Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-08-23

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In some cultures, children are often told that they can achieve anything if they try hard enough. What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving children this message?

Student answer (Band 7.5)

In certain cultures, children are often told that they can achieve anything if they work hard enough. This idea has both positive and negative consequences. On the one hand, it can make children more determined and confident, while on the other, it may create unrealistic expectations and disappointment when hard work does not lead to success.

A major benefit of this message is that it encourages children to work diligently and develop perseverance. When young people believe that effort can improve their chances of success, they are more likely to face challenges rather than give up. For example, a student who believes that regular study can improve academic performance may spend more time working on difficult subjects. Furthermore, this belief can increase self-confidence and encourage children to set ambitious goals.

However, there are disadvantages to telling children that hard work will always guarantee success. Achievement depends on various factors, including natural ability, financial circumstances, opportunities and competition. Consequently, children may become frustrated or blame themselves when they work hard but fail to achieve their goals. For instance, a student might study for many hours but still receive a low mark because other students have greater academic ability or the examination is particularly difficult. This can cause stress and create a sense of personal failure.

In conclusion, telling children that hard work can help them succeed can make them persistent, confident and ambitious. Nevertheless, parents and teachers should provide a realistic perspective by explaining that hard work is essential for success, although it cannot guarantee a particular outcome. This balanced approach can encourage determination without creating unrealistic expectations.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly identified both the advantages (perseverance, self-confidence, goal setting) and the disadvantages (unrealistic expectations, frustration, self-blame). The position is clear from the introduction and is maintained consistently throughout the essay. Ideas are well-developed with relevant examples, such as the student studying for exams. The conclusion provides a thoughtful synthesis of the arguments, offering a balanced perspective that directly answers the implications of the prompt. The development is logical and sufficient for the task requirements.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central topic, and the transition between the advantages and disadvantages is smooth, using appropriate cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'Furthermore', and 'Nevertheless'. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate distinct points. The flow of information is natural, and the relationship between sentences is clear. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive use of linking words, and the overall structure supports the reader's understanding of your argument perfectly.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for an academic context. Phrases like 'develop perseverance', 'unrealistic expectations', and 'balanced approach' show a solid command of topic-specific language. While the vocabulary is accurate and fits the context well, it could be elevated further to reach the highest band by incorporating more sophisticated or idiomatic collocations. However, the current range is sufficient to convey your ideas with precision and clarity, and there are no errors in word choice that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a good variety of complex sentence structures, such as conditional clauses ('If the student believes...') and subordinate clauses ('...when hard work does not lead to success'). The grammar is highly accurate, with the majority of sentences being error-free. Punctuation is used correctly to support the structure of your arguments. There are no significant grammatical slips that distract the reader. The control over complex structures is consistent, which indicates a strong grasp of English grammar suitable for this level.

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