Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 13 · 2026-09-26

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 6.5)

There is no doubt that history is an important subject because it helps us understand how societies and cultures have developed over time. However, some people believe that subjects such as science and technology are more important in today’s rapidly changing world. In my opinion, both areas of study are valuable, although science and technology may have a more direct impact on our daily lives.

On the one hand, learning history helps people understand the reasons behind many events that have shaped the present world. By studying past wars, political movements and social changes, we can learn from the mistakes of previous generations and avoid repeating them. History also gives people a better understanding of their own culture and traditions. For example, when students learn about their country's independence and the struggles faced by earlier generations, they can develop a stronger sense of connection with their society.

On the other hand, science and technology are becoming increasingly important because they directly influence the way we live and work. Scientific developments have improved healthcare, transportation and communication. For instance, modern medical technology has made it possible to diagnose and treat diseases that were once extremely difficult to manage. Similarly, smartphones and the internet allow people to communicate and access information almost instantly. These developments are particularly important in a world where new challenges require practical and innovative solutions.

Personally, I believe that schools should not treat history and science as competing subjects. History teaches us why the world has developed in a particular way, while science and technology help us decide how to improve it. A well-educated person needs knowledge of both the past and the present.

In conclusion, although science and technology are essential for dealing with the demands of modern life, history remains equally valuable because it helps us understand our past and learn from it. Therefore, both should have an important place in education.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. The student discusses both views clearly—the importance of history for understanding culture and avoiding past mistakes, versus the role of science and technology in driving daily modern progress. Furthermore, the writer presents a clear personal opinion throughout the essay, concluding that both subjects are complementary rather than mutually exclusive. The ideas are well extended and supported with relevant examples, such as medical technology, the internet, and learning about a country's independence struggles. This meets the criteria for Band 7.0.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay presents a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, starting with an introduction that outlines the debate and states the writer's position. Body paragraphs are introduced effectively with standard cohesive phrases like 'On the one hand' and 'On the other hand'. Cohesive devices are used flexibly and appropriately without being overly mechanical. Paragraphing is used sufficiently to structure the argument, resulting in a cohesive flow that guides the reader naturally from introduction to conclusion, aligning with Band 7.0 descriptors.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow for flexibility and precision, such as 'rapidly changing world', 'previous generations', and 'innovative solutions'. Less common lexical items are used with some awareness of style and collocation, like 'direct impact' and 'competing subjects'. There are very few lexical errors, and the vocabulary choices effectively convey the intended meaning without impeding communication. This performance fits comfortably within Band 7.0.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.0

The writer employs a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, demonstrating good control of grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include conditional or participial elements such as 'when students learn about their country's independence and the struggles faced by earlier generations, they can develop a stronger sense of connection'. The majority of sentences are error-free, with accurate punctuation and tense consistency throughout. This level of grammatical accuracy and variety warrants a Band 7.5.

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