Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-09-14

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)

People's attitudes towards novelty vary considerably: some actively seek out unfamiliar experiences, while others find comfort in routine and the tried-and-tested. Both approaches have their merits, and in my view, a balance between the two tends to serve people best.

Those who enjoy exploring new places and cuisines often argue that such experiences broaden perspective and foster adaptability. Travelling to an unfamiliar country, for instance, exposes a person to different customs, languages, and ways of thinking, lessons that are difficult to absorb from within one's comfort zone. Similarly, sampling unfamiliar cuisines can challenge preconceptions and cultivate a genuine appreciation for other cultures. For many, this sense of discovery is itself a source of fulfilment.

On the other hand, those who prefer familiarity are not necessarily resistant to growth; rather, they often value the stability and reliability that routine provides. Returning to a favourite restaurant or revisiting a well-loved holiday destination allows one to deepen an existing appreciation rather than constantly starting afresh. In an increasingly unpredictable world, this preference for the familiar can offer a valuable sense of psychological security, particularly during periods of stress or change.

In my opinion, neither attitude is inherently superior; the ideal approach depends on context and temperament. I personally lean towards trying new things, having moved abroad and adapted to an unfamiliar culture myself, an experience that reshaped my outlook considerably. Yet I also recognise the comfort of returning to familiar routines after a demanding week. Ultimately, a life that balances curiosity with comfort is likely to be the most fulfilling one.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 8.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both attitudes towards novelty and familiarity and providing a clear, well-supported personal opinion. In the second and third paragraphs, the writer explores the benefits of both sides effectively, citing relevant points such as adaptability, broadening perspectives, and psychological security. The conclusion neatly synthesises these arguments and presents a balanced personal view. Ideas are well-developed and supported with relevant examples, such as travelling and moving abroad. The response meets all the requirements of Band 8 for this criterion.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct central topic, moving smoothly from an introduction to the exploration of trying new things, the counter-perspective of valuing familiarity, and finally the writer's balanced conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'Similarly', 'On the other hand', and 'Ultimately' are used naturally and effectively to guide the reader through the argument. Paragraphing is logical and contributes strongly to the overall coherence of the response, easily satisfying Band 8 descriptors.

Lexical Resource — Band 8.0

The student exhibits a wide and flexible range of vocabulary suited to the prompt. Less common lexical items and collocations are used skilfully throughout the essay, such as 'novelty', 'actively seek out', 'tried-and-tested', 'cultivate a genuine appreciation', and 'psychological security'. Word choice is generally precise and natural, with only very rare minor slips, if any. The vocabulary allows the writer to convey subtle nuances of meaning effectively, placing the response comfortably within the Band 8 criteria.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The response features a wide range of complex grammatical structures used with a high degree of accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free, showcasing excellent control over subordination, participial phrases, and varied clause structures (e.g., 'Returning to a favourite restaurant or revisiting a well-loved holiday destination allows one to deepen...'). Punctuation is handled adeptly, and any occasional errors are absent, demonstrating a level of grammatical command that aligns with a Band 8 score.

See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.

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