IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors with Assessment Criteria

IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors: IELTS Writing Task 2 is the second section of the Writing test, where you are required to respond to a point of view, argument, or issue by writing an essay. The essay must be written in a formal style, be at least 250 words in length, and should be completed in approximately 40 minutes. This task assesses your ability to express ideas clearly and accurately in English. While many candidates may have only a basic understanding of various topics, strong language skills remain essential. The IELTS writing exam is evaluated using four key criteria, with each contributing 25% to your final score for both Task 1 and Task 2.

IELTS Online Coaching

What Are IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors?

The IELTS Writing Task 2 band descriptors are the official scoring criteria used by examiners to assess your writing performance. They are divided into four equally weighted categories:

• Task Response

• Coherence and Cohesion

• Lexical Resource

• Grammatical Range and Accuracy

Each criterion is scored from Band 0 to Band 9, and your overall score is the average of these four. Let’s examine each one in detail.

IELTS Writing Tips, Strategy, and Practice

Task Response

Key Features:

• Fully addresses all parts of the task

• Presents a clear and well-developed position

• Supports main ideas with relevant examples or evidence

• Responds appropriately to the type of question (opinion, discussion, solution, etc.)

Example:

• High Band (8-9): The essay presents a well-developed argument with clear reasoning and detailed support.

• Low Band (5-6): The response may be underdeveloped or only partially address the question.

Coherence and Cohesion

Key Features:

• Clear progression of ideas

• Logical paragraphing

• Appropriate use of cohesive devices (such as connectors, linking words)

• Consistency in referencing and paragraph structure

Example:

• High Band (8-9): Paragraphs flow smoothly with effective use of transitions and referencing.

• Low Band (5-6): Ideas may be repeated, poorly connected, or difficult to follow.

Also Read:

• IELTS Writing Task 1 
• IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer, Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Lexical Resource

Key Features:

• Use of a wide range of vocabulary

• Appropriate word choice for the topic and context

• Minimal repetition of words

• Effective use of collocations and word forms

Example:

• High Band (8-9): Demonstrates flexibility and precision in word choice.

• Low Band (5-6): Vocabulary is limited, repetitive, or occasionally inappropriate.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

Key Features:

• A mix of simple and complex sentence structures

• Correct use of tenses, articles, prepositions, etc.

• Minimal grammatical errors

• Consistent punctuation and sentence structure

Example:

• High Band (8-9): Frequent use of accurate and varied grammar.

• Low Band (5-6): Frequent errors that may affect clarity and reduce understanding.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors Table

Below is a simplified version of how band descriptors are applied:

Tips to Improve Based on Band Descriptors

1. Task Response

• Understand the question before you start.

• Write an introduction, body, and conclusion.

• Give clear examples to support your ideas.

2. Coherence and Cohesion

• Plan your essay first.

• Use linking words like However, Therefore, Also.

• Keep one main idea in each paragraph.

3. Lexical Resource

• Read more to learn new words.

• Use synonyms to avoid repeating words.

• Try to use natural word combinations.

4. Grammar

• Write different sentence types (simple, complex).

• Watch out for grammar mistakes.

• Use grammar books or tools to practise.

Also Check:

• How to improve IELTS writing score
• IELTS Writing Mistakes
• IELTS Pie Chart Task 1

Guidance of PW IELTS

Physics Wallah offers multiple online IELTS courses for all students. Follow the IELTS pages to better prepare for the exam.