Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-17
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)
Some people believe that it is better to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or a shortage of money. However, others think that people should try to improve their situation. This essay will discuss both views, and I believe that people should try to improve their situation whenever possible.
Accept the situation
On the one hand, there are some reasons why people choose to accept a difficult situation. First of all, not every problem can be changed quickly. For example, a person may have a low-paying job because there are not many job opportunities in their area. In this case, leaving the job may create more financial problems. Therefore, accepting the situation for some time can provide stability. Moreover, people cannot always control everything in their lives. Accepting a situation can help them stay calm and focus on other important things.
On the other hand, many people believe that it is better to make an effort to improve a bad situation. I agree with this view because taking action can create better opportunities in the future. For instance, a person who is unhappy with their job can learn new skills, improve their English or gain more qualifications. After that, they may find a better job. Similarly, someone who has a shortage of money can make a budget, reduce unnecessary spending and look for another source of income. These steps can gradually improve their situation.
In conclusion, although accepting a difficult situation can sometimes provide stability, I believe that people should try to improve their circumstances when they have the opportunity. Making small changes and developing new skills can help people build a better future.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 6.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 6.5 |
| Overall | 6.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5
The response successfully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views—accepting a bad situation for stability and trying to improve it for future opportunities—and clearly states a personal position in the introduction and conclusion. The ideas are relevant and supported with appropriate explanations and examples, such as learning new skills or creating a budget to tackle a shortage of money. The position is maintained throughout the essay. The development of ideas is slightly straightforward, which aligns well with a Band 7 level where all parts are addressed and extended, though a bit more depth could push it higher. Overall, the task response is well-structured and fully satisfies the prompt requirements.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5
The essay presents a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, starting with an introduction that outlines the essay's structure and stance, followed by body paragraphs dedicated to each view, and a succinct conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and appropriately, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'Therefore', and 'Similarly'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently, with distinct separation of ideas, although note the artifact heading 'Accept the situation' which interrupts the flow slightly, though it does not significantly detract from the overall clear structure. Referencing is clear and easy to follow.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.0
The student demonstrates an adequate to sufficient range of vocabulary for the task. Phrases like 'unsatisfactory job', 'financial problems', 'stability', 'unnecessary spending', and 'source of income' are used accurately. There are also attempts at less common vocabulary with general success. While the vocabulary is not particularly sophisticated or advanced, it is precise enough to convey the intended meaning without confusion. Spelling and word choice are accurate throughout, qualifying the response for a solid Band 6.5 or 7.0 level, where meaning is communicated clearly using appropriate everyday and topic-specific lexis.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5
The writer employs a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including conditional or participial clauses like 'For example, a person may have a low-paying job because there are not many job opportunities in their area' and 'After that, they may find a better job'. There is a high proportion of error-free sentences, and grammar and punctuation are generally well controlled. Although the range of complex structures is somewhat standard rather than highly ambitious, the control over the structures attempted is commendable. Minor errors are practically absent, supporting a strong Band 7 score for grammatical accuracy and range.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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