Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 15 · 2026-09-30

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 6.5)

In some societies, children are encouraged to believe that they can achieve anything if they work hard enough. This message can have both advantages and disadvantages, as it may motivate children to work towards their goals but can also create unrealistic expectations.

There are several advantages to giving children this message. Firstly, it can motivate them to work harder and remain persistent when they face difficulties. If children believe that their efforts can lead to success, they are less likely to give up easily. Secondly, this belief can help them develop self-confidence and a positive attitude towards challenges. For example, a child who believes that hard work can improve their academic performance may spend more time studying and gradually achieve better results.

However, there are also some disadvantages to giving children this message. Firstly, it may create unrealistic expectations because success does not always depend on hard work alone. Factors such as talent, opportunities and personal circumstances can also affect a person’s achievements. Secondly, children may experience stress and disappointment when they work hard but still fail to reach their goals. For example, a student may study for many hours but receive a low grade, which could make them believe that they are not capable enough.

In conclusion, telling children that they can achieve anything through hard work can motivate them and build their confidence. However, it may also create unrealistic expectations and cause stress or disappointment when they fail to achieve their goals. Therefore, children should be encouraged to work hard while also understanding that success can depend on various factors.

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 with hard work. A clear position is established in the introduction and maintained throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as a child improving academic performance or facing disappointment after studying for many hours. The arguments are extended logically, showing a strong understanding of the prompt. The response meets the length requirement easily, providing a balanced and thorough discussion that aligns well with the Band 7 and Band 8 descriptors for Task Achievement.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, starting with an introduction, followed by distinct body paragraphs for advantages and disadvantages, and ending with a concise conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'Firstly', 'Secondly', and 'However' are used effectively to guide the reader through the arguments. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, and referencing is clear and consistent. The flow of ideas is smooth, fitting the Band 7 descriptors well.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student uses an adequate and appropriate range of vocabulary for the task, successfully incorporating terms such as 'persistent', 'unrealistic expectations', 'personal circumstances', and 'disappointment'. There are appropriate attempts to use less common lexical items like 'academic performance' and 'positive attitude'. Word choice and spelling are generally accurate, and occasional minor imperfections do not impede communication. The vocabulary demonstrates the precision and flexibility expected around the Band 7 level.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 6.5

The response features a good mix of simple and complex sentence structures, including conditional clauses ('If children believe that...') and relative clauses ('a child who believes that...'). Grammar and punctuation are handled with good control, resulting in many error-free sentences. While there are a few minor errors or slightly repetitive structures, they do not impede communication at all. The grammatical control and range shown throughout the text fully support a Band 7 score.

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