Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 11 · 2026-09-19

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)

Foreign Language Learning — IELTS Essay

Learning a foreign language is often associated with travelling or working in another country. While some people believe that these are the main reasons for acquiring another language, others argue that there are many additional benefits. I believe that although travel and employment are important motivations, learning a foreign language can also provide significant educational, cultural, and personal advantages.

On the one hand, there are several practical reasons for learning a foreign language. Firstly, it can make travelling considerably easier and more enjoyable. People who can communicate in the local language are able to ask for directions, understand signs, order food, and interact with local residents more confidently. For example, a tourist who speaks basic French may find it easier to communicate in France than someone who relies entirely on translation applications. Secondly, knowledge of another language can improve employment opportunities. Many international companies prefer employees who can communicate with customers or colleagues from different countries. Therefore, for people planning to study, live, or work abroad, learning the relevant language can be extremely useful.

On the other hand, foreign languages offer benefits that are not directly connected to travelling or employment. One important advantage is that language learning helps people understand other cultures. Language is closely connected to a country's history, traditions, literature, and ways of thinking. By learning another language, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of people whose cultural backgrounds differ from their own. In addition, studying a language can improve mental skills such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving because learners regularly need to remember vocabulary and apply grammatical rules. It can also allow people to enjoy books, films, music, and other forms of entertainment in their original language.

In my opinion, travelling and working abroad are valuable reasons for learning a foreign language, but they should not be considered the only ones. The ability to communicate in another language can broaden a person's cultural awareness, provide access to different sources of knowledge, and contribute to personal development. For instance, someone who learns Spanish purely out of interest may never visit a Spanish-speaking country, but they can still read Spanish literature, communicate with Spanish-speaking people online, and gain a better understanding of Hispanic cultures.

In conclusion, foreign languages are certainly useful for international travel and employment, but their benefits extend far beyond these practical purposes. Learning another language can enrich people's cultural knowledge, improve cognitive abilities, and open the door to new forms of communication and entertainment.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both views on the reasons for learning a foreign language and clearly stating a well-developed personal position. The introduction establishes a clear stance that travel and employment are important, but that educational, cultural, and personal advantages are equally significant. Body paragraph one logically presents the practical views regarding travel and work, citing specific examples like asking for directions and international business. Body paragraph two explores alternative benefits such as cultural understanding and cognitive improvement. The conclusion reinforces the writer's stance. Ideas are well-extended and supported throughout, matching the Band 8 descriptor.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Information and ideas are logically sequenced with a clear overarching progression from the introduction, through the two contrasting views, to the personal opinion and conclusion. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct central topic. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly, including transition signals such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'In addition', and 'For instance', ensuring that the text flows smoothly without mechanical overuse. Referencing is clear and appropriate.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

The student demonstrates a wide, fluent, and flexible lexical resource suitable for an academic essay. There is skillful use of less common and sophisticated vocabulary items, such as 'acquiring another language', 'employment opportunities', 'cultural awareness', and 'cognitive abilities'. Word choice and collocations are natural and accurate throughout. Minor errors or awkward collocations are virtually absent. Spelling and word formation are entirely correct, allowing the reader to follow the arguments effortlessly. This performance aligns comfortably with the Band 8 descriptors.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The writer employs a wide range of complex grammatical structures with a high degree of flexibility and accuracy. Sentences incorporate varied subordinate clauses, conditional elements, and participial phrases, such as 'While some people believe that these are the main reasons for acquiring another language, others argue that...' and 'By learning another language, individuals can gain a deeper understanding...'. The majority of sentences are completely error-free, and any errors are extremely rare. Control of grammar, punctuation, and tense consistency is strong, warranting a solid Band 8 score.

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