Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-08-25

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people like to try new things, for example, places to visit and types of food. Other people prefer to keep doing things they are familiar with.

Discuss both these attitudes and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

 

Student answer (Band 8.0)

In modern society, people have different attitudes towards new experiences. While some individuals enjoy exploring unfamiliar places, trying different cuisines and participating in new activities, others feel more comfortable following familiar routines. Although both approaches have their own advantages, I believe that trying new things is generally more beneficial because it promotes personal growth and creates valuable life experiences.

On the one hand, there are several reasons why people prefer to stick to things they already know. The most significant reason is comfort and security. Familiar activities are usually predictable, which reduces the possibility of disappointment or unnecessary stress. For instance, some people prefer eating at the same restaurants because they already know the quality of the food and service. Similarly, travellers may repeatedly visit the same destination because they are familiar with the surroundings. Therefore, maintaining familiar routines can provide people with a sense of stability and allow them to make decisions with greater confidence.

On the other hand, trying new things can significantly broaden an individual's perspective. Visiting unfamiliar destinations allows people to experience different cultures, traditions and ways of life. Likewise, experimenting with different types of food can introduce individuals to customs that they might not otherwise encounter. More importantly, stepping outside one's comfort zone can help develop confidence, adaptability and independence. For example, a person who travels to a foreign country for the first time may initially experience difficulties communicating or navigating an unfamiliar environment. However, overcoming these challenges can make them more confident and open-minded.

In my view, people should be willing to experience new things while maintaining some familiar aspects of their lives. Although routines provide stability, constantly avoiding unfamiliar experiences may limit opportunities for personal development. A balanced approach enables individuals to enjoy the security of familiar activities while remaining open to new opportunities.

In conclusion, familiar experiences can provide comfort, predictability and stability, whereas trying new things can encourage personal growth and broaden people's perspectives. While both attitudes have advantages, I believe that being open to new experiences is ultimately more rewarding, provided that people make sensible and informed choices.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have clearly discussed both attitudes—the preference for familiarity and the preference for new experiences—and provided a clear, consistent personal opinion throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed, with logical reasons and relevant examples provided for each perspective. For instance, the discussion on 'comfort and security' versus 'personal growth' is well-supported. The conclusion effectively synthesizes your position, ensuring the task requirements are met with a high level of clarity and focus.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay is logically organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph has a central theme, and the transition between paragraphs is smooth, using appropriate cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion'. The use of referencing is accurate, and the flow of information is natural. The paragraphing is used effectively to separate the different viewpoints, which helps the reader follow your argument without difficulty. The structure is coherent and professional throughout.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.5

You demonstrate a good range of vocabulary that is appropriate for the task. You use some less common items effectively, such as 'predictable', 'adaptability', and 'informed choices'. The word choice is generally precise, and there are no significant errors in collocation. While the vocabulary is sufficient and accurate, incorporating a few more sophisticated or idiomatic expressions could elevate the response further. However, the current range is more than adequate for a high band score, as it allows for clear and precise communication of your ideas.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences with subordinate clauses (e.g., 'While some individuals enjoy... others feel more comfortable...'). The majority of your sentences are error-free, and your control over punctuation and tense usage is excellent. There are no noticeable grammatical errors that impede communication. The variety of sentence forms used contributes to a fluent and sophisticated reading experience. Your control over complex structures is consistent, which is a hallmark of a high-scoring response.

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