Band 4.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 4.0 · Cambridge IELTS 11 · 2026-08-08
IELTS Writing Task 2 question
News stories on TV and in newspapers are very often accompanied by pictures.
Some people say that these pictures are more effective than words.
What is your opinion about this?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Student answer (Band 4.0)
People have different views about whether news stories on TV newspaper are very often accompanied by pictures. Some people believe that pictures are more effective than words, whereas others argue that pictures are not that much useful . This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I agree with that pictures are the main part of thing in which we can see the whole story in it.
Body Paragraph 1 — View 1
On the one hand, some people believe that [view 1]. The main reason is that [reason]. This is because [explanation]. For example, [example]. Therefore, [result].
Body Paragraph 2 — View 2
On the other hand, others argue that [view 2]. One important reason is that [reason]. For instance, [example]. As a result, [result].
Your opinion
Personally, I believe that [your opinion]. Although [opposite view] may have some advantages, I think [your view] is more convincing because [reason].
Conclusion
In conclusion, both views have some merit. However, I believe that [your opinion] because [reason 1] and [reason 2].
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 3.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 4.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 4.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 4.0 |
| Overall | 4.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 3.0
The response fails to meet the minimum word count requirement of 250 words, reaching only 171 words. Furthermore, the submission is essentially a template containing placeholders like '[view 1]' and '[reason]' rather than a fully developed essay. Because the content is largely incomplete and lacks the necessary development of ideas, the task is not addressed. To improve, you must write a full, original response that explores the topic in depth, providing specific examples and a clear, sustained argument. Currently, the response does not demonstrate the ability to develop a position or support ideas, which is essential for a passing score.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 4.0
The essay structure is purely mechanical, relying on a template that lists paragraph headings rather than providing actual content. While the use of transition signals like 'On the one hand' and 'In conclusion' is present, they are used in a formulaic way that does not connect meaningful ideas. There is no logical progression of thought because the arguments are missing. To improve, focus on writing complete, cohesive paragraphs where each sentence flows naturally into the next, building a logical argument that supports your thesis statement throughout the essay.
Lexical Resource — Band 4.0
The vocabulary used in the introduction is basic and contains errors, such as 'TV newspaper' (missing a preposition) and 'not that much useful' (awkward phrasing). The remainder of the text consists of placeholders, which prevents an assessment of your ability to use a wide range of vocabulary. To achieve a higher band, you need to use a more varied range of vocabulary, including less common lexical items and precise collocations, and ensure that your word choices are natural and accurate in the context of the topic.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 4.0
The few sentences provided in the introduction contain grammatical errors, such as 'agree with that pictures are the main part of thing in which we can see the whole story in it', which is syntactically confused and wordy. The reliance on a template means there is no opportunity to demonstrate a range of complex grammatical structures. To improve, you should practice writing complex sentences with accurate subordination and coordination, and ensure that your grammar is controlled and error-free, as this is necessary for higher band scores.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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