Band 5.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 5.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-08-25

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 5.5)

Several university scholars have interest in learning other subjects instead of main subjects. However, some argue that focusing on their education related subjects which is beneficial for their career enhancement. To commence with, in education sectors many learners interest lies in other subjects which are entertaining them or they feel enjoyment when they study. However, it isn't be possible yet, because of the higher authorities in to education. Likely, their aim is that scholars should learn more knowledge regarding their field which is only possible when they should learn with full focus. Nevertheless, is their interest lies in unrelated subjects, it may be harmful for them and they will hinder their career in difficulty. On the other hand, some people argued that relevant degree study is beneficial for their bright career, because when they enter in any multinational industry or company it should be helpful to obtain promotion which is only achievable when they have got theoretical knowledge. In my opinion, I strongly agree with this notion, because it is mandatory for every learner in university to have theory knowledge after that they should learn more practical knowledge in the industry after obtaining their degree. For instance, when I was in university I learned several technical theories or relevant subjects. As a result, these were very helpful for me to getting a job as a Civil Engineer. In conclusion, scholars must learn their main subjects with full effort which are beneficial for them in the future. Still, if they do not put focus on that it will create challenges in the future.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 5.5

The response addresses both sides of the argument and provides a clear personal opinion. However, the development of ideas is somewhat limited. While you mention that studying other subjects might be 'entertaining', the explanation of why this is beneficial or detrimental remains superficial. The argument for focusing on main subjects is clearer, supported by a personal example of your career as a Civil Engineer. To improve, ensure that each viewpoint is explored with more depth and specific reasoning rather than just stating the preference. The conclusion effectively summarises your position, but the overall development of the prompt's complexity could be more robust.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 5.5

The essay is organised into logical paragraphs, and there is a clear progression of ideas. You use some cohesive devices such as 'To commence with', 'However', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion'. However, the use of these devices is sometimes mechanical or slightly awkward, such as 'Nevertheless, is their interest lies in unrelated subjects'. Additionally, some transitions between sentences are abrupt, which affects the flow. Improving the variety of linking words and ensuring that referencing (e.g., 'that', 'these') is precise will help the essay move more smoothly between points.

Lexical Resource — Band 5.5

The vocabulary is generally adequate for the task, allowing you to convey your meaning clearly. You use some topic-specific terms like 'qualification', 'career enhancement', and 'theoretical knowledge'. However, there are instances of imprecise word choice and awkward collocations, such as 'education sectors' instead of 'higher education', and 'hinder their career in difficulty'. There is also some repetition of basic words like 'subjects' and 'knowledge'. To reach a higher band, focus on using more precise academic vocabulary and collocations that sound more natural in an IELTS context.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 5.0

The essay contains a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, but there are frequent grammatical errors that occasionally impede the reader's understanding. Examples include 'it isn't be possible yet', 'is their interest lies', and 'when they should learn with full focus'. There are also issues with subject-verb agreement and article usage (e.g., 'in to education'). While the meaning is generally clear, the frequency of these errors prevents the writing from reaching a higher band. Focusing on basic sentence construction and proofreading for subject-verb agreement will significantly improve your score.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.