“Some argue history should be compulsory in school, while others say students should focus on practical subjects like science. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
Avoid the false binary — name what each subject teaches that the other doesn't.
Task 2·40 min·≥ 250 words
Ready to write?
Attempt this question
Built-in timer, word counter, auto-save. We grade the moment you submit.
Start or read a Band 8 model →🧠 5-step planHow to crack it
Open if you want a structure to follow
How to crack it
Open if you want a structure to follow
- 1
Read the question twice.
Underline every keyword. The instruction word ("agree", "discuss") decides your structure. Get this wrong and you cap at 5.
- 2
Plan for 5 minutes.
Two body paragraphs. One main idea each. Pick examples BEFORE you write the intro.
- 3
Write your intro last in your head.
Once you know the conclusion, the intro writes itself. Paraphrase the question, don’t copy it.
- 4
Aim for 270–290 words.
Less = task incomplete. More = grammar errors. Stay in the pocket.
- 5
Leave 3 minutes to proofread.
Hunt articles ("a/an/the"), subject-verb agreement, and "make/do" mix-ups. They’re your usual suspects.
⚠️ Examiner watch-outsWhat loses you the band
The four traps this question sets
What loses you the band
The four traps this question sets
- ⚠️
Off-topic intro
Paraphrase the question. Don’t broaden it.
- ⚠️
Conclusion that just repeats
Add one new reason. Or a recommendation.
- ⚠️
"Make a damage"
Collocation slip. Use "cause damage".
- ⚠️
"Furthermore. Moreover."
Pick one. Both = robotic.
Model answer
Try these next
All education questions“Some say university should be free for all. Others say students should pay tuition. Discus…”
Discuss both views · Band 6.5+
“Some experts believe children should start learning a foreign language at primary school. …”
Opinion (Agree / Disagree) · Band 6.5+
“Some university students want to learn about other subjects in addition to their main subj…”
Discuss both views · Band 7+