IELTS Writing Task 2
Model Sample Essays
Discover what an authentic Band 9 essay looks like. Every model follows the standard 4-paragraph structure and fulfills all 4 official grading criteria.
Browse by Question Type
Select an essay type to see specific structural formulas and modelsOpinion Essays
Agree or disagree prompts. Learn how to maintain a clear, unwavering stance across two body paragraphs.
Discussion Essays
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Explore both perspectives fairly before giving your conclusion.
Problem & Solution
Analyze core causes and present logical, interconnected solutions to global and societal issues.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Weigh pros and cons, or determine whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
Two-Part Question
Provide equal depth and balanced analysis to two distinct questions asked in the prompt.
Direct Question
Directly address specific topic questions and develop each response with relevant real-world support.
Complete Band 9 Essay Directory (22)
Filtered for verified Band 9 score criteriaLife was better when technology was simpler. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Climate change is the biggest threat to life on our planet. How accurate is this statement? Are there any other big threats to mankind?
In many countries, smoking is now illegal in public places. Many people believe that such a ban is justified. Do you agree or disagree?
Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others believe that children who are taught to cooperate rather than compete become more useful adults. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Some parents think that childcare centres provide the best services for children of preschool age. Other working parents think that family members such as grandparents are better caregivers for their young children. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
At present, the media affects people’s lives significantly. What impact does this have on society? Is it a negative or positive development?
There are many reasons that can motivate a person to stay working for the same company. Some believe that money is the main reason. Do you agree or disagree?
In Britain, when someone gets old, they often go to live in a home with other old people where there are nurses to look after them. Sometimes the government has to pay for this care. Who do you think should pay for this care, the government or the family?
Modern children are suffering from the diseases that were once considered to only be meant for adults. Obesity is a major disease prevalent among children. What are its causes, and what solutions can be offered?
In many countries, children are engaged in some kind of paid work. Some people regard this as completely wrong, while others consider it as valuable work experience. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Air transport is increasingly used to export fruit and vegetables to countries where they cannot be grown or are out of season. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?
Some people get into debt by buying things they do not need and are unable to afford. What are the reasons for this behaviour? What action can be taken to prevent people from having this problem?
People naturally resist making changes in their lives. What kinds of problems can this cause? What solutions can you suggest?
Many museums charge for admission, while others are free. Do you think the advantages of charging people for admission to museums outweigh the disadvantages?
As most people spend a major part of their adult life at work, job satisfaction is an important element of individual wellbeing. What are the factors that contribute to job satisfaction? How realistic is the expectation of job satisfaction for all workers?
A person’s worth nowadays seems to be judged according to social status and material possessions. Old fashioned values such as honour, kindness, and trust no longer seem important. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
The internet has transformed the way information is shared and consumed, but it has also created problems that did not exist before. What are the most serious problems associated with the internet and what are the possible solutions?
In some countries, many more people are choosing to live alone nowadays than in the past. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
Wealthy countries should accept more refugees and provide them with basic assistance such as food and housing. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Governments give lots of support to artists, even though some people think it is a waste of money that could have been spent better elsewhere. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
More and more people in developing countries are purchasing cars for the first time. What problems does this cause? What do you think are some possible solutions?
Many teenagers have their own smartphones. Does this situation have more advantages or more disadvantages?
Why 4 Paragraphs Produce Band 9 Scores
Examiners score IELTS Writing Task 2 responses based on depth of idea development, not sheer paragraph count. The standard 4-paragraph framework provides the optimal balance:
2 sentences: Paraphrase the prompt and state your explicit thesis statement immediately.
4–5 sentences: Topic sentence, logical explanation, concrete real-world example, and summary link.
4–5 sentences: Second topic sentence, elaboration, specific supporting evidence, and synthesis.
1–2 sentences: Restate the thesis in fresh vocabulary and summarize your central arguments.