Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 17 · 2026-09-07

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Nowadays, a growing number of people with health problems are trying alternative medicines and treatments instead of visiting their usual doctor.

Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?

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

Student answer (Band 6.5)

It is undeniable that in recent years, an increasing number of ill people prefer alternative medicines and treatments over conventional medical treatments. This trend may have some positive sides but they are insignificant compared to its negative side. Therefore, I strongly believe that it is a negative development, determine effects, and will outline in upcoming fragments with a logical conclusion.

To commence with, alternative medicines and treatments are often not backed by scientific evidence. Many of these treatments are based on ancient practices or anecdotal evidence, and therefore their effectiveness and safety are not guaranteed. Patients who opt for such treatments risk their health and well-being by avoiding treatments that are proven to work. For instance, some people who opt for alternative medicines for chronic illnesses like cancer may put their health at risk.

Moreover, the use of alternative medicines can result in delays in receiving proper medical care. In some cases, patients choose to forego or delay necessary medical treatments in favor of alternative options, which can result in the progression of their illness or condition. This can lead to complications, higher medical costs, and even death in severe cases. An example of the negative impact of relying solely on alternative medicines is the case of Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc. Jobs was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He initially chose to rely on alternative medicine and delayed conventional medical treatment. By the time he eventually sought medical intervention, it was too late.

In conclusion while use of this medicines and treatments may seem like an appealing option for some and, its popularity is increasing, it is ultimately a negative development. It is therefore essential to educate the public on the risks associated with alternative treatments and to prioritize the use of evidence-based medical treatments.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response clearly addresses the prompt by taking a firm stance that the trend is negative. The position is maintained throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, particularly the point regarding the lack of scientific evidence and the potential for delayed medical intervention. The use of the Steve Jobs example provides a concrete and relevant illustration that strengthens the argument. The essay covers all parts of the task effectively, and the arguments are logically extended. The introduction is slightly awkward in its phrasing, specifically the phrase 'determine effects, and will outline in upcoming fragments', but the overall task response is strong and focused.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central topic, and the progression of ideas is easy to follow. Cohesive devices such as 'To commence with', 'Moreover', and 'In conclusion' are used effectively to link ideas. However, there are minor issues with punctuation and flow, such as the missing comma after 'In conclusion' and the slightly awkward phrasing in the introduction. Despite these minor mechanical issues, the paragraphing is appropriate and the logical flow is consistent throughout the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary is generally appropriate and sufficient for the task. The student uses terms like 'anecdotal evidence', 'chronic illnesses', and 'medical intervention' correctly. There are some minor errors in word choice, such as 'use of this medicines' (should be 'these') and the slightly unnatural phrasing 'upcoming fragments'. While the range is adequate to convey the argument precisely, it lacks the sophisticated, idiomatic control required for a higher band. The vocabulary is functional and clear, but could be more varied to demonstrate a wider range of lexical flexibility.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The student demonstrates a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There is good control over basic grammar, and the meaning is always clear. However, there are occasional errors, such as 'use of this medicines' (plural/singular agreement) and the awkward construction in the introduction. Punctuation is generally functional, though some commas are missing, such as after introductory phrases. The majority of the sentences are error-free, but the presence of these minor errors prevents the essay from reaching the higher bands where error-free complex structures are more consistent.

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