Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-09-14

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people say History is one of the most important school subjects. Other people think that in today’s world subjects like Science and technology are more important than History.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant example form your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 5.5)

The topic of issue has sparked considerable debate in recent years. Some are of the opinion that history is one of the most important subject, whereas others holding diametrically opposing points of views argue that in today's world studying science and technology related subject is more vital. This essay will examine both sides before reaching a well-informed conclusion.

On the one hand, many people believe that learning science related subject is crucial in recent years. One key reason behind this viewpoint is that learning science enables students to develop critical thinking ability. This is underpinned by a ground-breaking research conducted by some prominent student researchers of MIT. Additionally, those in favor of this stance propound that studying scientific subjects creates a better job opportunity as almost every industrial sector is somehow related to science. Evidence from educational system such as the Bangladesh Central University faculty reveals that students who graduated from tech department tend to have a higher acceptance rate in the job market.

On the other hand, it is frequently asserted that history is one the prestigious subject to study. One of the main justifications for this opinion is that history broadens the horizon of knowledge because learners have to study about different timelines and related incidents. A clear example of this can be seen in the department of history where students have the opportunity to learn different historical events. Furthermore those who support this belief contend that it gives them an edge when it comes to serving humanity or leading a position, which requires comprehensive knowledge about past happenings.

After examining both sides of the arguments, I am convinced that studying scientific subject can be more beneficial. One compelling reason why this standpoint is more effective is today people are finding it challenging to solve real world problems; as a result, demand for problem solving people has been increased. This is why I think science has become an indispensable subject.

In conclusion, although the opposing arguments can not be dismissed entirely, the evidence clearly supports the view that studying science and technology today is more important then history

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The student addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views on whether history or science and technology are more important school subjects, and provides a clear personal opinion throughout the essay. The introduction outlines the plan, body paragraphs explore both perspectives, and the conclusion reiterates the stance. However, some ideas are slightly under-developed or supported by unconvincing evidence, such as referring to 'prominent student researchers of MIT' or vague generalisations about faculty job markets. Despite these minor limitations, the position is well-sustained and relevant ideas are adequately extended, meeting the criteria for a Band 6.5 or solid Band 7.0 response. Given the overall clear development and clear position, a Band 6.0 is appropriate as some supporting arguments rely on simplistic reasoning rather than fully robust elaboration.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The response is logically organised with a clear overall progression. The essay is divided into five appropriate paragraphs, including an introduction, two body paragraphs examining opposite sides, a reasoning paragraph for the personal view, and a conclusion. Cohesive devices are used adequately to guide the reader through the text, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion'. However, some referencing is slightly faulty or mechanical, and paragraph transitions occasionally feel abrupt. Paragraphing is utilised sufficiently, and each section has a clear central topic, fitting the Band 6 descriptors well.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The student demonstrates an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, attempting some less common items such as 'diametrically opposing points of views', 'ground-breaking research', and 'indispensable subject'. However, there are noticeable word-form and collocation errors throughout the text, such as 'one of the most important subject' instead of 'subjects', 'science related subject' instead of 'subjects', and 'tech department'. Additionally, spelling and word choice errors like 'then history' instead of 'than history' occur. These errors do not impede communication, but they restrict the lexical score to a Band 6.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.5

The writer uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms, demonstrating attempts at varied subordination with structures like 'Although the opposing arguments can not be dismissed entirely...'. However, there is a recurring presence of grammatical errors, particularly regarding pluralisation and subject-verb agreement, such as 'history is one the prestigious subject' and 'demand for problem solving people has been increased'. Punctuation errors are also present, such as missing commas after introductory transitional phrases. While these errors rarely impede communication, they prevent the essay from reaching a higher band, making a Band 6.0 an accurate reflection of the student's grammatical control.

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