Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-03
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 7.0)
Many students believe that they should focus only on subjects related to their main qualification, while others argue that they should also have the opportunity to study subjects outside their main field. I agree with the second view because studying additional subjects can help students become more well-rounded and improve their chances employment prospects.
On the one hand, studying subjects in addition to the main course can distract students from their major program. Many students already struggle with a heavy academic workload, including projects, assignments and exam preparation. Therefore, additional classes can increase pressure and stress. For example, some universities in Russia include compulsory subjects that are unrelated to students’ main programs. As a result, some students may find it difficult to cope with the workload, especially when these subjects require different types of assignments and preparation.
On the other hand, additional subjects can be beneficial because they broaden students’ perspectives. By studying subjects outside their main field, students can learn to think beyond the boundaries of their specialization, which can make them more versatile professionals. In addition, knowledge from other disciplines can help students to approach their main subject from a different perspective and gain new insights into familiar material. For example, many universities offer minor courses that are either included in the curriculum or available as optional paid courses. After completing such courses, students may receive certificates that can strengthen their CVs when applying for jobs.
In conclusion, although additional subjects may increase students’ workload, I believe that their benefits outweigh this drawback because they broaden students’ perspectives and improve their academic and employment opportunities.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 6.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.0 |
| Overall | 7.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5
The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. The position is consistent throughout the essay. Ideas are relevant and supported with examples, such as the mention of Russian universities and the concept of minor courses. To reach a higher band, the development of the arguments could be more extensive; for instance, explaining exactly how a 'well-rounded' student is more employable would add depth. However, the response is well-focused and meets all requirements of the task effectively.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph has a central topic sentence, and ideas progress logically. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand,' 'In addition,' and 'Therefore' are used effectively to link ideas. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the two opposing viewpoints. The flow of information is smooth, and the relationship between ideas is clear throughout the text, demonstrating a good command of organizational features.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.5
The vocabulary is sufficient and appropriate for the task. The student uses a range of topic-specific terms such as 'qualification,' 'specialization,' 'versatile professionals,' and 'curriculum.' There is evidence of some flexibility, and the meaning is conveyed clearly. While the vocabulary is accurate, it does not consistently reach the level of 'less common' or 'sophisticated' lexical items required for the highest bands. However, there are no significant errors in word choice or collocation, and the language is natural and precise enough for the intended meaning.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0
The essay demonstrates a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There is a high level of accuracy, with the majority of sentences being error-free. Complex structures, such as the conditional 'when these subjects require...' and the concessive clause 'although additional subjects may increase...', are handled well. Punctuation is used correctly throughout. While the range of structures is solid, a greater variety of more complex, sophisticated grammatical forms could elevate the score further. Overall, the grammar is highly controlled and does not impede communication.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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