Band 6.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 6.5 · Cambridge IELTS 18 · 2026-09-25

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

In many countries, people are now living longer than ever before. Some people say an aging population creates problems for governments. Other people think there are benefits if society has more elderly people.

To what extent do the advantages of having an aging population outweigh the disadvantages?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Student answer (Band 6.5)

In many countries, people are living longer because of improvements in healthcare, living standards and technology. Although an aging population can create certain difficulties for governments, I believe that the advantages can outweigh the disadvantages if older people are properly supported and encouraged to remain active in society.

One major disadvantage of an aging population is the increased pressure on public services. As people become older, they are more likely to require medical treatment, pensions and social care. This can place a significant financial burden on governments, particularly when the number of retired people is much higher than the working population. In addition, a smaller workforce may result in lower tax revenues. For example, governments in countries such as Japan have had to deal with the economic challenges associated with a rapidly aging population.

However, there are several important benefits to having more elderly people in society. Firstly, older people possess valuable knowledge and experience that can be passed on to younger generations. They can provide advice to younger workers, help with childcare and contribute to their communities. Secondly, many elderly people remain physically and mentally active and continue working after the traditional retirement age. This allows them to contribute to the economy while also reducing pressure on pension systems. For instance, experienced professionals can continue working part-time or act as mentors for younger employees.

In conclusion, an aging population can increase government spending on healthcare, pensions and social services. Nevertheless, older people can make valuable contributions through their experience, employment and involvement in their communities. Therefore, I believe that the advantages of an aging population can outweigh its disadvantages when governments provide appropriate support and opportunities for older citizens.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response: Band 6.5

The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt by discussing both the problems and benefits of an aging population and clearly presenting a well-developed position throughout the essay. The introduction establishes a clear stance that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages given proper support. In the body paragraphs, the student provides relevant examples, such as mentioning healthcare and pension burdens alongside the wisdom and mentorship contributions of older adults. The ideas are extended and supported effectively, meeting the criteria for Band 7.0.

Coherence and Cohesion: Band 6.5

The essay demonstrates a clear logical organization and progression throughout. Each paragraph has a distinct focus, moving smoothly from the introduction to disadvantages, advantages, and a balanced conclusion. Cohesive devices are used flexibly and appropriately, such as 'One major disadvantage,' 'In addition,' and 'Nevertheless,' creating clear relationships between ideas. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, guiding the reader effortlessly through the argument. Overall, the structural flow aligns comfortably with Band 7.0 descriptors.

Lexical Resource: Band 6.5

The student uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with adequate flexibility and precision for the task. Less common lexical items such as 'financial burden,' 'tax revenues,' 'traditional retirement age,' and 'mentors' are deployed successfully, showing an awareness of collocations and topic-specific terminology. While the vocabulary is not consistently sophisticated enough to push into the higher bands, it is accurate, appropriate, and allows the message to be communicated with clarity. This performance fits the Band 7.0 profile well.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Band 7.0

The writer produces a good variety of complex structures alongside simple sentence forms, demonstrating frequent error-free sentences and solid overall control of grammar and punctuation. Examples such as 'Although an aging population can create certain difficulties for governments, I believe that...' and 'older people possess valuable knowledge and experience that can be passed on...' illustrate a strong command of subordinate clauses. Errors are very rare, meaning the grammatical framework comfortably supports a Band 7.0 or even an 8.0 level, reflecting a high degree of accuracy.

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