Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-09-22

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 7.5)

History is widely regarded as an essential school subject because it helps young people understand the events and ideas that have shaped the modern world. However, others argue that, given the rapid pace of technological development, subjects such as science and technology are more valuable for students today. While both perspectives have merit, I believe that history remains important, although science and technology should receive greater emphasis in contemporary education.

On the one hand, studying history provides students with a deeper understanding of society and the reasons behind current events. By learning about wars, political movements, economic crises and social changes, young people can understand how present-day institutions and international relationships developed. History can also teach valuable lessons from past mistakes. For example, studying the causes and consequences of the two World Wars can help students understand the devastating effects of political extremism and international conflict. Furthermore, history encourages critical thinking because students must examine different sources, distinguish fact from interpretation, and consider events from multiple perspectives. These skills are useful not only academically but also in everyday life.

On the other hand, there is a strong argument that science and technology are particularly important in the modern world. Technological advances have transformed almost every aspect of life, from communication and transportation to medicine and education. Consequently, students with a strong foundation in science and digital skills are better equipped to participate in an increasingly technology-driven economy. For instance, knowledge of computer science, artificial intelligence and renewable energy can prepare young people for emerging careers and enable them to contribute to solving major global challenges such as climate change and energy shortages. In addition, scientific education encourages problem-solving and innovation, which are crucial qualities in a rapidly changing world.

In my view, however, it would be misguided to regard these subjects as competitors. Science and technology may have a more direct impact on students’ future careers, but history provides the cultural awareness, critical judgement and understanding of human behaviour needed to use technological progress responsibly. A student who understands both the historical consequences of major social changes and the possibilities offered by modern technology is likely to be better prepared to make informed decisions. For example, technological developments such as artificial intelligence raise ethical and social questions that cannot be answered through technical knowledge alone; an understanding of history, society and human values is equally necessary.

In conclusion, history is indispensable because it helps students understand the past and interpret the present, while science and technology provide practical knowledge and skills for an increasingly digital world. Although greater attention to scientific and technological education is justified by contemporary demands, schools should maintain a balanced curriculum in which both areas complement each other.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The student has successfully addressed all parts of the task by discussing both views—the importance of history versus the prominence of science and technology—and providing a clear, well-supported personal opinion throughout the essay. The position is fully developed with relevant arguments and supporting examples, such as referencing the World Wars to illustrate the value of history and climate change for science and technology. The ideas are extended logically without any tangential information. This performance fully meets the criteria for Band 8.0.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay displays a clear logical organization and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with an introduction that outlines the debate and the writer's stance, followed by well-structured body paragraphs exploring both sides and the synthesis in the conclusion. Cohesive devices are used appropriately and naturally, as seen with phrases like 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'In my view'. Paragraphing is skilful and fully appropriate. There are no notable faults in cohesion, justifying a Band 8.0.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The student demonstrates a wide and flexible lexical range suitable for an academic response. Uncommon and topic-specific vocabulary items are used effectively and accurately, such as 'political extremism', 'contemporary education', 'technology-driven economy', and 'ethical and social questions'. Word choice and collocations are generally natural and precise, with only occasional minor stylistic imperfections. The spelling and word formation are entirely accurate throughout the text. This reflects the descriptors for a Band 8.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The writer employs a wide range of complex grammatical structures with a high degree of flexibility and control. Sentences are structurally varied, incorporating effective dependent clauses, conditional meanings, and participial phrases (e.g., 'By learning about wars...', 'Although greater attention to scientific and technological education is justified...'). The majority of sentences are completely error-free, and any complex structures attempted are handled accurately. Punctuation is also well-managed. This level of grammatical command earns a Band 8.0.

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