Cambridge IELTS 20 | Writing Task Sample Answers & Explanations

IELTS 19 Writing Free Sample Answers

Table of Contents

Overview of the IELTS Writing Test

The IELTS Writing test consists of two tasks designed to assess your ability to write clearly and effectively in English. You have 60 minutes to complete both tasks, with Task 2 carrying more weight in your overall writing score.

Academic IELTS: In Task 1, you are required to interpret and describe information presented in a visual format, such as graphs, charts, tables, maps, or diagrams. Your response should summarize the key features, highlight trends, and make comparisons where relevant. This task must be at least 150 words. Task 2 is an essay in which you respond to a question or argument. You are expected to present a clear position, support it with relevant ideas and examples, and write a minimum of 250 words using appropriate academic language and structure.

General Training IELTS: Task 1 asks you to write a letter in response to a given situation. This may be formal, semi-formal, or informal, depending on the context. You might be asked to make a request, offer an explanation, or give advice. Task 2 is the same as in the Academic module: a discursive essay on a general topic. You will need to present your opinion, justify your views, and provide examples in a well-organized format of at least 250 words.

Cambridge IELTS 19 Writing Scoring Rubric

Scoring Details for IELTS Writing Task 1

Task Achievement

This is one of the most important criteria in Task 1. You must accurately describe and summarize the key features of the visual data (charts, graphs, or diagrams). To score well, make sure you focus on major trends and significant data points, rather than describing every small detail. Always answer the question fully, and avoid misinterpreting the data. Hitting the 150-word minimum is essential, but what’s more important is that your description is relevant and clear. Do not go off-topic or miss key features, as this will lower your score.

Coherence and Cohesion

Along with Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion are critical to a high score. Your writing should be logically organized and easy to follow. Each paragraph should have a clear purpose, and there should be smooth transitions between ideas using appropriate linking words (e.g., “in contrast,” “similarly,” “overall”). However, don’t overuse these connectorsβ€”balance is key. One important tip is to have a plan before you start writing. Spend a few minutes organizing your response in your head or on paper, so you can stay focused and maintain a clear structure.

Lexical Resource (Vocabulary)

For Task 1, it’s important to use a range of vocabulary to describe the data accurately. However, don’t try to use complex or unfamiliar words just to sound impressive. Many test-takers make the mistake of using overly complicated words that are either incorrect or sound unnatural. Instead, use words you know well and confidently. Stick to accurate, precise vocabulary like “increase,” “decline,” or “steady.” You’ll score higher if you’re consistent with simple, correct vocabulary than if you force in advanced words that don’t make sense.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

To achieve a good score, use a variety of sentence structuresβ€”simple, compound, and complex. Accuracy is more important than complexity, so make sure your grammar is correct. If you try to use overly complex sentences without a complete understanding of them, you risk making more errors, which can bring your score down. Focus on maintaining grammatical accuracy, especially in subject-verb agreement, tense usage, and punctuation. Simple but error-free grammar is always better than overly complex sentences filled with mistakes.

Scoring Details for IELTS Writing Task 2

Task Response

This is crucial in Task 2. You must clearly address the essay question and fully develop your argument or position. Your ideas need to be specific, not vague or generalized, and supported with relevant examples. The essay must meet the 250-word minimum, but more importantly, it needs to be complete and well-developed. Don’t rush into writing without understanding the question or fail to answer all parts of itβ€”this is the most critical area for scoring well in Task 2. Fully develop your points with clear explanations and avoid leaving your ideas half-baked.

Coherence and Cohesion

As in Task 1, Coherence and Cohesion play a significant role in your score. Your essay should have a logical structure, with clear paragraphs and smooth transitions between ideas. Linking words (e.g., “furthermore,” “on the other hand”) should help your argument flow naturally. However, excessive use of these connectors can make your writing sound mechanical. The best way to ensure clear coherence is to plan before you start writing. Spend 5-10 minutes outlining your main points and how you’ll organize them. A well-planned essay is always easier to follow and helps prevent your ideas from becoming disjointed.

Lexical Resource (Vocabulary)

It’s important to use a variety of words to express your ideas, but don’t force complicated words into your essay just for the sake of it. Many candidates use advanced vocabulary incorrectly, which hurts their score more than helps. Use words that feel natural and that you are confident with. It’s better to write with simple, accurate vocabulary than to overcomplicate things with unnatural or incorrect usage. Focus on precision and variety, but keep it simple if needed. Aim to avoid repetitive language, and try to use synonyms where appropriate, but always prioritize clarity.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

You need to demonstrate a range of sentence structures, from simple to complex, to score well in this area. However, accuracy is far more important than complexity. Don’t feel pressured to use advanced grammar unless you’re confident you can do so correctly. If you use a mix of sentence types but make frequent errors, your score will drop. It’s better to use simpler sentences with correct grammar than to write overly complex ones filled with mistakes. Pay close attention to subject-verb agreement, tense consistency, and punctuation, as these areas are often where mistakes happen.

IELTS 19 Writing Free Sample Answers

Cambridge IELTS 20 Academic Writing Questions

In order to respect the copyright of Cambridge University Press, the publisher of Cambridge IELTS 20, the sample answers provided here are not directly copied from the book. However, they are designed to follow the same structure, logic, and skills required to approach similar writing tasks.Β For instance, if the book presents a Task 2 topic like “Some people think that public transportation should be free for everyone. To what extent do you agree or disagree?” you might find a topic here such as “Some believe that all museums should be free to the public. Do you agree or disagree?” While the topics differ, the approachβ€”structuring your opinion, developing arguments, and supporting them with examplesβ€”remains exactly the same. These responses are written to help you practice the same writing strategies tested in the official materials.

IELTS 20: Test 1

English Quizzes (Coming Soon)

Test 1, Task 1: Integrated Writing

Instructions: You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

coming soon

IELTS 20 Writing Module Free Sample Question Test 1 Writing Task 2 (Independent Task)

Test 1, Task 2: Independent Writing

Instructions: You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Internet access is now considered a basic necessity, so it should be provided free of charge by the government to every household. Do you agree or disagree?

You should present a clear argument and support it with relevant examples.

Test 1, Task 2: Sample Writing 1

Mid-scoring Task 2 Response (Band 6)

In today’s world, the internet is important for education, jobs, and even health services. Because of this, some people believe it should be free for everyone. I mostly agree with this idea, but it may not be possible in every country.

First of all, internet is needed by students to do homework and research. If families cannot pay for it, children will be behind in school. Also, many jobs now require the internet to apply or to work from home. If the government gives free internet, more people will have chances in life.

However, making internet free for all homes might cost too much money. Poorer countries have other problems like hospitals and food. So they may not afford to pay for internet for everyone. Also, some people may waste the internet on games and videos if it is free.

To sum up, I agree that the internet is a basic need and governments should help people who cannot afford it. But giving it to everyone for free may not always be realistic.

(Word count: 173)

Test 1, Task 2: Sample Writing 1 [Examiner Notes]

This is a clear and mostly relevant response to the task prompt. The candidate shows a basic understanding of the topic and presents a position (partial agreement) that is maintained throughout. However, the argument remains underdeveloped. While examples are given, such as students needing the internet for school or the cost challenges for poorer countries, these ideas are briefly mentioned without deeper explanation or analysis. There is also some imprecision in how the writer interprets the idea of “every household” β€” the response shifts toward helping “people who cannot afford it,” which is a narrower interpretation than the universal access implied in the question.

The organisation of ideas is logical, with a basic structure that includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The writer attempts to present contrasting views, which shows some cohesion of thought. However, transitions such as β€œfirst of all” and β€œalso” are quite mechanical, and connections between ideas are occasionally weak. For example, the sentence β€œAlso, some people may waste the internet on games…” is an interesting point but feels underexplored and abruptly inserted.

In terms of vocabulary, the writer relies on safe, familiar language (e.g. β€œimportant,” β€œafford,” β€œproblems,” β€œchances in life”). While this is mostly appropriate and clear, the word choices are simple and occasionally repetitive. There is a missed opportunity to demonstrate more precise or varied lexical resource, especially when discussing issues like social equity, public funding, or digital access.

The grammar is generally accurate, with mostly correct sentence structures, but the variety is limited. Simple sentences dominate, and while a few compound or complex structures appear, they are often short and undeveloped. Errors like β€œinternet is needed” (missing article: the internet) appear, which affect accuracy but not overall comprehension.

To improve, the candidate should develop ideas more fully, avoid generalisations, and strive for greater depth in argumentation. A wider range of cohesive devices and more flexible vocabulary would also help raise the score.

Overall Band: 6.0

Test 1, Task 2: Sample Writing 2

High-scoring Task 2 Response (Band 8+)

In the digital age, internet access plays a crucial role in education, employment, and communication. For this reason, some people argue that it should be offered free of charge by the government to every household. While I agree that internet access is essential, I do not believe it should be entirely free for all.

There is no doubt that reliable internet is vital for participating in modern society. Students need it to access learning materials and attend online classes, and many adults rely on it to search for jobs or work remotely. Without internet access, people can quickly become isolated and disadvantaged, especially in rural or low-income areas. In this sense, governments have a responsibility to ensure that no one is excluded from digital opportunities.

However, providing free internet to every home would place a heavy financial burden on governments, particularly in developing countries where other urgent needs such as healthcare or infrastructure may take priority. A more practical approach would be to subsidize internet costs for low-income families or invest in public Wi-Fi zones in community centers and libraries. This way, access is guaranteed for those who need it most, without making the service entirely free for everyone.

In conclusion, while internet access is clearly a basic necessity, making it free for all households is neither financially sustainable nor necessary. Governments should focus on supporting those who cannot afford it, rather than removing the cost for everyone.

(Word count: 238)

Test 1, Task 2: Sample Writing 2 [Examiner Notes]

This is an excellent response that clearly addresses all aspects of the task. The writer presents a well-balanced argument, agreeing that internet access is essential but challenging the idea that it should be completely free for every household. This demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the question and avoids the simplistic β€œagree or disagree” trap that many candidates fall into. The writer stays fully on topic and supports their position with logical reasoning and realistic examples, particularly the idea of subsidizing access for those in need rather than removing the cost entirely.

Ideas are well-developed and clearly organized. Each paragraph builds logically on the last, and the progression from introduction to conclusion is smooth and natural. The candidate presents both sides of the argument while maintaining a consistent position. There is a clear sense of purpose in every paragraph, and the conclusion directly answers the question without merely repeating earlier points.

The use of cohesive devices is subtle and effective. Phrases such as β€œthere is no doubt,” β€œin this sense,” and β€œa more practical approach” help guide the reader without sounding mechanical. Reference and substitution (e.g. β€œthis way,” β€œthose who need it most”) are handled well, contributing to the cohesion of the text without repetition.

The vocabulary is appropriate and precise. The writer avoids unnecessary complexity while using natural, topic-specific terms such as β€œdigital opportunities,” β€œsubsidize,” and β€œfinancial burden.” Collocations like β€œreliable internet,” β€œlow-income families,” and β€œpublic Wi-Fi zones” show a strong command of language relevant to the topic. Word choice is varied without becoming forced or obscure.

Grammatical control is strong. The candidate demonstrates a range of sentence structures, including conditionals, passives, and complex sentences with dependent clauses. There are no noticeable grammar or punctuation errors, and the writing is consistently clear and fluent.

To reach a Band 9, the writer could make the tone slightly more academic by avoiding phrases like β€œthere is no doubt,” which can feel conversational. However, this is a minor stylistic point and does not detract from the quality of the response.

Overall Band: 8.5

IELTS 20: Test 2

English Quizzes (Coming Soon)

Test 1, Task 1: Integrated Writing

Instructions: You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

coming soon

IELTS 20 Writing Free Sample Question Official Test 2 Writing Task 2

Test 2, Task 2: Independent Writing

Instructions: You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:
In many countries, students are required to wear school uniforms throughout their education. What are the benefits of school uniforms? What are the arguments in favor of allowing students to wear their own clothes?
You should present a clear argument and support it with relevant examples.
Test 2, Task 2: Sample Writing 1

Mid-scoring Task 2 Response (Band 6)

Wearing school uniforms is common in many schools around the world. Some people think this is a good thing, while others prefer students to dress how they want. There are reasons for both sides.

One benefit of school uniforms is that it makes everyone look the same. This means students don’t feel bad if they can’t buy expensive clothes. It can also help avoid bullying. Another reason is that uniforms make it easy to know who belongs to the school, so it can help with security.

On the other hand, students might feel like they don’t have any freedom. Teenagers want to express themselves, and clothes are one way to do that. If they have to wear the same thing every day, they might not enjoy going to school. Also, some uniforms are not comfortable or good for the weather.

In conclusion, uniforms can help with discipline and equality, but wearing your own clothes gives students more freedom and comfort. Every school should decide based on what works best for their students.

(Word count: 172)

Test 2, Task 2: Sample Writing 1 [Examiner Notes]

This is a clear and relevant response that addresses both parts of the question. The candidate outlines the benefits of school uniforms and provides reasons why some people prefer students to wear their own clothes. While the ideas are appropriate, they are presented in a fairly basic way and are not explored in much depth. For example, the point about uniforms preventing bullying is a good one, but it is not developed with a specific example or explanation of how this might happen in practice.

The structure of the essay is straightforward and easy to follow, with an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. However, the ideas in each paragraph are quite general, and transitions between sentences are minimal. The paragraph about the drawbacks of uniforms is more cohesive, but the arguments still feel somewhat underdeveloped. For instance, the point about weather-appropriate clothing could have been expanded to show a deeper understanding of real-life student experiences.

Vocabulary is functional and mostly accurate, but limited in range. Words like β€œfreedom,” β€œbullying,” and β€œcomfortable” are suitable for the topic, yet many terms are repeated, and there is little use of more precise or nuanced expressions. Additionally, there’s an over-reliance on simple structures such as β€œX is good because…” which affects the overall sophistication of the writing.

Grammatical control is generally good, with few errors that interfere with meaning. Most sentences are grammatically correct, but sentence structures are basic, and the writer does not demonstrate much variety. There is little evidence of complex constructions or flexible grammar use, which limits the ability to show a wider language range.

To improve, the candidate should aim to develop ideas in more detail, use a broader range of vocabulary, and experiment with more complex sentence forms. As it stands, this is a solid mid-band performance with clear communication but limited depth and precision.

Overall Band: 6.0

Test 2, Task 2: Sample Writing 2

High-scoring Task 2 Response (Band 9)

School uniforms are a standard feature in many educational systems, and their use continues to spark debate. While some see uniforms as a practical solution for school discipline and equality, others argue that students should have the right to express themselves through their clothing. Both perspectives raise valid points.

One of the main advantages of school uniforms is that they promote a sense of equality among students. When everyone wears the same outfit, social divisions based on fashion or economic status are less visible. This can help reduce peer pressure and bullying, particularly in schools where there is a wide income gap. Additionally, uniforms can reinforce a sense of discipline and collective identity. Students may be more likely to take their education seriously when dressed in clothing associated with academic purpose. Uniforms also simplify daily routines for both students and parents, as there is no need to decide what to wear each morning.

However, there are also strong arguments for allowing students to wear their own clothes. Personal appearance is a key part of identity, especially during adolescence. Restricting this form of self-expression can feel oppressive and may even lead to resentment toward school authorities. Furthermore, uniforms do not necessarily eliminate bullying, as students may still find other ways to judge or exclude peers. Some also argue that the cost of uniforms can be a burden for low-income families, especially if specific brands or styles are required.

In conclusion, school uniforms can foster a more focused and egalitarian school environment, but allowing students to choose their clothing supports individuality and autonomy. Rather than enforcing one system universally, schools might benefit from flexible policies that consider the needs and values of their specific communities.

(Word count: 283)

Test 2, Task 2: Sample Writing 2 [Examiner Notes]

This is an outstanding response that fully addresses both parts of the task with clarity, precision, and depth. The writer presents a well-balanced discussion, exploring both the benefits of school uniforms and the rationale behind allowing students to dress freely. The response stays tightly focused on the question throughout, with no digressions or repetition.

Ideas are highly developed and well-supported. The candidate offers concrete explanations for each point, such as how uniforms reduce visible income differences and how self-expression through clothing is important during adolescence. These points are explained with clear logic, and the comparisons between opposing views are handled thoughtfully. The conclusion ties the essay together effectively, offering a realistic and nuanced solution rather than a simplistic opinion.

Coherence and cohesion are excellent. The essay flows smoothly, with each paragraph serving a clear function in the overall argument. Transitions such as β€œone of the main advantages,” β€œhowever,” and β€œin conclusion” are used naturally, without sounding mechanical or overused. Within paragraphs, ideas are connected seamlessly, and the progression of thought is easy to follow.

Lexical resource is wide-ranging and precise, with strong collocations and topic-appropriate vocabulary such as β€œpeer pressure,” β€œcollective identity,” β€œself-expression,” and β€œegalitarian environment.” The language is varied without being forced or overly academic, demonstrating both control and flexibility.

Grammatical range and accuracy are consistently strong. The candidate uses complex structures naturally, including conditional clauses, passive voice, and relative clauses. There are no noticeable grammatical errors, and punctuation is used effectively to support clarity and rhythm.

Overall, this is a well-structured, articulate, and sophisticated essay that meets all the criteria for a Band 9 score.

Overall Band: 9.0

IELTS 20: Test 3

English Quizzes (Coming Soon)

Test 3, Task 1: Integrated Writing

Instructions: You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

coming soon

IELTS 20 Writing Module Free Sample Question Test 3 Writing Task 2 (Independent Task)

Test 3, Task 2: Independent Writing

Instructions: You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:
Many governments are introducing policies to discourage private car ownership and promote public transport or cycling instead. Do you think the environmental advantages of these policies outweigh the drawbacks for individuals and families?
You should present a clear argument and support it with relevant examples.
Test 3, Task 2: Sample Writing 1

Mid-scoring Task 2 Response (Band 6)

Many governments have introduced policies to reduce private car ownership and encourage people to use public transport or bicycles more often. These policies have some benefits for the environment because fewer cars means less air pollution, which can make cities cleaner and healthier. Also, riding a bike can be good exercise and help people save money on fuel. However, these policies create problems for individuals and families because not everyone can easily use public transport or ride a bike. For example, some people live far from work or school, so public transport is not always convenient or safe, and it can take a lot of time. Moreover, many people, especially older adults or those with health issues, cannot ride bikes or may find it uncomfortable. These restrictions can limit their freedom and make their daily life difficult. Therefore, although these government policies help the environment, they also bring challenges for many people, and governments should find ways to support those who have no other options.

(Word count: 165)

Test 3, Task 2: Sample Writing 1 [Examiner Notes]

This response addresses the task with relevant ideas about both the environmental benefits and the drawbacks of government policies discouraging car ownership. The candidate shows an understanding of the question but the arguments are basic and lack depth or strong examples. The points about pollution reduction and exercise benefits are appropriate but not fully developed, while the challenges for certain groups are mentioned without much explanation or detail.

The essay is written as a single long paragraph, which negatively affects the coherence and cohesion. The absence of clear paragraph breaks makes it harder to follow the organisation of ideas, and the writing would benefit from separating the benefits and drawbacks into distinct paragraphs. Transitions between sentences are minimal, and some ideas feel rushed or underexplored.

Vocabulary is adequate but limited, with repetition of simple words such as β€œpeople,” β€œproblems,” and β€œpolicies.” The language is mostly clear but does not demonstrate a wide range of lexical resources. There is also an overuse of simple sentence structures, and the writing would be improved by more varied expressions and sentence types.

Grammar shows some weaknesses, especially with subject-verb agreement and tense consistency. Errors like β€œit have some problems” and β€œpeople use more public transport” occur and occasionally interfere with clarity. While the meaning remains understandable, these mistakes reduce the overall accuracy of the writing.

To improve, the candidate should work on paragraphing and organisation, develop ideas with more supporting details, and focus on improving grammatical accuracy and variety of vocabulary.

Overall Band: 6.0

Test 3, Task 2: Sample Writing 2

High-scoring Task 2 Response (Band 8+)

In recent years, many governments have introduced policies aimed at reducing private car ownership by promoting public transportation and cycling. These measures offer significant environmental advantages, particularly in terms of reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. Encouraging people to use more sustainable modes of transport can lead to cleaner cities, improved public health, and decreased reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, promoting cycling and public transport can ease traffic congestion and reduce noise pollution, enhancing the quality of urban life.

However, these policies also present challenges for individuals and families. In many suburban and rural areas, public transport options are limited or inconvenient, making car ownership almost essential for daily commuting, grocery shopping, and other activities. Additionally, not everyone is physically able or willing to cycle, particularly the elderly or those with disabilities. The transition to reduced car dependency may also have economic implications for car manufacturers, fuel industries, and related businesses, potentially leading to job losses.

Despite these drawbacks, I believe the environmental benefits outweigh the disadvantages. Governments should, however, implement supportive measures such as improving public transport infrastructure, offering subsidies for low-income families, and creating safer cycling environments. This balanced approach can help mitigate the negative effects on individuals while achieving long-term sustainability goals. In conclusion, while reducing private car ownership poses challenges, the positive environmental impact and potential social benefits make these policies worthwhile and necessary for the future.

(Word count: 237)

Test 3, Task 2: Sample Writing 2 [Examiner Notes]

This is a very strong and well-structured response that thoroughly addresses both parts of the question. The writer clearly presents the environmental benefits of policies discouraging private car ownership while acknowledging the challenges faced by individuals and families. The discussion is balanced and nuanced, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the topic.

The essay is logically organised into clear paragraphs, each with a distinct focus, which greatly aids readability and coherence. The progression of ideas is smooth, with effective use of cohesive devices such as β€œhowever,” β€œfurthermore,” and β€œdespite these drawbacks” to connect points naturally. This careful organisation ensures the response is easy to follow.

Vocabulary is precise and appropriate to the topic, with phrases like β€œgreenhouse gas emissions,” β€œsustainable modes of transport,” and β€œpublic transport infrastructure” demonstrating a strong lexical resource. The language is formal and academic without being overly complex, striking a good balance for clarity and sophistication.

Grammatical control is excellent. The candidate employs a wide range of sentence structures, including complex and compound sentences, with no noticeable errors. Punctuation is used effectively to enhance clarity and flow.

To further improve, the candidate might consider including more specific examples or statistics to strengthen arguments, but this is a minor point in an otherwise impressive essay.

Overall Band: 8.5

IELTS 19: Test 4

English Quizzes (Coming Soon)

Test 4, Task 1: Integrated Writing

Instructions: You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

coming soon

IELTS 20 Writing Free Sample Question Official Test 4 Writing Task 2

Test 4, Task 2: Independent Writing

Instructions: You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:
Many people today rely heavily on social media to get their news and information. Why has social media become such a popular source of news? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
You should present a clear argument and support it with relevant examples.
Test 4, Task 2: Sample Writing 1

Low-scoring Task 2 Response (Band 4.5)

Today many people use social media for know news and information. Social media is very fast and easy to use. Because of this, many peoples like get news from Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Also, many news come from social media before TV or newspaper. This make social media popular. People can share news fast with friends and family.

But this have some problems. Sometimes news on social media is not true or fake. People believe wrong things and this make confusion. Also, many peoples only see news what they like and not other side. This can make people have wrong idea about things. Social media make people lazy to read long news or think deep. Some peoples spend too much time on social media and forget real life.

In my opinion, social media have good and bad things. It help people know news fast but also can cause problem if people not careful. So, we need to use social media smart and check news before believe.

(Word count: 167)

Test 4, Task 2: Sample Writing 1 [Examiner Notes]

This response attempts to address both parts of the task by explaining why social media has become a popular source of news and by offering an opinion on whether this development is positive or negative. However, the ideas are very basic and only loosely connected to the question.

The explanation of why social media is popular is limited to mentioning speed and ease of use, without elaborating or giving specific examples. The discussion of advantages and disadvantages lacks depth and development. For example, the point about fake news is introduced but not fully explained or supported.

The essay suffers from weak coherence and cohesion. The ideas are presented in short, simple sentences without clear progression or logical linking between points. The response lacks paragraphing, which further reduces clarity and organization.

Vocabulary is limited and repetitive. Common words and phrases like β€œpeople,” β€œnews,” and β€œsocial media” are overused, and there is little variation or precision. Some word choices are incorrect or awkward (β€œknow news,” β€œpeople lazy to read long news”).

Grammatical errors are frequent and affect readability. Problems include incorrect verb forms (β€œhave some problems”), subject-verb agreement (β€œmany peoples like”), and missing articles. Sentence structures are mostly simple and occasionally fragmented.

To improve, the candidate should focus on expanding and developing ideas more fully, improving sentence structure, and increasing vocabulary range and accuracy. Organizing the response into clear paragraphs would also help improve coherence.

Overall Band: 4.5

Test 4, Task 2: Sample Writing 2

High-scoring Task 2 Response (Band 8+)

In recent years, social media has become a major source of news for many people worldwide. One of the main reasons for this shift is the rapid speed at which information spreads on platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Unlike traditional news outlets, which may take hours or even days to report on events, social media allows users to receive updates in real time. This immediacy appeals especially to younger generations who prefer quick and easy access to news through their smartphones. Additionally, social media offers an interactive experience where users can comment on, share, and discuss news stories, making it more engaging than simply watching or reading traditional news.

However, while social media has clear advantages, it also brings significant challenges. A major concern is the widespread circulation of misinformation and fake news. Because anyone can post content, false stories often spread before they are checked for accuracy, causing confusion and even panic. This problem is exacerbated by algorithms that prioritize sensational or emotionally charged content to maximize user engagement. Furthermore, social media can create echo chambers where users are exposed only to information that aligns with their existing beliefs. This lack of exposure to diverse perspectives can deepen societal divisions and hinder meaningful conversations about important issues.

Despite these drawbacks, social media’s role in news dissemination cannot be overlooked. It democratizes information access, allowing voices that are often ignored by mainstream media to be heard. It also facilitates faster responses to emergencies and social movements by quickly spreading awareness. In my opinion, social media is a powerful tool that can have both positive and negative impacts on society. The key is for users to develop critical thinking skills, verify information through reliable sources, and seek a balanced understanding of the news.

In conclusion, social media has transformed how people access and engage with news. While it offers speed, accessibility, and interactivity, it also poses risks related to misinformation and polarization. To ensure these platforms contribute positively to society, both users and platform providers must take responsibility in promoting accurate information and encouraging open dialogue.

(Word count: 347)

Test 4, Task 2: Sample Writing 2 [Examiner Notes]

This is a well-developed and coherent response that thoroughly addresses both parts of the question. The candidate clearly explains why social media has become a popular source of news, citing factors such as immediacy, interactivity, and accessibility. The explanation is detailed and supported with relevant examples, such as the role of smartphones and user engagement.

The essay also presents a balanced discussion of the positive and negative effects of social media on news consumption. The candidate effectively highlights key issues, including the spread of misinformation, the influence of algorithms, and the creation of echo chambers, showing a sophisticated understanding of the topic.

The organisation is logical and clear, with well-structured paragraphs that separate different ideas effectively. Cohesive devices such as β€œhowever,” β€œdespite,” and β€œin conclusion” are used appropriately to link ideas smoothly. The progression of ideas is natural, making the essay easy to follow.

The vocabulary is varied and precise, including phrases like β€œwidespread circulation of misinformation,” β€œecho chambers,” β€œdemocratizes information access,” and β€œcritical thinking skills.” The tone is formal and academic, fitting for the task.

Grammatical structures are accurate and varied, with complex sentences and correct punctuation throughout. There are no noticeable errors, and sentence variety enhances readability.

Overall, this response demonstrates a strong command of language and task management, making it deserving of a Band 8 or higher.

Overall Band: 8.5

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