Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-09-12
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 6.5)
Nowadays, people often like to try new cuisines, visit new places, and explore new cultures and traditions. However, some people don't like to leave their comfort zone and prefer things they already know. In this essay, we will discuss both views, and before a relevant conclusion, I will give my own opinion.
On the one hand, some people are fond of experiencing new adventures, and they would love to explore new places. One of the main reasons for this practice is that they want to learn about other cultures. Other than this, working professionals always go to new places to get a break from their busy schedule, so that they can return to work with a fresh mind. Moving forward, one of the most common reasons is social media and advertising; people are easily influenced by their favorite stars and influencers; therefore, they also want to go to places visited by their favorite celebrity. Lastly, some people are keen to know about new places and their famous dishes, so they go there to spend quality time with their family.
On the other hand, some people do not want to try new things, as they are afraid of wasting money. Moreover, they are so used to their comfort, and they do not want to leave it to experience new things. Furthermore, some people have health issues, and they can not try new food for fear of getting sick; instead, they always try known places. In addition to this, nowadays many uncertain things are happening, such as the war between the US and Israel, and people avoid going out and stay home to avoid mishaps.
In my opinion, sometimes it is necessary to leave your comfort zone and go out to boost your confidence and learn new things; however, regularly, people should try places they have heard about and have prior experience with, so that they do not waste their money.
In conclusion, I would like to say that once in a while it is good to try new places to enhance knowledge, but prior research is needed so they can get the full advantage.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 7.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 6.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 6.0 |
| Overall | 6.5 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0
The response addresses all parts of the task by discussing both attitudes towards trying new things versus sticking to the familiar, and it provides a clear personal opinion. The ideas are relevant and supported with explanations, such as mentioning cultural exploration, stress relief, financial concerns, and health issues. However, some points, particularly the mention of the US and Israel conflict, feel slightly tangential or underdeveloped in relation to everyday personal choices. The position is maintained throughout the essay. Overall, the task is well covered, aligning closely with the requirements for a Band 7 performance.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0
The essay is logically organised with a clear overall progression. The introduction sets out the essay's structure, and distinct body paragraphs deal with the two opposing views. Cohesive devices are used to guide the reader, such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'In conclusion'. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate different arguments and viewpoints. While referencing and sequencing are generally clear, some transitions feel slightly mechanical or formulaic, such as 'Moving forward' and 'Lastly', which prevents the cohesion from reaching the higher bands. Nonetheless, the overall structure supports a logical flow throughout.
Lexical Resource — Band 6.0
The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow some flexibility and precision, such as 'comfort zone', 'cultural exploration', and 'social media and influencers'. There are attempts to use less common lexical items, but occasional inaccuracies occur, such as 'uncertain things' instead of 'unforeseen events' or 'uncertain times'. Spelling is generally accurate, and word choices adequately convey the intended meaning without impeding communication. The lexical range is appropriate for a competent performance, fitting comfortably within the Band 6.0 to 6.5 criteria, leaning towards a solid 6.0 due to some repetitive or slightly unnatural phrasing.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 6.0
The response demonstrates a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Complex structures are attempted successfully, such as 'One of the main reasons for this practice is that they want to learn about other cultures' and 'Although some people are fond of...'. There are some grammatical errors and awkward phrasing, such as 'before a relevant conclusion, I will give my own opinion' and 'can not try new food'. Punctuation is generally sound, and errors in grammar do not impede communication. The control over grammar is typical of a Band 6 level, showing adequate command with occasional lapses.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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