lives are often dominated by professional responsibilities. Engaging in activities such as gardening, cooking or photography can provide a much-needed mental break from workplace pressures. In addition to reducing stress, pursuing an interest outside work can create a healthier work-life balance and prevent occupational burnout. For instance, an employee who spends an hour painting after work may return to professional duties feeling more refreshed.

Retired people can also derive substantial benefits from maintaining a hobby. After leaving the workforce, some individuals may experience loneliness or a loss of purpose. Hobbies can provide structure to their daily routines while keeping them mentally and socially active. Joining a book club, volunteering or learning a new language, for example, can help retirees maintain social connections.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that everyone should have at least one hobby. Although the specific activity may vary according to age and circumstances, hobbies contribute significantly to emotional well-being and personal growth, making them an essential part of a balanced and fulfilling life.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly stated your position in the introduction and maintained it throughout the essay. Each paragraph is dedicated to a specific demographic—children, working adults, and retirees—which ensures a comprehensive coverage of the topic. The ideas are well-developed with relevant examples, such as the mention of football for children and gardening or photography for adults. The argument is logical and persuasive, demonstrating a clear understanding of the task requirements. You have successfully balanced the different age groups while providing a cohesive argument for the importance of hobbies in general.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic sentence that guides the reader through your argument. You have used a variety of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'Moreover', 'Similarly', 'In addition to', and 'In conclusion', which help to connect your points smoothly. Paragraphing is used appropriately, with each distinct group receiving its own section. The transition between the different life stages is seamless, and the overall structure of the essay is highly coherent, making it very easy to follow your line of reasoning.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You have demonstrated a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for the task. Phrases like 'occupational burnout', 'professional responsibilities', and 'constructive alternative' show a level of sophistication. The vocabulary is used accurately and naturally throughout the text. While the range is sufficient and precise, incorporating a few more idiomatic expressions or more nuanced collocations could elevate the response further. However, the current level is more than adequate for a high band score, as there are no significant errors in word choice or collocation that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and varied clause types. Your control over grammar is strong, with the majority of sentences being error-free. Punctuation is used correctly to manage the flow of your arguments. You have successfully used conditional structures and participial phrases to add complexity to your writing. There are no noticeable grammatical errors that distract the reader or affect the clarity of your message. The accuracy is consistent throughout the entire piece, reflecting a high level of proficiency.

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