Quick reference: This page contains 10 sample {ielts} {task2} essays from Band 6.0 to Band 8.0, covering opinion, discussion, problem-solution, advantages-disadvantages, and two-part question types. Each essay shows exactly what examiners reward at each band level.
{ielts} {writingTask2} Sample Essays with Band Scores
Oleksii VasylenkoIELTS 8.0
Founder & IELTS Band Score Specialist
Study real {ielts} {writingTask2} essays scored by certified examiners. Each essay includes a detailed band breakdown across all four criteria: {taskAchievement}, {coherenceCohesion}, {lexicalResource}, and {grammaticalRange}.
Essays reviewed and scored May 2026. Band scores calibrated against official {ielts} descriptors.
Band 6.0 Sample Essays
Band 6 essays demonstrate competent handling of the task with adequate vocabulary and grammar. Ideas are relevant but may lack depth or development.
Band 6.0Opinion (Agree/Disagree)268 words
Question
Some people believe that children should not be allowed to use smartphones until they are at least 12 years old. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Sample Response
In today's world, smartphones have become an important part of daily life. Some people think children under 12 should not use smartphones. I partially agree with this view because while smartphones can be harmful for young children, they also offer some educational benefits.
On the one hand, there are good reasons to keep smartphones away from young children. First, children can become addicted to games and social media, which affects their studies and physical health. Many children spend hours watching videos instead of playing outside or reading books. Second, young children may see inappropriate content online that they are too young to understand.
On the other hand, smartphones can be useful for education. There are many apps that help children learn mathematics, languages, and science in an interesting way. Also, children need to learn how to use technology because it is essential for their future careers. If they only start using smartphones at 12, they may fall behind their classmates.
In conclusion, I believe that a complete ban on smartphones for children under 12 is too strict. Instead, parents should limit screen time and monitor what their children do on their phones. This way, children can benefit from technology while avoiding its dangers.
Band Score Breakdown
{taskAchievement}
6.0
{coherenceCohesion}
6.0
{lexicalResource}
6.0
{grammaticalRange}
6.0
Overall Band
6.0
Examiner Commentary
The essay addresses the topic and presents a clear position with supporting ideas. However, ideas are somewhat generic and lack depth. Paragraphing is logical but cohesive devices are mechanical ('On the one hand', 'On the other hand'). Vocabulary is adequate but limited to common words. Grammar shows a mix of simple and complex sentences with some errors that do not impede communication.
Band 6.0Problem & Solution272 words
Question
Air pollution in many cities around the world is increasing. What are the causes of this problem and what measures can governments take to reduce it?
Sample Response
Air pollution is a serious problem in many cities today. This essay will discuss the main causes of air pollution and suggest some solutions that governments can implement.
The main cause of air pollution is the increasing number of cars and trucks on the roads. Vehicles produce harmful gases like carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide, which make the air dirty. Another cause is factories that release smoke and chemicals into the atmosphere. In developing countries, many factories do not have proper filters to clean their emissions. Additionally, the burning of coal and gas for electricity contributes to poor air quality.
Governments can take several steps to address this problem. Firstly, they can invest in public transportation systems to reduce the number of private cars on the roads. If buses and trains are cheap and convenient, more people will use them. Secondly, governments can create stricter laws for factories regarding pollution limits. Companies that break these rules should receive heavy fines. Finally, governments should promote renewable energy sources like solar and wind power to replace fossil fuels.
In conclusion, air pollution is mainly caused by vehicles, factories, and fossil fuels. Governments can reduce this problem by improving public transport, enforcing pollution laws, and supporting clean energy.
Band Score Breakdown
{taskAchievement}
6.0
{coherenceCohesion}
6.5
{lexicalResource}
6.0
{grammaticalRange}
6.0
Overall Band
6.0
Examiner Commentary
The essay covers both causes and solutions as required. Ideas are relevant but predictable and lack original analysis. Organization is clear with good paragraph structure. Cohesive devices are used but sometimes formulaic ('Firstly', 'Secondly', 'Finally'). Vocabulary is sufficient but relies on common collocations. Grammar is generally accurate with limited range.
Band 7.0 Sample Essays
Band 7 essays show good command of English with clear development of ideas. Vocabulary is varied and grammar shows a good range of structures.
Band 7.0Discussion (Both Views)285 words
Question
Some people think that all university students should study whatever they like. Others believe that they should only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those related to science and technology. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Sample Response
The question of whether university students should have complete freedom in choosing their subjects or be directed towards practically useful fields is a matter of ongoing debate. While there are compelling arguments for guiding students towards market-relevant disciplines, I believe that academic freedom, balanced with career awareness, produces the most well-rounded graduates.
Proponents of restricting choices to applied subjects argue that higher education represents a significant investment of public and private resources. From this perspective, it seems logical that graduates should emerge with skills that directly contribute to economic productivity. Countries facing skills shortages in engineering, healthcare, or technology may struggle to compete globally if too many students pursue subjects with limited employment prospects. Furthermore, students themselves may benefit from studying disciplines with clearer career pathways, reducing the risk of unemployment after graduation.
However, limiting academic choice overlooks several critical factors. Innovation frequently emerges at the intersection of diverse fields — philosophy informs artificial intelligence ethics, history shapes political policy, and psychology underpins user experience design. A society composed entirely of technical specialists would lack the critical thinkers, artists, and communicators who enrich cultural life and challenge established norms. Moreover, students who are passionate about their chosen field tend to achieve higher academic standards and develop transferable skills such as analysis, communication, and creative problem-solving.
In my view, universities should maintain broad subject availability while ensuring students receive honest guidance about employment realities. This approach respects individual agency while acknowledging practical considerations, ultimately producing graduates who are both fulfilled and employable.
Band Score Breakdown
{taskAchievement}
7.0
{coherenceCohesion}
7.0
{lexicalResource}
7.0
{grammaticalRange}
7.0
Overall Band
7.0
Examiner Commentary
The essay presents a well-developed discussion of both views with a clear personal position. Ideas are extended and supported with relevant examples. Paragraphing is skillful with clear progression. A range of cohesive devices is used flexibly. Vocabulary shows good range with some less common items ('market-relevant disciplines', 'underpins'). Complex sentences are produced with good accuracy, though occasional errors occur.
Band 7.0Opinion (Agree/Disagree)279 words
Question
Some people say that the best way to improve public health is by increasing the number of sports facilities. Others, however, say that this would have little effect on public health and that other measures are required. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Sample Response
Public health remains a critical concern for governments worldwide, and the role of sports infrastructure in promoting physical well-being is frequently debated. While expanding sports facilities can encourage active lifestyles, I would argue that a multifaceted approach combining infrastructure with education and policy changes is considerably more effective.
Advocates of building more sports facilities contend that accessibility is the primary barrier to exercise. When gyms, swimming pools, and playing fields are readily available within communities, residents are more likely to incorporate physical activity into their routines. Research consistently demonstrates that proximity to exercise facilities correlates positively with activity levels, particularly in lower-income areas where residents cannot afford private gym memberships. The visibility of these facilities also serves as a constant reminder of the importance of physical fitness.
Nevertheless, simply constructing buildings does not guarantee usage. Many existing sports centres operate well below capacity, suggesting that the barriers to exercise are psychological and cultural rather than purely logistical. People who work long hours may lack the energy or motivation to exercise regardless of facility availability. Additionally, public health encompasses far more than physical activity — nutrition, mental health, preventive healthcare, and pollution reduction all play vital roles that sports facilities cannot address.
In conclusion, while improved sports infrastructure forms one component of a public health strategy, governments should simultaneously invest in health education programmes, subsidise nutritious food options, and implement workplace wellness policies. Only through this comprehensive approach can meaningful improvements in population health be achieved.
Band Score Breakdown
{taskAchievement}
7.0
{coherenceCohesion}
7.5
{lexicalResource}
7.0
{grammaticalRange}
7.0
Overall Band
7.0
Examiner Commentary
The response addresses all parts of the task with a clear position throughout. Ideas are well-extended with relevant supporting evidence. Paragraphing is logical with effective use of cohesion within and between paragraphs. Vocabulary is sufficient with some awareness of style and collocation ('multifaceted approach', 'correlates positively'). A variety of complex structures is used with good control, though not risk-free.
Band 7.0Advantages & Disadvantages291 words
Question
Globalisation has led to the spread of multinational companies in all corners of the world. Some people think this is a positive development, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Sample Response
The proliferation of multinational corporations across the globe has generated polarised opinions regarding its impact on local economies and cultures. While these companies bring undeniable economic benefits, I believe their presence requires careful regulation to prevent the erosion of local business ecosystems and cultural identity.
The advantages of multinational expansion are primarily economic. These corporations create employment opportunities in regions where jobs may otherwise be scarce, often paying wages above local averages and providing training that develops the workforce. They introduce efficient business practices, advanced technology, and supply chain infrastructure that can modernise local industries. Consumers benefit from greater product variety, competitive pricing, and consistent quality standards that smaller domestic companies may struggle to match.
Conversely, the dominance of global brands can devastate local commerce. Small businesses frequently cannot compete with the pricing power and marketing budgets of international giants, leading to closures that hollow out traditional high streets and markets. This economic displacement often accompanies cultural homogenisation — identical coffee shops, fashion retailers, and fast-food chains replace distinctive local establishments that reflect community character. Furthermore, profits generated by multinationals are typically repatriated to headquarters abroad rather than being reinvested in the host economy.
My position is that globalisation through multinational presence is neither inherently positive nor negative — its impact depends entirely on governance. Countries that enforce fair competition laws, mandate local hiring quotas, and protect culturally significant businesses can harness economic benefits while preserving what makes their communities distinctive.
Band Score Breakdown
{taskAchievement}
7.0
{coherenceCohesion}
7.0
{lexicalResource}
7.5
{grammaticalRange}
7.0
Overall Band
7.0
Examiner Commentary
Both views are discussed with clear extension and a definitive personal opinion. Organization is logical with each paragraph serving a clear function. Lexical resource is a strength — 'proliferation', 'polarised', 'repatriated', 'homogenisation' show sophistication. Grammar demonstrates variety with generally good control. Minor awkwardness does not impede communication.
Band 7.5 Sample Essays
Band 7.5 essays demonstrate strong writing ability with sophisticated vocabulary, nuanced arguments, and very good grammatical control.
Band 7.5Two-Part Question288 words
Question
More and more people are choosing to work from home rather than in a traditional office. Why is this happening? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
Sample Response
The shift towards remote working has accelerated dramatically in recent years, transforming how millions of professionals approach their careers. This trend is driven by technological advancement and evolving priorities, and while it presents certain challenges, I consider it a predominantly positive development for both individuals and society.
Several interconnected factors explain the migration from office to home. Most fundamentally, digital communication tools have eliminated the technical necessity of physical co-location for many knowledge-based roles. Video conferencing, cloud collaboration platforms, and project management software enable seamless coordination regardless of geography. Simultaneously, workers — particularly younger generations — increasingly prioritise flexibility, autonomy, and work-life integration over traditional markers of career success. The pandemic period demonstrated conclusively that productivity need not suffer outside conventional office environments, dismantling decades of managerial scepticism.
I view this development as largely beneficial for multiple reasons. Eliminating commutes saves workers considerable time and money while significantly reducing transport-related carbon emissions — a meaningful environmental dividend at scale. The geographical liberation of remote work enables skilled professionals to live in affordable regions rather than clustering in expensive urban centres, potentially reducing housing inequality. Companies benefit from access to global talent pools and reduced overhead costs. However, these advantages must be weighed against legitimate concerns: social isolation, difficulty maintaining professional boundaries, and the challenge of mentoring junior staff remotely demand thoughtful solutions.
Ultimately, the remote work revolution represents an evolution rather than a disruption. Organisations that develop hybrid models — combining the flexibility of remote work with purposeful in-person collaboration — will likely achieve optimal outcomes for both productivity and employee wellbeing.
Band Score Breakdown
{taskAchievement}
7.5
{coherenceCohesion}
8.0
{lexicalResource}
7.5
{grammaticalRange}
7.0
Overall Band
7.5
Examiner Commentary
Both questions are fully addressed with well-developed ideas. The response demonstrates sophisticated paragraph management with seamless transitions. Cohesion is a notable strength — ideas flow naturally without mechanical linking. Vocabulary is precise and varied ('geographical liberation', 'managerial scepticism', 'environmental dividend'). Grammar shows good range though some sentences are overly complex.
Band 7.5Discussion (Both Views)295 words
Question
Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences. Others, however, believe there are better alternative ways of reducing crime. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Sample Response
Criminal justice policy represents one of the most contested areas of public debate, with opinions ranging from strictly punitive approaches to rehabilitation-focused alternatives. While longer prison sentences may serve certain limited purposes, I am convinced that evidence-based preventive measures offer far greater potential for sustained crime reduction.
The rationale for extended incarceration rests on two principles: deterrence and incapacitation. Theoretically, the prospect of lengthy imprisonment should discourage potential offenders from committing crimes, while those already convicted are physically prevented from reoffending during their sentence. This approach appeals to public sentiment, particularly following high-profile violent crimes where communities demand visible consequences. For genuinely dangerous individuals who pose ongoing threats to public safety, prolonged removal from society may indeed be the only responsible option.
However, extensive criminological research challenges the assumption that harsher sentences meaningfully deter crime. Recidivism rates in countries with punitive systems often exceed those in nations favouring rehabilitation, suggesting that prison environments may actually reinforce criminal behaviour rather than discourage it. Alternative approaches — community service programmes, restorative justice conferences, addiction treatment, educational opportunities, and early intervention in at-risk communities — address the root causes that drive individuals towards criminal activity. These measures are demonstrably more cost-effective than incarceration while producing lower reoffending rates.
In my assessment, effective crime reduction requires investing in upstream prevention rather than downstream punishment. A society that provides adequate education, mental health support, and economic opportunity will inevitably experience less crime than one which simply builds larger prisons. Incarceration should remain available for the most serious offences, but it cannot constitute a comprehensive crime strategy.
Band Score Breakdown
{taskAchievement}
7.5
{coherenceCohesion}
7.5
{lexicalResource}
8.0
{grammaticalRange}
7.5
Overall Band
7.5
Examiner Commentary
The essay demonstrates sophisticated handling of a complex topic with nuanced argumentation. Both views receive thorough development with appropriate caveats. Lexical resource is the standout criterion — 'recidivism', 'restorative justice', 'upstream prevention' show topic-specific precision. Grammar is varied and largely accurate with ambitious constructions. Organization is excellent with each paragraph building on the previous.
Band 8.0 Sample Essays
Band 8 essays demonstrate expert command of English with sophisticated vocabulary, complex grammar used with precision, and fully developed, nuanced arguments.
Band 8.0Opinion (Agree/Disagree)302 words
Question
Some people feel that the government should be able to monitor all internet and phone communications to prevent crime. Others believe this invades privacy and should never be allowed. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Sample Response
The tension between state security powers and individual privacy rights has intensified as digital communication becomes the primary medium for both legitimate discourse and criminal planning. I firmly believe that unrestricted government surveillance is fundamentally incompatible with democratic principles, though I acknowledge the necessity of targeted, judicially-supervised monitoring in specific circumstances.
Mass surveillance programmes, regardless of their stated justification, pose existential threats to free societies. When citizens know their communications may be monitored, they self-censor — a phenomenon documented extensively in behavioural research — diminishing the open discourse upon which democratic governance depends. History demonstrates that surveillance powers, once granted, invariably expand beyond their original mandate; temporary emergency measures become permanent fixtures. The practical case against blanket monitoring is equally compelling: security services become overwhelmed with data, potentially missing genuine threats amid billions of innocuous communications. The false positive problem alone renders mass surveillance operationally counterproductive.
This does not imply that law enforcement should operate blind in the digital realm. Targeted surveillance, authorised by independent judiciary upon demonstration of probable cause, represents a proportionate mechanism that balances security needs with civil liberties. This framework — essentially the digital equivalent of a physical search warrant — has functioned effectively in democratic legal systems for centuries and requires only updated application rather than fundamental reimagining.
The critical distinction lies between monitoring populations and investigating suspects. The former treats all citizens as potential criminals, corroding social trust; the latter applies established legal principles to new technological contexts. I therefore advocate for robust judicial oversight mechanisms, strict data retention limits, and meaningful penalties for surveillance abuse, while supporting law enforcement's ability to investigate specific threats through proper channels.
Band Score Breakdown
{taskAchievement}
8.0
{coherenceCohesion}
8.0
{lexicalResource}
8.0
{grammaticalRange}
8.0
Overall Band
8.0
Examiner Commentary
The essay presents a sophisticated, nuanced position that avoids binary thinking. Ideas are developed with depth, incorporating evidence and logical reasoning. Paragraphing is skillful with each paragraph serving a distinct rhetorical function. Vocabulary is precise, varied, and used with full awareness of collocation and register ('judicially-supervised', 'existential threats', 'operationally counterproductive'). Grammar shows wide range with rare errors in complex constructions.
Band 8.0Discussion (Both Views)298 words
Question
Some people think that schools should focus more on academic subjects like mathematics and science. Others believe that art and music education are equally important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Sample Response
Educational priorities reflect deeper societal assumptions about what constitutes valuable knowledge and how young people should be prepared for adult life. While academic subjects undeniably equip students with essential analytical capabilities, I contend that art and music education develops distinct cognitive and emotional competencies that are not merely supplementary but foundational to human flourishing.
The case for prioritising academic disciplines rests on pragmatic economic reasoning. Mathematics, science, and technology drive innovation, economic growth, and national competitiveness in an increasingly knowledge-based global economy. Students who excel in these areas typically access more lucrative career paths, and nations with strong STEM performance consistently rank higher in development indices. From a pedagogical standpoint, these subjects develop rigorous logical thinking, evidence evaluation, and quantitative literacy — skills transferable across virtually every professional context.
However, characterising arts education as a luxury misunderstands both its nature and its effects. Neuroscientific research reveals that musical training strengthens working memory, attention control, and mathematical reasoning — the very capacities that STEM subjects require. Visual art develops spatial intelligence, observational precision, and iterative problem-solving through prototyping and revision. Beyond cognitive benefits, arts engagement cultivates emotional intelligence, cultural empathy, and the capacity for original thought that distinguishes human contribution from algorithmic processing. In an era where artificial intelligence increasingly performs routine analytical tasks, creative and interpretive abilities become humanity's comparative advantage.
My position is that the academic-versus-arts framing represents a false dichotomy. Effective education integrates both: mathematics provides the framework for musical composition; scientific inquiry mirrors artistic experimentation; literary analysis sharpens the same critical faculties as hypothesis testing. Schools should resist artificial hierarchies between disciplines and instead recognise that intellectual rigour manifests differently across domains.
Band Score Breakdown
{taskAchievement}
8.0
{coherenceCohesion}
8.5
{lexicalResource}
8.0
{grammaticalRange}
8.0
Overall Band
8.0
Examiner Commentary
Exceptional organisation with each paragraph advancing the argument through distinct rhetorical moves. The conclusion reframes the debate itself — a mark of sophisticated critical thinking. Lexical resource shows precise academic vocabulary ('false dichotomy', 'comparative advantage', 'iterative problem-solving') used naturally. Grammar is varied and virtually error-free across complex constructions. Cohesion is seamless with referencing and substitution rather than mechanical connectors.
Band 8.0Problem & Solution305 words
Question
Many countries are experiencing problems with their environment, particularly regarding pollution and the overuse of natural resources. What are the causes of these problems, and what measures could be taken to address them?
Sample Response
Environmental degradation through pollution and resource depletion represents perhaps the defining challenge of our era, driven by structural economic incentives that prioritise short-term extraction over long-term sustainability. Addressing these interlinked crises requires systemic interventions that realign economic behaviour with ecological limits.
The root causes extend far beyond individual consumption choices. Industrial economies are fundamentally designed to externalise environmental costs — manufacturers bear no financial consequence for atmospheric pollution, agricultural operations are not charged for watershed contamination, and resource extraction companies need not fund ecosystem restoration. This structural misalignment means that environmentally destructive practices remain artificially profitable. Compounding this, rapid urbanisation concentrates pollution impacts while extending supply chains across continents, obscuring the environmental consequences of consumption from consumers. Population growth and rising living standards amplify demand for energy, food, and materials, accelerating depletion of finite resources.
Effective solutions must operate at the systemic level rather than relying on voluntary behavioural change. Carbon pricing mechanisms — whether cap-and-trade systems or direct taxation — internalise environmental costs, making clean alternatives economically competitive rather than aspirationally virtuous. Circular economy legislation requiring manufacturers to design for disassembly and reuse transforms waste from an inevitable byproduct into a design failure. Investment in renewable infrastructure at scale — solar, wind, and storage — addresses the energy system that underlies most pollution categories. Critically, international cooperation frameworks must prevent regulatory arbitrage, where polluting industries simply relocate to jurisdictions with weaker environmental standards.
These measures are not merely desirable but economically rational when accounting for the staggering costs of climate adaptation, healthcare expenditure from pollution-related illness, and resource scarcity. The transition to sustainable economies represents not a sacrifice of prosperity but a redefinition of it — one that future generations will consider not radical but obvious.
Band Score Breakdown
{taskAchievement}
8.0
{coherenceCohesion}
8.0
{lexicalResource}
8.5
{grammaticalRange}
8.0
Overall Band
8.0
Examiner Commentary
The essay demonstrates exceptional depth of analysis, moving beyond surface-level causes to systemic economic mechanisms. Both causes and solutions are thoroughly developed with sophisticated reasoning. Lexical resource is outstanding — 'externalise environmental costs', 'regulatory arbitrage', 'circular economy legislation' show precise command of specialist vocabulary. Grammar shows wide range and flexibility with complex noun phrases and subordination. The conclusion elevates the argument to a philosophical level.
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Score My Essay NowFrequently Asked Questions
How are {ielts} {writingTask2} essays scored?
{ielts} {writingTask2} essays are scored on four criteria: {taskAchievement} (25%), {coherenceCohesion} (25%), {lexicalResource} (25%), and {grammaticalRange} (25%). Each criterion is scored from 0–9 in whole or half bands, and the four scores are averaged for the overall {writingTask2} band.
What is the difference between a Band 6 and Band 7 essay?
A Band 6 essay addresses the task with relevant ideas but may be generic or underdeveloped. A Band 7 essay presents extended ideas with clear progression, uses less common vocabulary items, and produces complex sentences with good accuracy. The key difference is depth of development and precision of language.
How many words should an {ielts} {task2} essay be?
You must write at least 250 words. Most Band 7+ essays are 270–310 words. Writing significantly under 250 results in a penalty. Writing over 300 words is fine but increases the chance of errors — quality matters more than length.
Can I use these sample essays in my {ielts} exam?
No — memorised essays receive a Band 0. Examiners are trained to detect memorised responses. Use these samples to understand what each band level looks like, then practice writing your own responses to different prompts.
What question types appear in {ielts} {writingTask2}?
There are five main question types: Opinion (agree/disagree), Discussion (both views + opinion), Problem & Solution, Advantages & Disadvantages, and Two-Part Questions. Each requires a slightly different structure, but all need a clear position and developed supporting ideas.
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