Band 8.0 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Answer
Overall Band Score: 8.0 · Cambridge IELTS 14 · 2026-09-18
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 8.0)
Some people believe that it is better to have friends who share the same opinions, while others argue that friendships are more beneficial when people occasionally disagree. Although having similar views can make relationships more comfortable, I believe that differences of opinion can make friendships stronger and more intellectually valuable.
On the one hand, people often prefer friends who think in a similar way because this can reduce conflict and create a sense of understanding. Friends with common values and beliefs may find it easier to make decisions, discuss personal matters and spend time together without frequent arguments. For example, people who have similar attitudes towards lifestyle, money or family responsibilities may understand each other's choices more easily. As a result, such friendships can feel stable and supportive.
On the other hand, having friends who sometimes disagree can be highly beneficial. Different opinions expose people to new perspectives and encourage them to think more critically. A friend who respectfully challenges an idea may help a person notice weaknesses in their reasoning or consider an issue from another point of view. In addition, learning to handle disagreements calmly can improve communication skills and make relationships more mature. However, disagreements should remain respectful, as constant conflict could damage a friendship.
In my opinion, friendships do not require complete agreement. While sharing some fundamental values is important, occasional differences in opinion can make conversations more interesting and contribute to personal growth.
In conclusion, similar opinions can make friendships easier, but respectful disagreement can broaden people's thinking. Therefore, I believe a balance between shared values and different viewpoints creates healthier friendships.
AI examiner evaluation
| Criterion | Band |
|---|---|
| Task Achievement / Task Response | 7.5 |
| Coherence and Cohesion | 8.0 |
| Lexical Resource | 7.5 |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | 8.0 |
| Overall | 8.0 |
Task Achievement / Task Response — Band 7.5
The student has fully addressed all parts of the task. Both views—choosing friends with the same opinions versus friends who disagree—are discussed in a balanced manner. The writer's position is clear throughout the response, starting from the introduction and reinforced in the conclusion. Ideas are well developed and extended with relevant explanations, such as how shared opinions reduce conflict and how differing opinions encourage critical thinking. Examples are provided to support the arguments, fulfilling the requirements for a Band 7 or Band 8 in Task Achievement. The response demonstrates a clear understanding of the prompt and explores the topic effectively.
Coherence and Cohesion — Band 8.0
The text is logically organised with a clear progression from introduction to body paragraphs and conclusion. Paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct aspect of the prompt (view one, view two, and personal opinion). Cohesive devices such as 'On the one hand', 'On the other hand', 'As a result', and 'However' are used flexibly and accurately to guide the reader through the arguments. Referencing is clear throughout, making the overall arrangement very coherent. This aligns well with the Band 7 and Band 8 descriptors for Coherence and Cohesion.
Lexical Resource — Band 7.5
The student demonstrates a sufficient and appropriate range of vocabulary for the task, successfully incorporating less common items with good awareness of collocation and style. Examples include 'intellectually valuable', 'reduce conflict', 'critical thinking', and 'fundamental values'. Word choices are precise, and there are no noticeable spelling or word-formation errors. The vocabulary allows for flexibility and precision, supporting the communication effectively and placing the response securely within the Band 7 range, moving towards Band 8.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy — Band 8.0
The student displays a strong control of grammar and punctuation, using a good variety of complex structures alongside simpler forms. Examples of complex sentences include conditional and concessive clauses such as 'Although having similar views can make relationships more comfortable, I believe that...' and 'Friends with common values and beliefs may find it easier to...'. The majority of sentences are error-free, and punctuation is handled accurately throughout. The occasional errors that might be expected at Band 7 are virtually absent, showing a high level of grammatical accuracy.
See this exact question answered at other band scores — the same prompt compared across bands.
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