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 task prompt. The student takes a clear position in the introduction—largely disagreeing with the absolute statement that printed newspapers and books will disappear and become entirely free—and maintains this position throughout the essay. Both body paragraphs are well-developed with relevant and logical arguments. Body paragraph one effectively considers the opposing side by discussing the convenience, affordability, and accessibility of digital media, citing smartphones and tablets as examples. Body paragraph two successfully supports the writer's stance by exploring the tactile preferences of readers, educational benefits, longevity without electricity, and institutional demand from libraries and schools. Ideas are extended nicely and provide a thorough discussion without wandering off-topic. Based on the band descriptors, this response clearly merits a band 7.0 for fully addressing all parts with a clear position and well-extended ideas.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 6.5

The essay displays clear logical organisation and progression throughout. The response is neatly structured into a traditional introduction, two distinct body paragraphs representing opposing views, and a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly, such as transition signals like 'On the one hand', 'In addition', 'On the other hand', and 'Consequently'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph centering around a clear topic sentence. Referencing is well-managed, meaning pronouns and substitution terms accurately refer back to previous concepts without causing confusion. While the cohesive devices are somewhat standard rather than sophisticatedly invisible, the overall flow meets the criteria for band 7.0 due to its clear logical progression and management of cohesion.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The student demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow for flexibility and precision. Words and phrases such as 'significantly reduce', 'obsolete', 'convenient', and 'institutional demand' show an ability to use less common lexical items with awareness of style and collocation. There are very few lexical errors, and the vocabulary choices effectively convey the intended meaning without impeding communication. While there could be a wider integration of more sophisticated or idiomatic academic phrasing to push into higher bands, the range used here easily satisfies the band 7.0 descriptor for possessing sufficient flexibility and precision alongside appropriate word choices.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The essay features a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentence forms, showcasing a wide structural range. The student successfully incorporates subordinate clauses, conditional ideas, and participial phrases, such as in sentences like 'In addition, digital books are usually more convenient because thousands of titles can be stored on a single device.' There is a high frequency of error-free sentences, and the grammar and punctuation are controlled very well throughout the text. Any minor flaws are extremely rare and do not impede communication in the slightest. This level of control, accuracy, and structural variety aligns comfortably with a band 7.5 descriptor.

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