Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-13

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

 

Student answer (Band 6.5)

In this expeditious world, it is undoubtedly true that people encounter numerous challenges in their personal and professional lives. It is often believed by a group of people that accepting a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or financial shortage, is the best approach, whereas several other protagonists opine that individuals should make efforts to improve such circumstances. This essay will discuss both perspectives before presenting my own opinion.

Beyond doubt, there are several compelling reasons why some people believe that accepting difficult situations is beneficial. Firstly, accepting reality can help individuals avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety. For example, a person who is struggling financially may accept their current circumstances and focus on managing their expenses rather than constantly worrying about their income. Secondly, changing an unfavourable situation is not always possible immediately. Someone with an unsatisfactory job, for instance, may need to continue working there because they have family responsibilities and cannot afford to remain unemployed.

On the other hand, several people argue that making efforts to improve a bad situation is a more productive approach. Firstly, taking action can provide individuals with better opportunities and improve their quality of life. For example, an employee who dislikes their job can acquire new skills and search for a better position rather than remaining unhappy. Secondly, actively solving financial problems can lead to long-term stability. A person facing a shortage of money could develop additional skills, find part-time work, or create another source of income.

In my opinion, although accepting certain difficult situations can sometimes be necessary, people should generally try to improve their circumstances whenever they have the opportunity. Taking practical and realistic steps can not only solve existing problems but also create better opportunities for the future.

In conclusion, accepting a bad situation can provide temporary peace and stability, particularly when circumstances cannot be changed immediately. However, I believe that making reasonable efforts to improve one's situation is ultimately a more beneficial approach.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views on accepting bad situations versus trying to improve them, and clearly presents the writer's own opinion throughout the essay. Ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as managing expenses versus acquiring new skills for an unsatisfactory job. The position is consistent and well-reasoned from the introduction through to the conclusion. The task is handled effectively and meets all the requirements of Band 7.0 for this criterion, as all parts are addressed with a clear position and well-extended ideas.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, starting with an effective introduction, followed by well-sequenced body paragraphs discussing both perspectives and the writer's opinion, and ending with a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'Firstly', 'Secondly', 'On the other hand', and 'In my opinion' are used flexibly and appropriately to guide the reader through the argument. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and logically. This performance aligns comfortably with the Band 7.0 descriptors for logical organisation and cohesive device management.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student displays a sufficient range of vocabulary with good flexibility and precision. Words and phrases like 'expeditious world', 'unfavourable situation', 'financial shortage', and 'long-term stability' demonstrate an ability to use less common lexical items with a clear awareness of style and collocation. There are only occasional minor inaccuracies, such as using 'protagonists' to refer to people holding a different view, which is slightly unnatural in this specific context. However, the vocabulary is more than adequate for the task and easily supports clear communication, meriting a Band 7.0 score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writer uses a good variety of complex structures with frequent error-free sentences. Examples include concessive clauses and relative constructions, such as 'someone with an unsatisfactory job, for instance, may need to continue working there because they have family responsibilities'. Grammatical control is generally strong throughout the response, with accurate punctuation and very few errors. The minor slip in word choice mentioned earlier does not detract from the overall grammatical strength. The control over sentence forms easily secures a Band 7.0 for grammatical range and accuracy.

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