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Cambridge IELTS 9 · Test 2 · Band 6

Cambridge IELTS 9 Test 2 — Band 6 model essay

263 words · 15 sentences · IELTS Writing Task 2

Writing Task 2 prompt

Some experts believe it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

一些专家认为,孩子在小学而不是中学开始学习外语更好。这种做法的优点是否大于缺点?

Band 6 model answer

In many countries, there is a discussion about the best age to start learning a foreign language. Some experts believe it is better to begin at primary school instead of waiting until secondary school. In my opinion, the advantages of starting early are bigger than the disadvantages.

There are several benefits when children learn a language at a young age. Firstly, young children can learn new sounds more easily, so they often get a better pronunciation than older students. Their brain is very flexible, and they absorb the language in a natural way, almost like they learn their mother tongue. Secondly, starting early gives them more years to practise, so by the time they finish school, they can reach a high level. Also, learning a language can help children to understand other cultures and become more open-minded.

Of course, there are some disadvantages too. Small children are still learning their own language, so a second language might confuse them a little at the beginning. In addition, if there are not enough good teachers in primary school, the lessons may be low quality. Some children also have a lot of subjects already, so an extra language can make them tired. Because of this, a few children may start to dislike the language instead of enjoying it.

However, I think these problems are not very serious and can be solved with good teachers and fun lessons. In conclusion, although starting a foreign language at primary school has a few disadvantages, the advantages such as better pronunciation and more time to practise are much more important.

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Frequently asked questions

How many words should an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay be?

IELTS Writing Task 2 requires a minimum of 250 words. This Cambridge IELTS 9 Test 2 model answer is 263 words, comfortably above the minimum without padding.

What makes this a Band 6 IELTS essay?

A Band 6 answer addresses the task with a clear position and adequate vocabulary, but development is uneven and it contains noticeable grammar errors that do not prevent understanding.

How do I use this model essay to improve my IELTS writing?

Read the model to see how a high-band answer is structured and argued, then practise typing it on Typehush to build the speed and accuracy the computer-based IELTS Writing test demands.