Band 7.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer

Overall Band Score: 7.0 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-08-19

IELTS Writing Task 2 question

Some people think it's better to choose friends who always have the same opinions as them. Other people believe it's good to have friends who sometimes disagree with them.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

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

 

Student answer (Band 7.0)

A few people prefer to be friends with those who mostly have similar views as them, while others maintain that it is better to have peers who have different viewpoints. I believe having similar thinking leads to a longer friendship and avoids misunderstandings in the relationships.

On the one hand, friends with similar thinking can support each other in vulnerable situations. To elaborate, if friends have shared perspectives, they participate in similar activities and social events, and also support each other in any life crisis. This not only provides emotional comfort and reduces daily stress, but also provides a powerful sense of validation. Furthermore, when the core views align, we share a mutual understanding that makes communication smooth, empathetic, and deeply supportive. For instance, business partners who share similar opinions have fewer arguments and reach easy agreements on how to run a business successfully with a smooth cooperation.

On the other hand, being friends with ones who have opposite viewpoints can sometimes result in formidable situations. Since such individuals might not agree on some critical aspects of life, it could result in misunderstandings and bitterness in their relationships. While in a few instances, it could assist in understanding an opposite viewpoint which results in personal growth and critical thinking; however, I still maintain that it is a rare occurrence and not so helpful in day-to-day matters.

To sum up, although associates with opposite viewpoints might be useful in some instances, on a day-to-day basis having friends and partners with similar thinking avoids conflicts and brings more peace to life, which makes relationships last lifetimes.

AI examiner evaluation

Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.0

The response addresses all parts of the prompt, discussing both viewpoints and providing a clear personal opinion. The ideas are relevant and generally well-supported, particularly in the first body paragraph regarding the benefits of shared perspectives. However, the discussion of the opposing view is slightly less developed; while you acknowledge that disagreement can lead to growth, you dismiss it quickly as 'not so helpful'. To reach a higher band, ensure that both sides of the argument are explored with equal depth and balance. The position is consistent throughout the essay, and the conclusion effectively summarizes your stance.

Coherence and Cohesion — Band 7.5

The essay is logically organized with a clear introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'Furthermore', and 'To sum up' are used effectively to guide the reader through your arguments. Paragraphing is used appropriately to separate distinct ideas. The progression of ideas is smooth, and referencing is generally clear. To improve, ensure that the transition between the two body paragraphs is slightly more nuanced to better reflect the contrast between the two viewpoints, rather than relying solely on standard signposting phrases.

Lexical Resource — Band 6.5

You demonstrate a sufficient range of vocabulary to convey your ideas with precision. Phrases like 'vulnerable situations', 'mutual understanding', and 'formidable situations' show an attempt to use less common lexical items. There are occasional minor inaccuracies in collocation, such as 'formidable situations' to describe disagreements, which is slightly unnatural in this context. However, these do not impede communication. To improve, focus on using more precise collocations and idiomatic expressions that fit the formal tone of an IELTS essay, ensuring that your word choices are always natural and contextually appropriate.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 7.0

The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. You demonstrate good control over basic grammar, and your sentences are generally error-free, which makes the text easy to follow. There are some minor issues, such as the phrasing 'friends with ones who have opposite viewpoints', which is slightly clunky. Additionally, ensure that punctuation is used consistently, particularly with complex sentences. While you have a good grasp of grammar, incorporating a wider variety of complex structures—such as conditional sentences or passive voice—would help demonstrate greater flexibility and control, moving your score toward the higher bands.

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

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