Band 9.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 9.0 · Cambridge IELTS 11 · 2026-07-30

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Nowadays, many medical research projects are funded by private companies. In your opinion, do you think that research should be carried by private companies, individuals or government?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 9.0)

Medical research plays a pivotal role in improving healthcare and enhancing the quality of human life. Although private companies currently finance a considerable proportion of scientific research, I firmly believe that the government should assume primary responsibility for funding and conducting medical research, while private organizations should play a complementary role.

The foremost reason for government involvement is that it prioritizes public welfare over financial gain. Unlike private corporations, which often invest in projects with high commercial potential, governments are more likely to allocate resources to diseases that affect vulnerable or low-income populations, even when these studies generate little or no profit. For instance, research into rare diseases, preventive healthcare, and vaccination programmes is frequently overlooked by profit-driven firms but remains essential for society. Consequently, government-funded research ensures that healthcare advancements benefit all citizens rather than only those who can afford expensive treatments.

Another compelling argument is that government-funded research is generally subject to stricter ethical regulations and greater transparency. Since public funds are involved, researchers must adhere to rigorous scientific standards and are accountable to society. This reduces the likelihood of biased findings or the suppression of unfavourable results, practices that may occasionally occur when commercial interests dominate. Moreover, publicly funded discoveries are more likely to be shared with the global scientific community, accelerating medical progress and encouraging international collaboration.

Admittedly, private companies make a significant contribution by providing cutting-edge technology, highly skilled researchers, and substantial financial resources. Their efficiency and innovative capacity have led to the rapid development of life-saving medicines and advanced medical equipment. Nevertheless, commercial objectives should not dictate the direction of healthcare research. Instead, private firms should collaborate with governments rather than replace them.

In conclusion, although private companies play an indispensable role in driving medical innovation, I believe the government should remain the principal force behind medical research because it safeguards the public interest, upholds ethical standards, and ensures that scientific breakthroughs are accessible to everyone rather than being determined primarily by profitability.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 9.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have taken a clear position from the introduction and maintained it consistently throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, particularly the distinction between profit-driven research and public welfare. You provide relevant examples, such as rare diseases and vaccination programmes, to support your arguments. The structure is logical, with a balanced view that acknowledges the role of private companies before refuting their suitability as the primary funding source. The response is well-focused and demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the topic, meeting all requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth. You use a range of cohesive devices effectively, such as 'The foremost reason', 'Another compelling argument', 'Moreover', and 'Admittedly'. These markers guide the reader through your argument without being repetitive or mechanical. The paragraphing is used appropriately to separate the different facets of your argument, and the conclusion effectively summarizes your position while reinforcing the main points discussed in the body paragraphs.

Lexical Resource — Band 9.0

You demonstrate a wide and flexible range of vocabulary, which is used with precision and natural control. Phrases such as 'pivotal role', 'complementary role', 'commercial potential', and 'adhere to rigorous scientific standards' show a high level of lexical sophistication. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation. The vocabulary is consistently appropriate for an academic context, and you successfully avoid repetition by using varied synonyms and academic terminology throughout the response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 9.0

The essay displays a wide range of complex grammatical structures, including conditional-like reasoning, passive voice, and subordinate clauses. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation is excellent. You use complex sentence structures with full flexibility, and there are no grammatical slips that impede communication. The accuracy is consistent throughout the text, demonstrating a high level of grammatical competence that is well-suited for an academic essay.

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