Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-09

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 7.5)

It is undeniable that in recent years, a diversity of opinions has emerged regarding the structure of higher education. While some individuals advocate for the inclusion of supplementary subjects in university curricula, others contend that students should concentrate solely on their primary field of study. This essay will examine both perspectives before articulating my own viewpoint.

On one side of the debate, proponents of diversifying academic pursuits argue that exploring additional subjects enriches students' educational experiences and provides a broader understanding of the world. Often, students enrolled in specialized programs may find themselves confined to a narrow field of study, which can stifle their curiosity and limit their intellectual growth. For instance, in Vietnam, literature is frequently excluded from science-oriented university programs, thereby preventing students from appreciating the cultural significance and emotional depth of literary works. Furthermore, personal interests and hobbies drive some students to seek knowledge beyond their primary discipline. For example, a student passionate about painting may wish to incorporate art classes into their academic schedule, thereby allowing them to cultivate their creativity alongside their scientific studies. Consequently, the pursuit of additional subjects not only enhances academic knowledge but also serves as a valuable outlet for relaxation and personal expression beyond the rigors of their primary coursework.

Conversely, supporters of the argument favoring focused study maintain that investing time and effort in a singular field cultivates a profound mastery of that discipline. Specialization often leads to a more comprehensive understanding of complex concepts and prepares students for their future careers. A compelling illustration of this is seen when students pursuing advanced degrees engage in intensive study within their chosen area, allowing them to develop expertise that can significantly improve their employ ability. Moreover, concentrating on specific subjects can foster effective study habits and problem-solving abilities. For instance, dedicating oneself to mathematics not only enhances computational skills but also equips students with logical reasoning techniques that can be applied to various challenges in their academic and professional lives. As a result, such focused engagement empowers students to better navigate their future career paths with clarity and confidence.

In conclusion, while there are undeniable advantages to broadening one's academic horizon by studying multiple subjects, I firmly believe that university students should prioritize their efforts towards mastering their primary field of study. A focused approach not only fosters deeper knowledge and expertise, but it also lays a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling career.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task. You have discussed both views—the benefits of broadening academic horizons and the advantages of focused specialization—and provided a clear personal opinion in the introduction and conclusion. The ideas are well-developed with relevant examples, such as the mention of literature in science programs and the development of logical reasoning through mathematics. The position is consistent throughout the essay, and the arguments are logically extended, meeting the requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth, using cohesive devices like 'On one side of the debate,' 'Conversely,' and 'In conclusion.' The use of referencing is accurate, and the paragraphing is appropriate. The flow of the argument is natural, and the cohesive devices are used flexibly without being mechanical, which contributes to the overall clarity of the text.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, using sophisticated items such as 'curricula,' 'stifle,' 'rigors,' and 'comprehensive understanding.' The word choices are precise and appropriate for an academic context. There is a high level of control over collocation, and the vocabulary is used naturally to convey complex ideas. There are no significant errors in word choice or spelling, and the range is sufficient to allow for precise expression of your arguments.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of complex structures, including conditional-like structures, relative clauses, and varied sentence beginnings. The majority of sentences are error-free, and the control over punctuation and grammar is excellent. There are no noticeable errors that impede communication. The grammatical structures are used with high accuracy, and the variety of sentence forms contributes to the overall fluency and professional tone of the writing.

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