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

In some parts of the world, people buy far too many clothes.

What are the reasons for this?
How can people be persuaded to reduce the number of clothes they buy?

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

Student answer (Band 6.5)

In the contemporary era, it is often seen that people buy more clothes than they actually need. This is mainly because clothes are produced in large quantities and fashion trends change frequently. However, people can be encouraged to buy fewer clothes by teaching them about the importance of managing their money.

To begin with, one of the main reasons for buying too many clothes is that they are produced in large quantities. The materials used to make clothes are relatively cheap, so companies can produce a large number of items and sell them at low prices. As a result, people may buy clothes in bulk because they think they are getting a good deal. Another reason is that fashion trends change regularly. Many people follow actors, celebrities and other famous people on social media. They may want to wear similar clothes to their favourite celebrities and therefore buy new outfits even when they already have enough clothes.

Nevertheless, people can be persuaded to reduce their clothing purchases by learning about financial management. They should understand the difference between things they need and things they simply want. This can make them think carefully before buying new clothes and reduce unnecessary spending. For example, instead of spending money on clothes that they may only wear a few times, people can save it for future needs or unexpected situations. They could also use their savings for important expenses, such as education, a house or medical treatment.

In conclusion, people buy too many clothes mainly because they are cheap and fashion trends change quickly. However, teaching people how to manage their money and avoid unnecessary spending can encourage them to buy only the clothes they really need.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response successfully addresses all parts of the prompt, investigating both the reasons behind excessive clothing purchases and offering actionable solutions. In the second paragraph, the student explores the causes thoroughly, citing cheap mass production and rapidly shifting fashion trends fueled by social media influence. Furthermore, the third paragraph provides a logical solution, focusing on financial education and mindful consumption. The position is clear throughout, and the ideas are well-supported with relevant examples, such as prioritizing savings for education or housing over temporary clothing trends. This fully meets the criteria for Band 7, as all parts of the task are addressed and supported, although the solutions could have been slightly more multifaceted to reach the highest bands.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The response features a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving smoothly from an introduction to causes, then solutions, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'To begin with', 'Another reason is', and 'Nevertheless', which guide the reader effortlessly through the text. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each body paragraph dedicated to one half of the prompt's main questions. Referencing is clear, ensuring that pronouns and demonstratives point accurately to previously mentioned ideas, fitting the requirements of Band 7 well.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary for the task, allowing for some flexibility and precision. Phrases such as 'contemporary era', 'mass production' implied through 'produced in large quantities', and 'financial management' show an ability to use less common lexical items. There is good collocation control, such as 'fashion trends change regularly' and 'unexpected situations'. While the vocabulary is generally precise and appropriate, it lacks the broader flexibility and mastery of highly sophisticated, uncommon idiom or collocation required to push into the Band 8 territory. Spelling and word choice are accurate throughout.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The essay displays a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, yielding frequent error-free sentences. Examples of complex structures include 'As a result, people may buy clothes in bulk because they think they are getting a good deal' and 'instead of spending money on clothes that they may only wear a few times, people can save it for future needs'. Grammar and punctuation are under very good control, and there are no noticeable slips or errors that impede communication. The control demonstrated over complex dependent clauses easily secures a Band 7.

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