Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 11 · 2026-09-18

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 only worthwhile for those who intend to travel to or work in another country. Others believe that there are many other reasons for studying a foreign language. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I believe language learning has benefits beyond travel and employment.

On the one hand, travelling and working abroad are two major reasons for learning another language. When people visit a foreign country, being able to communicate with local residents can make their experience considerably easier. For example, tourists who speak the local language can ask for directions, order food and deal with unexpected problems without relying entirely on translation applications. Similarly, employees who work overseas often need to communicate with colleagues, customers and managers in the local language. Therefore, for people who plan to live or work abroad, learning the relevant language can be extremely practical.

On the other hand, there are several important reasons for learning a foreign language even without plans to go abroad. First, language learning can improve communication with foreigners who live in one's own country. As societies become increasingly multicultural, people may encounter speakers of different languages at school, at work or in their local communities. Second, studying another language can provide access to foreign literature, films, music and other forms of culture in their original form. This can help learners develop a deeper understanding of other societies and perspectives. Finally, learning a language can be an intellectually rewarding activity. It requires memory, concentration and regular practice, and many people study languages simply because they enjoy the challenge.

In my view, although travel and employment are strong practical motivations, they are certainly not the only reasons to learn a foreign language. The ability to communicate across cultures, access different forms of entertainment and broaden one's understanding of the world can make language learning valuable even for those who never live or work abroad.

In conclusion, foreign languages are useful not only for travelling and working overseas but also for cultural, social and personal development.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views—that foreign languages are solely for travel and work, and that there are broader reasons—while clearly presenting the writer's own position throughout. In the body paragraphs, the student provides well-developed ideas and relevant examples, such as how tourists deal with unexpected problems or how studying languages opens up access to foreign literature and film. The reasoning is extended logically and supported with appropriate details, meeting all the requirements of Band 8 for this criterion.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

Ideas are logically sequenced and progress naturally from the introduction through the two contrasting body paragraphs to the personal viewpoint and conclusion. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph having a clear central topic. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand,' 'On the other hand,' 'Similarly,' and 'Finally' are managed well to guide the reader through the argument. Referencing is clear and accurate throughout the text, demonstrating the control expected at Band 8.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The student demonstrates a wide and flexible lexical resource, utilizing appropriate uncommon vocabulary and collocation such as 'intellectually rewarding,' 'multicultural,' 'perspectives,' and 'practical motivations.' Word choice is precise and natural, as seen in expressions like 'relying entirely on translation applications' and 'broaden one's understanding of the world.' There are only occasional very minor limitations, but overall the vocabulary is fluent, sophisticated, and appropriate for an academic context, fully aligning with Band 8 descriptors.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of structures, including complex sentences with multiple clauses (e.g., 'When people visit a foreign country, being able to communicate with local residents can make their experience considerably easier'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and the student demonstrates excellent control of grammar and punctuation. Only very occasional minor slips or stylistic awkwardness might be noted, but these never impede communication. The grammatical range and accuracy are comfortably at the Band 8 level.

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