Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · 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 6.5)

In recent years, trying new experiences rather than staying with familiar activities has become an increasingly debated issue. People hold different views on this matter because it can significantly influence both individuals and society. While there are reasonable arguments on both sides, I believe that trying new things can provide greater opportunities for personal growth. This essay will explain the main reasons for my position.

To begin with, one important aspect is that trying new things can help people gain valuable experiences and develop confidence. This is particularly significant because new experiences can improve people's knowledge and understanding of the world. For example, people who visit new places can learn about different cultures and ways of life. Therefore, this can provide valuable benefits and should be taken into consideration when evaluating this issue.

Furthermore, another significant point is that familiar activities can provide comfort and reduce unnecessary stress. This is important because it can have a considerable impact on both individuals and the wider community. For instance, people who prefer familiar food or places may feel more comfortable and confident in their daily lives. Consequently, this can contribute positively to the overall situation and produce better outcomes in the long term.

However, it is also important to consider that constantly trying unfamiliar things can sometimes create stress and uncertainty. This concern is understandable because people's needs and circumstances can vary considerably. Nevertheless, I believe that people should try new experiences when suitable while maintaining some familiar routines. If this matter is approached appropriately, it is possible to achieve positive outcomes while reducing potential difficulties.

In conclusion, trying new things can encourage personal growth, while familiar activities can provide comfort and stability. This is mainly because new experiences can develop confidence and familiar activities can reduce stress. Taking these factors into consideration, I believe that a balanced and practical approach can produce better outcomes for both individuals and society.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 6.5

The response addresses all parts of the task by discussing both attitudes towards trying new things and keeping familiar activities, while also providing a clear personal opinion. The position is maintained throughout the essay. However, some of the supporting ideas tend to be somewhat repetitive and lack specific, concrete development. For instance, mentioning that people who visit new places can learn about different cultures is a relevant point, but it remains at a general level rather than being fully extended with rich examples. Nonetheless, the task is successfully covered, earning a solid Band 6.5.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.0

The essay displays a clear logical organisation and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, beginning with a proper introduction, followed by body paragraphs discussing new experiences, familiar activities, and a balanced conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'To begin with', 'Furthermore', and 'However' are used effectively to guide the reader. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, ensuring the structure supports the overall argument. Referencing is generally clear, resulting in a strong coherence score that matches Band 7.0.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.0

The student uses an adequate range of vocabulary suitable for the task, with expressions such as 'increasingly debated issue', 'personal growth', and 'unnecessary stress'. There are some attempts to use less common vocabulary, but the lexical choices sometimes rely on repetitive patterns, such as repeatedly using words like 'significant', 'important', and 'considerable'. While communication is never impeded and spelling is accurate throughout, the range lacks the flexibility and precision required for higher bands. Therefore, a Band 6.0 is appropriate.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The writer demonstrates a good mix of simple and complex sentence forms, incorporating subordinating clauses effectively (e.g., 'While there are reasonable arguments on both sides, I believe that...'). There is good control of basic grammar and punctuation. While occasional minor awkwardness or repetitive phrasing appears, errors are infrequent and do not impede communication at all. The majority of sentences are grammatically sound, satisfying the criteria for Band 7.0.

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