Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-21
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)
Some university students believe that learning additional subjects alongside their main course is beneficial, while others think that students should devote all their time and attention to their qualification. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe that studying other subjects can also be valuable.
On the one hand, focusing entirely on a main subject can help students develop a deeper understanding of their field. University courses often contain a large amount of specialised knowledge, and students need sufficient time to attend lectures, complete assignments and prepare for examinations. By concentrating on their qualification, they may be able to achieve better academic results and develop stronger expertise. For example, an engineering student who spends most of their time studying mathematics and technical subjects may gain a more thorough understanding of the concepts required for their future career.
On the other hand, studying additional subjects can provide students with a wider range of knowledge and skills. Learning areas outside their main field can improve creativity, communication and problem-solving abilities, which can be useful in both academic and professional life. For instance, an engineering student who studies communication or business may become better prepared to work in teams and eventually manage projects. Furthermore, having knowledge of different subjects can help students understand how their main field connects with other areas.
In my opinion, students should maintain a balance between their main qualification and additional subjects. Their primary course should remain their main priority, but spending some time learning other useful subjects can broaden their skills without necessarily affecting their academic performance.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.0 |
| Overall | 7.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0
The response successfully addresses all parts of the task. The student discusses both views—focusing entirely on the main qualification versus learning additional subjects—and clearly states their own opinion throughout the essay. Ideas are well developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the engineering student gaining deep technical expertise on one hand, and developing communication or business skills for teamwork on the other. The position is maintained consistently from the introduction to the conclusion, meeting all the requirements of Band 7 and leaning towards higher levels due to the clear extension of ideas.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are coherently structured, with a logical transition from the introduction to the two body paragraphs representing opposing views, followed by a well-reasoned conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'Furthermore'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct central topic, satisfying the criteria for a strong performance.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.5
The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with good flexibility and precision, suitable for an academic context. Phrases such as 'specialised knowledge', 'thorough understanding', 'professional life', and 'academic performance' demonstrate a capable handle on lexical items appropriate to the prompt. Less common items are used with some awareness of style and collocation (e.g., 'devote all their time and attention'). There are no noticeable spelling or word-choice errors that impede communication, making this a solid performance for this criterion.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0
The writing exhibits a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentences, showing good control of grammar and punctuation. Examples of complex structures include conditional or participial elements and multi-clause sentences, such as 'By concentrating on their qualification, they may be able to achieve better academic results...' The majority of sentences are error-free, and any errors are minimal and non-systematic. Control of punctuation and tense consistency is well maintained throughout the text.
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