Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.5 · Cambridge IELTS 16 · 2026-09-17

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 7.5)

The debate over whether people should embrace unfamiliar experiences or continue with familiar practices is contentious. While some prefer established routines for stability, others enjoy experimenting with new things. In my view, embracing novelty is more beneficial because it adds excitement to life, broadens people's perspectives and enriches their experiences.

On the one hand, exploring new experiences, such as visiting unfamiliar places and trying different types of food, can bring adventure into people’s lives. More importantly, these activities can help individuals to escape the monotony of daily life. Furthermore, travelling to new destinations and sampling different cuisines can broaden people’s knowledge and enrich their life experiences. For example, travelling to a new country can provide an opportunity to gain insight into a different culture, and adapt to new surroundings. Therefore, people who actively seek novelty may benefit not only from greater excitement but also from a broader understanding of the world and personal growth.

On the other hand, stability is highly important in life. Although new experiences can be stimulating, they also create uncertainty, particularly for people already facing pressure in their lives. In such circumstances, following familiar routines and visiting known places can provide a sense of comfort and peace. For instance, after a stressful week, people may order their favourite comfort food at the weekend because they know what to expect and can therefore avoid unnecessary surprises. Thus, familiar places, foods and activities can provide peace of mind in otherwise stressful lives.

In conclusion, although familiar things can offer comfort and stability, I believe embracing new experiences is more beneficial because it can alleviate daily boredom, increase cultural awareness and broaden people's understanding of the world. Therefore, people should make greater efforts to explore unfamiliar experiences regularly in order to develop their personality, enrich their lives and experience excitement.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response fully addresses all parts of the task by discussing both attitudes towards new versus familiar experiences and clearly stating a personal position. The introduction presents a well-defined stance that is maintained throughout the essay. The body paragraphs effectively explore both sides: the first body paragraph highlights the benefits of novelty, such as adventure, breaking monotony, and cultural insight, supported by a relevant example of travelling. The second body paragraph acknowledges the value of stability and stress relief, supported by an appropriate example of ordering comfort food. Ideas are well-developed, extended, and supported appropriately, aligning strongly with the Band 7 descriptors.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. The response is divided into logical paragraphs, with a distinct introduction, two body paragraphs representing opposing views, and a coherent conclusion. Cohesive devices are used effectively and flexibly to guide the reader through the arguments, as seen with transition words like 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', and 'Thus'. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring each paragraph has a central topic that is properly developed. Referencing is clear and natural, warranting a solid Band 7 rating.

Lexical Resource — Band 7.0

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision, suitable for the task. Less common lexical items are employed with reasonable awareness of style and collocation, such as 'contentious', 'monotony', 'novelty', and 'uncertainty'. While the vocabulary is adequate and allows the message to be communicated clearly, it occasionally lacks the sophisticated or wide-ranging fluency required to reach a Band 8. Word choice is generally natural, and spelling and word formation are accurate throughout the response.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0

The writer demonstrates good control of grammar and punctuation, employing a variety of complex sentence structures effectively. Frequent error-free sentences are evident, alongside complex forms such as conditional and subordinate clauses (e.g., 'While some prefer established routines for stability, others enjoy experimenting with new things' and 'Although new experiences can be stimulating, they also create uncertainty'). Minor slips or non-systematic errors are rare, and punctuation is handled with a high degree of accuracy. The grammatical control is strong and consistent, fitting comfortably within the Band 8 criteria.

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