Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-09-22

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Living in a country where you have to speak a foreign language can cause serious social problems, as well as practical problems.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

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

Student answer (Band 6.5)

A language barrier while living in a foreign country can lead to considerable amount of problems, at both personal level on a day to day basis, as well as in one's wider social interactions. I strongly agree that this disconnect can come with several issues, but the extent of its impact can be reduced by making use of modern technology.

It is very common for individuals to move to a different country in pursuit of quality education and better job opportunities despite not knowing the local language. Often the occurrence of this is mitigated by imposing strict eligibility requirements for visa applicants. Although individuals may have a basic understanding of the language they are not yet fluent. This causes friction while performing basic activities like ordering at a restaurant, opening a bank account or while commuting using public transport. Many don't have friends or even acquaintances they can reasonably rely on which can lead, to social isolation. For certain professions, particularly in healthcare sector it is an absolute essential that there is no communication gap. This can limit career opportunities as well as workplace-integration.

While these problems exist, the individual awareness of possible solutions and their effort largely determines the outcome. With access to digital solutions such as google translator or other AI softwares that can provide more precise and realtime translation, day-to-day interactions can be managed effectively. One must enroll in language tuitions which would not only help with vocabulary and fluency but also find friends in similar situtation. Successful integration requires willingness on the newcomers part to make an effort and learn. Additionally, the attitude of local people, particularly their openness and patience and willingness to welcome newcomers can significantly influence the process of social integration.

While I agree that it is a major problem, overcoming the language barrier can improve adaptability and open up wider opportunities for individuals. The initial hardship can be transformed into a valuable long-term asset through diligence and consistent effort.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, exploring both the social and practical problems caused by living with a language barrier, while taking a clear stance that agrees with the statement while introducing mitigating factors like technology. The writer presents relevant and supported ideas, such as the difficulties in healthcare professions and everyday interactions like opening a bank account. However, some arguments, such as the attitude of local people introduced in the third paragraph, shift the focus slightly away from the individual's direct experience of the language barrier, constituting a minor under-development in the overall flow of the argument. Overall, the position is well maintained and supported throughout, aligning well with the criteria for a Band 7.0.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organization and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving from an introduction and statement of agreement, to practical problems, potential solutions involving technology and learning, and finally a concluding reflection. Cohesive devices are used adequately, such as 'Although individuals', 'While these problems exist', and 'Additionally', ensuring smooth transitions between ideas. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct themes. While paragraphing and sequencing are solid, the referencing is occasionally slightly loose, leading to a Band 7.0 classification where cohesion is generally clear and effective, though not fully unobtrusive.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow some flexibility and precision, employing less common items such as 'mitigated', 'social isolation', 'workplace-integration', and 'diligence'. There is an awareness of style and collocation, although minor inaccuracies exist, such as 'considerable amount of problems' (which should be plural 'amounts' or 'a considerable number of') and 'newcomers part' (missing apostrophe). Spelling and word choice errors are occasional and do not impede communication, placing the response comfortably within the Band 7.0 descriptor.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writer produces a variety of complex sentence structures, such as concessive clauses ('Although individuals may have a basic understanding...') and conditional or participial phrases. There are frequent error-free sentences, and good control of grammar overall. However, a few minor punctuation and article errors persist, such as missing articles before 'personal level' and 'healthcare sector', and a comma splice near the end of the second paragraph ('which can lead, to social isolation'). These infrequent errors do not impede communication, supporting a solid Band 7.0 score.

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