Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-08-24

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 some cultures, children are taught from an early age that they can achieve anything as long as they work hard enough. This message can encourage children to become motivated and persistent, but it can also create unrealistic expectations about what they can achieve.

One major advantage is that this belief can develop determination and a strong work ethic. Children who believe that their efforts can lead to success are more likely to continue working when they face difficulties. For example, a student who performs poorly in mathematics may be encouraged to practise regularly instead of giving up. Over time, this attitude can help children develop discipline, confidence and the ability to deal with challenges.

However, there are also disadvantages to this message. The main problem is that it can make children believe that hard work always guarantees success. In reality, achievement can depend on factors such as natural ability, financial resources, opportunities and competition. For instance, a child may work extremely hard to become a professional athlete but still fail because they do not have the physical ability required at the highest level. If children believe that failure means they did not work hard enough, they may experience disappointment or blame themselves unnecessarily.

Another possible disadvantage is that children may put excessive pressure on themselves. If they believe they must succeed in everything they attempt, they may spend too much time studying or practising and become frustrated when their efforts do not produce the expected results.

In conclusion, telling children that hard work can help them achieve their goals can build motivation, confidence and perseverance. However, parents should also teach them that effort is important but does not guarantee every desired outcome. This would give children both ambition and a realistic understanding of success and failure.

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 (motivation, persistence, work ethic) and the disadvantages (unrealistic expectations, potential for self-blame, excessive pressure). The position is consistent throughout, and the ideas are well-developed with relevant examples, such as the reference to professional athletes. The conclusion effectively synthesises the arguments and provides a balanced perspective. The response is well-structured and directly answers the question asked, meeting all requirements for a high band score.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organised with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the advantages and disadvantages is smooth, using appropriate linking words like 'However' and 'Another possible disadvantage'. Cohesive devices are used effectively to connect sentences and ideas without being repetitive or mechanical. The paragraphing is logical, with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a concise conclusion. The flow of information is natural and easy to follow throughout the entire piece.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for an academic context. Phrases such as 'unrealistic expectations', 'natural ability', 'excessive pressure', and 'perseverance' show a level of sophistication. The word choice is precise and contributes to the clarity of your arguments. While the vocabulary is accurate and fits the context well, it could be slightly more varied to reach the highest band, but it is certainly sufficient for a high-level response. There are no spelling or collocation errors that impede communication.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and conditional forms (e.g., 'If they believe they must succeed... they may spend...'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and syntax is strong. The writing is fluent, and there are no significant grammatical slips that distract the reader. The use of modal verbs to express possibility and necessity is handled with precision, which is essential for this type of argumentative task.

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