Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 20 · 2026-09-12

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Write about the following topic:

In many countries, family members work together in their family business.

Do you think family businesses have more advantages than disadvantages?

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

Student answer (Band 6.5)

In numerous societies, it is common for relatives to work collectively in enterprises owned and operated by their family. Although such businesses can create certain challenges, I believe their advantages are considerably greater, particularly in terms of trust, continuity and financial stability.

One major benefit of a family-run business is the high level of trust among employees. Since relatives usually have a strong personal connection, they are more likely to support one another and remain committed during difficult periods. Moreover, family members often have a shared interest in the long-term success of the company; therefore, they may be willing to work longer hours or accept lower profits when necessary. Additionally, younger generations can gradually acquire valuable knowledge and practical skills from older relatives. Hence, the business can preserve its expertise and reputation over several generations.

Nevertheless, there are some disadvantages. Family relationships may become strained when disagreements arise over financial decisions or the direction of the company. While professional businesses can often resolve conflicts through formal procedures, family enterprises may allow personal emotions to influence important decisions. Furthermore, nepotism can occur if relatives are given senior positions despite lacking suitable qualifications. Although this can reduce efficiency, it can be prevented through clear responsibilities and professional management.

In my view, the benefits ultimately outweigh the drawbacks. For example, many successful restaurants and retail companies remain profitable because family members combine their skills and share responsibility. Therefore, provided that personal relationships are kept separate from business decisions, family enterprises can be both financially successful and highly sustainable.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of family businesses and clearly stating a position in the introduction that the advantages are greater. The position is maintained throughout the essay. Ideas are well developed and supported with relevant explanations and examples, such as trust, continuity, financial stability, and potential challenges like nepotism and strained relationships. The response satisfies the requirements of Band 7 well, as it addresses all parts of the task with a clear position, although some ideas could be extended further to reach a higher band.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with an introduction, moving to advantages in the second paragraph, disadvantages in the third, and a balanced conclusion. Cohesive devices are used appropriately and flexibly without being overly mechanical, as seen with transition words like 'Moreover', 'Consequently', 'Nevertheless', and 'Furthermore'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, contributing to the overall coherence of the response.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow for flexibility and precision, incorporating less common lexical items such as 'nepotism', 'sustainability', 'continuity', and 'preserve its expertise'. Word choice and collocations are generally accurate, with only occasional minor awkwardness. Spelling and word formation are consistently correct, ensuring that communication is smooth and effortless for the reader, fitting comfortably within the Band 7 criteria.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writer employs a variety of complex structures with frequent error-free sentences. Examples of complex clauses include concessive clauses ('Although such businesses can create certain challenges...') and conditional structures ('provided that personal relationships are kept separate...'). Control of grammar and punctuation is good throughout the text, with only minor issues that do not impede communication at all. The grammatical range and accuracy strongly reflect the descriptors for Band 7.

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