Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-09-22

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In the future nobody will buy printed newspapers or books because they will be able to read everything they want online without paying. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Student answer (Band 6.5)

Introduction

It is often argued that printed newspapers and books will disappear in the future because people will be able to access all the information they need online for free. I largely disagree with this view because, although digital media is becoming increasingly popular, printed materials will continue to have a place in society.

Body Paragraph 1

On the one hand, the increasing use of the internet may significantly reduce the demand for printed materials. Nowadays, people can easily access news, articles and many books using smartphones, tablets and computers. Online information is often cheaper or even free, and it can be updated immediately. For example, instead of buying a newspaper every morning, people can read the latest news through websites or mobile applications. In addition, digital books are usually more convenient because thousands of titles can be stored on a single device. Therefore, it is likely that the demand for printed newspapers and books will continue to decline.

Body Paragraph 2

On the other hand, I do not believe that printed newspapers and books will completely disappear. Many people still prefer reading physical books because they find them more comfortable and enjoyable than reading from a screen. Printed books are also useful for studying, as some students find it easier to concentrate and remember information when reading from paper. Furthermore, newspapers and books can be kept for a long time and do not require electricity or an internet connection. Libraries, schools and collectors are also likely to maintain demand for printed publications. Consequently, although their popularity may decrease, printed materials are unlikely to become completely obsolete.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the internet will probably reduce the number of people who buy printed newspapers and books because digital information is convenient, affordable and easily accessible. However, I disagree that nobody will buy printed publications in the future, as many people will continue to value the experience and benefits of reading physical materials.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt, exploring both the rise of digital media and the enduring value of physical publications. The writer adopts a clear and well-developed position throughout the essay, stating in the introduction that they largely disagree with the prompt's extreme view. Ideas are extended and supported with relevant explanations and examples, such as the convenience of online updates versus the tactile comfort and lack of electricity needed for physical books. The arguments flow logically from the digital advantages in the first body paragraph to the counter-arguments regarding physical books in the second body paragraph. There are no missing components, and the conclusion neatly ties the arguments back to the prompt's central thesis. This demonstrates a solid grasp of Task Achievement matching Band 7.0 descriptors.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, beginning with a well-defined introduction, moving through balanced body paragraphs, and concluding with an effective summary. The writer uses cohesive devices flexibly and appropriately to guide the reader through the argument, using transition markers such as 'On the one hand', 'In addition', 'On the other hand', 'Furthermore', and 'Consequently'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, and referencing within and across sentences is clear and natural. The progression of ideas from the thesis to the contrasting viewpoints and finally to the conclusion is smooth and easy to follow, earning a solid Band 7.0 for Coherence and Cohesion.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow for flexibility and precision, employing appropriate academic terms such as 'significantly reduce', 'obsolete', 'convenient', and 'publications'. There is some awareness of style and collocation, as seen in phrases like 'digital media', 'physical publications', and 'enduring value'. While the vocabulary is largely adequate and precise, it occasionally relies on standard, everyday terms rather than highly sophisticated or uncommon lexical items, which prevents it from reaching a higher band. Spelling and word choice are accurate throughout, and communication is never impeded. Overall, the lexical control aligns well with the Band 7.0 descriptor criteria.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.5

The writer uses a good variety of complex sentence structures, including conditional and concessive clauses such as 'although digital media is becoming increasingly popular, printed materials will continue to have a place' and 'because some students find it easier to concentrate'. There are frequent error-free sentences, and the overall control of grammar and punctuation is strong. Minor errors are virtually absent, and complex structures are handled with good control and accuracy. The mixture of simple and complex forms is handled effectively without noticeable awkwardness. This performance comfortably meets the criteria for Band 7.0.

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