Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-28

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)

Some university students believe that studying subjects outside their main field can provide valuable additional knowledge, whereas others argue that students should concentrate entirely on obtaining their qualification. Although learning other subjects has certain benefits, I believe that students should give greater attention to their main field of study.

On the one hand, studying additional subjects can help university students develop broader knowledge and a wider range of skills. University education is not only about gaining a qualification but also about preparing students for different situations in their personal and professional lives. For example, an engineering student who studies communication or business may develop useful skills that can help them work effectively with colleagues or manage projects in the future. Furthermore, learning about different subjects can encourage students to think from different perspectives and become more adaptable.

On the other hand, there are strong reasons why students should focus primarily on their main qualification. University courses often contain a large amount of specialised information, and students need considerable time to understand both theoretical concepts and practical skills. If they spend too much time studying unrelated subjects, they may have less time to prepare for examinations or complete important assignments. For instance, a medical student needs to devote sufficient time to subjects such as anatomy and pharmacology as well as practical training. A lack of focus could therefore affect their academic performance and professional preparation.

In conclusion, studying additional subjects can broaden students' knowledge and develop useful skills. However, I believe that students should devote most of their time and attention to their main qualification, while studying other subjects only when this does not interfere with their primary studies

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The student addresses all parts of the task thoroughly. Both views regarding whether university students should study subjects outside their main field or focus entirely on their qualification are discussed in detail. A clear position is established in the introduction and maintained throughout the response, concluding with a balanced view that prioritises the main qualification. Ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the engineering student studying communication or business, and the medical student focusing on anatomy and pharmacology. The content fully satisfies the band 7 level descriptors as all parts of the task are addressed with a clear position and well-extended ideas.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The response demonstrates clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus: introduction with thesis, body paragraph one discussing the benefits of additional subjects, body paragraph two arguing for focus on the main qualification, and a concise 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 to separate the contrasting viewpoints. Referencing is clear and overall cohesion is well managed, fitting the band 7 descriptors well.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary with good flexibility and precision, such as 'specialised information', 'theoretical concepts', 'practical skills', and 'adaptable'. Less common lexical items are used appropriately, showing an awareness of style and collocation in an academic context. There are no noticeable spelling errors or word choice mistakes that impede communication. The vocabulary is adequate to convey precise meanings, easily earning a solid band 7 score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The response features a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures, utilising subordinate clauses effectively, such as 'Although learning other subjects has certain benefits, I believe that students should give greater attention to their main field of study.' The majority of sentences are grammatically accurate, with good control over punctuation and tense consistency. While complex structures are attempted and often error-free, a few minor slips or slightly repetitive structures prevent it from reaching higher bands. Communication is never impeded by grammatical errors, demonstrating solid band 7 performance.

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