Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-09-17

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 7.0)

In some cultures, children are often told that they can achieve anything if they work hard enough. This message can have both positive and negative effects on children. In my opinion, although it can encourage children to work harder and become more confident, it may also create unrealistic expectations about success.

One major advantage of this message is that it can motivate children to put more effort into their studies and other activities. If children believe that hard work can help them achieve their goals, they may be less likely to give up when they face difficulties. For example, a student who finds mathematics difficult may continue practising instead of deciding that they are simply not good at the subject. This attitude can help children develop determination, discipline and a willingness to learn from their mistakes. Furthermore, such encouragement can increase their self-confidence and make them more willing to try new things.

However, there are also some disadvantages to telling children that they can achieve anything through hard work alone. Success does not always depend only on effort. Other factors, such as natural ability, financial circumstances, education, opportunities and sometimes luck, can also influence people's achievements. Therefore, children may become disappointed if they work very hard but still fail to reach their goals. They might wrongly believe that failure means they did not work hard enough. This can lead to stress, low self-esteem and a fear of failure. For instance, a child may work extremely hard to become a professional athlete, but physical ability and competition can still prevent them from achieving this goal.

In conclusion, telling children that hard work can help them achieve their goals has important benefits, particularly in developing motivation and perseverance. However, parents and teachers should also explain that effort is important but it cannot guarantee every desired outcome. This balanced message can encourage children to work hard while also helping them deal with failure realistically.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both the advantages and disadvantages of telling children they can achieve anything through hard work. The writer presents a clear and well-developed position throughout the essay. The introduction establishes a balanced view, which is then elaborated upon in the body paragraphs. The advantages are supported with a relevant example about a student studying mathematics, while the disadvantages are illustrated with the example of a professional athlete and the realities of natural ability and circumstances. The ideas are extended logically without unnecessary repetition. The response meets all the requirements for a Band 7 or Band 8 descriptor, as all parts are addressed well with good development.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay demonstrates clear logical organization and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from the introduction to the advantages, the disadvantages, and a thoughtful conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'One major advantage', 'Furthermore', 'However', and 'Therefore' are used effectively to guide the reader through the argument. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring the text is easy to follow. Referencing is clear, and the overall progression of ideas is seamless. This level of control aligns comfortably with the Band 8 descriptors for Coherence and Cohesion.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

The writer uses a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary for the task, demonstrating flexibility and precision. Words and phrases such as 'unrealistic expectations', 'determination', 'discipline', and 'perseverance' show a good command of less common lexical items. Collocations are generally natural, and there are no noticeable spelling or word-choice errors that impede communication. While the vocabulary is fluent and precise, it stops just short of the wide, flexible, and highly sophisticated control required for a Band 8. Therefore, a solid Band 7 is awarded for effective lexical resource.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.5

The essay exhibits a wide range of structures, incorporating both simple and complex sentences effectively. The writer demonstrates good control of complex clauses, such as 'If children believe that hard work can help them achieve their goals, they may be less likely to give up when they face difficulties.' Punctuation and grammar are handled well throughout the text, with the majority of sentences being completely error-free. The rare minor slips do not impede communication in any way. This demonstrates the strong control and frequent error-free sentences typical of a Band 8 performance.

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