Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 11 · 2026-08-12
IELTS Writing Task 2 question
Some people say that the only reason for learning a foreign language is in order to travel to or work in a foreign country. Others say that these are not the only reasons why someone should learn a foreign language.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Student answer (Band 7.5)
Some people argue that learning a foreign language is useful only for those who intend to travel to or work in another country. Others believe that there are many other reasons for acquiring a second language. Although international travel and employment are important motivations, I believe that learning a foreign language also provides significant educational, cultural and personal benefits.
On the one hand, being able to communicate in another language is particularly valuable when travelling or working abroad. Tourists can interact with local people, ask for directions and deal with everyday situations more confidently when they understand the local language. Similarly, employees who speak a foreign language may have greater career opportunities, especially in international companies. For example, a person who speaks both English and Spanish may be better placed to work with clients across Europe and Latin America.
On the other hand, foreign-language learning has benefits that extend far beyond these practical purposes. Firstly, it can provide a deeper understanding of other cultures because language is closely connected with traditions, history and social values. Secondly, learning another language can improve cognitive abilities such as memory, concentration and problem-solving. It can also enable people to access books, films and other forms of media in their original language, allowing them to appreciate ideas that may be lost in translation.
In my view, therefore, travelling and employment are valid reasons for learning a foreign language, but they are certainly not the only ones. The cultural understanding, intellectual development and broader access to information that language learning provides make it worthwhile even for people who never intend to live or work abroad.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.5 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 7.5 |
| Overall | 7.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5
The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly discussed both views—the practical necessity of language for travel/work and the broader cultural and cognitive benefits—while maintaining a consistent personal position throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as the mention of cognitive improvements and the ability to access original media. The structure is logical, and the conclusion effectively synthesizes your argument, ensuring the task requirements are met with a high level of clarity and focus.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5
The essay demonstrates a clear logical progression. Each paragraph has a central topic, and the transition between the two viewpoints is smooth, using appropriate signposting language like 'On the one hand' and 'On the other hand'. Cohesive devices are used effectively and naturally, such as 'Similarly', 'Firstly', and 'In my view, therefore'. The paragraphing is skilful, with each section serving a distinct purpose in the overall argument. The flow of ideas is seamless, making the text very easy to follow.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.5
You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey your ideas with precision. Phrases such as 'significant educational, cultural and personal benefits', 'greater career opportunities', and 'appreciate ideas that may be lost in translation' demonstrate a good command of language. While the vocabulary is accurate and appropriate for the task, it could be elevated further by incorporating more sophisticated or idiomatic collocations to reach the highest band. However, the current range is more than adequate for a clear and professional tone.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5
The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and conditional-like constructions. The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and syntax is strong. There are no significant errors that impede communication. You successfully use a variety of sentence forms, such as 'Although international travel and employment are important motivations, I believe that...' which shows flexibility. The writing is consistently accurate, reflecting a high level of grammatical competence.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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