Band 9.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 9.0 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-08-23
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 9.0)
### IELTS Writing Task 2 – Band 9
People have different views about whether friendships are stronger when individuals share the same opinions or when they occasionally disagree. While having like-minded friends can create harmony and understanding, I believe that friendships with people who hold different perspectives are ultimately more beneficial.
On the one hand, choosing friends with similar opinions can make relationships more comfortable and enjoyable. When people have comparable values, interests and attitudes, they are less likely to experience conflict and can communicate more easily. Such friendships may also provide emotional security because individuals feel understood by those around them. For example, friends who share similar views about lifestyle choices or career goals may find it easier to make plans and support each other's decisions.
On the other hand, friendships between people with different opinions can encourage personal growth. Disagreements, when expressed respectfully, expose individuals to new ideas and challenge assumptions that they may otherwise take for granted. This can improve critical thinking and help people make better-informed decisions. For instance, if two friends have different views about changing careers, discussing the advantages and disadvantages from different perspectives may help each person recognise factors they had previously overlooked. Moreover, learning to disagree politely is an important interpersonal skill that can be useful in both professional and personal situations.
In my opinion, the best friendships are not necessarily those without disagreements, but those in which differences can be discussed respectfully. Complete agreement may create a peaceful relationship, but excessive similarity can limit opportunities to learn and develop. Genuine friends should be able to challenge one another while still providing encouragement and support.
In conclusion, although friendships based on shared opinions can offer comfort and stability, I believe that having friends with different perspectives is more valuable because it promotes open-mindedness, critical thinking and personal development.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 9.0 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 9.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 9.0 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 9.0 |
| Overall | 9.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 9.0
The response fully addresses all parts of the prompt. You have provided a clear discussion of both viewpoints—the comfort of like-minded friendships and the growth potential of friendships with differing opinions—and articulated a strong, consistent personal position throughout the essay. The ideas are well-developed and supported by relevant, logical examples, such as the mention of career decision-making. The conclusion effectively synthesises the arguments while reinforcing your stance. The response is balanced, insightful, and directly answers the task requirements with a high level of maturity.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 9.0
The essay demonstrates a logical progression of ideas from start to finish. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, and the transition between the two opposing views is seamless, using effective signposting such as 'On the one hand' and 'On the other hand'. Cohesive devices are used naturally and unobtrusively, such as 'Moreover' and 'In conclusion', which help guide the reader through your argument. The paragraphing is skilful, with each section serving a distinct purpose in the overall structure of the response. There is no evidence of mechanical or repetitive usage.
Lexical Resource — Band 9.0
You demonstrate a wide and sophisticated range of vocabulary used with natural control. Phrases such as 'challenge assumptions', 'take for granted', and 'well-informed decisions' show a high level of lexical precision. The vocabulary is not only accurate but also contextually appropriate, contributing to the academic tone of the essay. There are no noticeable errors in word choice or collocation, and the language flows fluently throughout the text. The use of terms like 'interpersonal skill' and 'excessive similarity' further highlights your ability to express complex ideas with ease.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 9.0
The essay exhibits a wide range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences, conditional clauses, and varied subordination, all used with full flexibility and accuracy. Punctuation is handled perfectly, and there are no grammatical slips to be found. The control over sentence structure allows for a sophisticated flow of ideas, and the accuracy is maintained throughout the entire piece. Every sentence is error-free, demonstrating a mastery of English grammar that is consistent with the highest band descriptors.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
Browse more IELTS Writing model answers or get your own writing scored by the same AI examiner.