Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-09-03

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 many societies, children are encouraged to believe that determination and hard work can enable them to achieve any goal they set for themselves. While this message can develop a positive attitude towards challenges and motivate children to persevere, it can also create unrealistic expectations about success. This essay will examine both the benefits and drawbacks of this approach.

One significant advantage of this message is that it can foster perseverance and self-confidence. When children believe that their efforts can influence their results, they are more likely to overcome difficulties rather than give up after experiencing failure. For instance, a student who initially struggles with mathematics may continue practising if they are taught that improvement is possible through sustained effort. This can help children develop resilience, which is an essential quality in both academic and professional life. Moreover, such encouragement can motivate young people to set ambitious goals and make consistent efforts to achieve them.

However, telling children that they can achieve absolutely anything through hard work may have negative consequences. Success does not depend solely on effort; factors such as individual abilities, financial circumstances, social background and access to opportunities can also play a crucial role. Consequently, children may work extremely hard towards a particular objective but still fail to attain it. If they have been led to believe that effort always guarantees success, they may feel disappointed, frustrated or even blame themselves for circumstances beyond their control. Additionally, they may pursue unrealistic goals for too long instead of recognising their limitations and adapting their ambitions.

In conclusion, encouraging children to value hard work can significantly improve their motivation, confidence and resilience. Nevertheless, presenting effort as a guarantee of success can lead to unrealistic expectations and unnecessary disappointment. Therefore, children should be taught that hard work greatly increases their chances of achieving their goals, while accepting that failure and limitations are sometimes unavoidable.

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, resilience) and the disadvantages (unrealistic expectations, potential for frustration, ignoring external factors). The position is consistent throughout the essay, and the ideas are well-developed with logical explanations and relevant examples, such as the student struggling with mathematics. The conclusion effectively synthesises the arguments and provides a balanced final thought. The response is well-structured and directly answers the question asked.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between the advantages and disadvantages is smooth, using appropriate linking words like 'Moreover', 'However', and 'Consequently'. Paragraphing is used effectively to separate the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Cohesive devices are used naturally and accurately throughout the text, ensuring that the reader can follow the argument without difficulty. The flow of ideas is coherent and well-managed.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

You have used a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey your ideas with precision. Phrases like 'sustained effort', 'unrealistic expectations', and 'circumstances beyond their control' demonstrate a good command of language. The vocabulary is appropriate for an academic context and is used accurately. While the range is solid, incorporating a few more sophisticated or idiomatic expressions could elevate the score further. However, the current usage is precise and error-free, effectively supporting the development of your arguments.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses (e.g., 'If they have been led to believe that effort always guarantees success, they may feel disappointed...'). The majority of sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense usage is excellent. There are no significant grammatical errors that impede communication. The writing is fluent and demonstrates a high level of accuracy, which is consistent with the requirements for a high band score.

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