Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-22

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some university students want to learn about other subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others believe it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for a qualification. Discuss both these views and give your opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

 

Student answer (Band 6.5)

In recent years, it has been observed that many university students prefer to study about other subjects apart from their main field. Some people argue that college students want to learn about other subjects in addition to their main subjects, while others believe that it is more important to give all their time and attention to the main subjects for a qualification. In my opinion, university students should give equal attention to the main subjects along with other subjects outside their main field for a better future.

On the one hand, the knowledge of other subjects outside their main field contributes to the overall development of the students. This allows the students to gain the knowledge about various fields and may increase the opportunities in the future. For example, if a student with a computer science background study about finance, they may get an opportunity to work as a financial analyst in a fintech company. Additionally, learning about other subjects allows students to develop innovative technologies. If an artificial intelligence student gain knowledge about cybersecurity, they may develop more advanced software to protect against various cyberattacks.

On the other hand, critics argue that dedicating all their time and attention to the core subjects are beneficial to those who want to make a better career in the main field. If a student dedicates most of their time to the main subjects, they can build core knowledge and deeper understanding about their field. They may also compete with others to get a better job in the future. Furthermore, courses such as accounting, engineering, and biology require strong analytical skills, deeper understanding and knowledge. A student can develop greater knowledge and problem solving skills by spending the most of their time to study the core subjects. This can also help a student to get better grades in academics.

In conclusion, studying other subjects outside the main field helps to develop innovative technologies and may provide a wide range of opportunities. However, dedicating all their time to the main field can help students to gain deeper knowledge and get better grades. A balanced approach works best where students should give an equal amount of time and attention to the main subjects along with other subjects of their interest for better future.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both viewpoints and providing a clear personal opinion. The ideas are relevant and supported by examples, such as the computer science and finance scenario. The position is consistent throughout the essay. To reach a higher band, the development of ideas could be more nuanced; for instance, the argument for focusing solely on core subjects could explore the 'time-management' aspect or the 'depth vs. breadth' debate in more detail. Overall, the task is well-addressed with a logical structure that supports the prompt's requirements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central topic, and the progression of ideas is easy to follow. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'Additionally', and 'Furthermore' are used effectively to link ideas. However, some transitions are slightly repetitive or mechanical. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different viewpoints. The referencing is generally clear, though some minor improvements in the variety of linking words would enhance the flow further.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The vocabulary is sufficient for the task and allows for clear communication. The student uses relevant academic terminology such as 'core subjects', 'analytical skills', and 'innovative technologies'. There are some instances of repetitive phrasing, such as the frequent use of 'subjects' and 'main field'. While the range is adequate, there is limited use of less common lexical items or idiomatic expressions that would demonstrate a more sophisticated command of the language. Word choice is generally accurate, and there are no significant errors that impede meaning.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0

The essay demonstrates a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There is good control over basic grammar, and the meaning is always clear. However, there are some recurring grammatical slips, such as subject-verb agreement errors (e.g., 'dedicating all their time and attention to the core subjects are beneficial' should be 'is beneficial') and minor article usage issues. While the student attempts complex sentences, they are not always perfectly executed. The punctuation is generally correct, but the overall range of complex structures could be expanded to achieve a higher score.

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