Some people believe that the academic success of students depends on good teachers at schools. Others think that it depends on the attitude and determination of the students. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

Same questionCompare 3 different answers (Band 8)

Sample Response

1

The factors contributing to students' academic success have long been a subject of considerable debatetopic of heated debate. Some argue that good teachers are central to academic achievementthe key to academic achievement, while others believe that students' attitudes and determination play a more significant role. This essay will discuss both viewpoints and argue thatpresent an opinion that a combination of good teachers and student determination is essential for academic success.

2

Those who emphasise the importance of good teachersProponents of the importance of good teachers argue that educators play a central role in shapingare instrumental in shaping students' learning experiences and outcomes. Effective teachers not only impart knowledge but also inspire and motivate students to reach their full potential. They employ innovative teaching methods, offer individualised supportprovide individualised attention, and create a supportive learning environment. For example, a teacher who recognises a student's unique strengths and weaknesses can tailor their instruction to meet that student's specific needs, thereby improving their understanding and retentionthereby enhancing their understanding and retention of the material. Good teachers can also ignite a passion for learning, increasing students' engagement with their studiesmaking students more engaged and interested in their studies.

3

On the other hand, those who emphasise the importance of students' attitudes and determination argue that intrinsic motivation is the primary driver of academic success. A student's commitment to their education, their willingness to put in the necessary effort, and their persistence in the face of challenges are crucial determinants of their performance. For instance, a highly motivated student who studies diligentlywho is dedicated to their studies is likely to excel, even in the absence of exceptional teaching. This perspective highlights the idea that no matter how skilled a teacher may be, without the student's active participation and effort, academic success is unlikely.

4

In my opinion, both good teachers and student determination are essential for academic success. While effective teachers can provide the guidance, support, and resources necessary for learning, students must also be motivated and committed to their education to fully benefit from these opportunities.

5

In conclusion, good teachers can inspire and guide students, while students' motivation and hard work are necessary to achieve their academic goals. Therefore, the combined efforts of dedicated teachers and determined studentsthe synergy between dedicated teachers and determined students creates an optimal learning environment where academic achievement can thrive.

Overall assessment

Why this response received Band 8.0

The response is strongest in its clear, balanced treatment of both views and its consistently well-supported position that teachers and students contribute jointly to achievement. Its main limitation is that the discussion is somewhat predictable and occasionally repeats the same core ideas in different wording. The highest-priority improvement is to deepen the analysis by examining how the two factors interact in specific circumstances rather than mainly restating their separate benefits.

Band score breakdown

IELTS Writing Criteria Scores

TR

Task Response

8.0
Scoring rule

Both views are fully addressed, the writer's position is clear throughout, and the main ideas are relevant and well developed.

Next step

Develop the interaction between teacher quality and student motivation more analytically to make the argument less predictable.

CC

Coherence and Cohesion

8.0
Scoring rule

Ideas progress logically through well-focused paragraphs, with cohesive devices used naturally and unobtrusively.

Next step

Reduce slight repetition between the opinion paragraph and conclusion so that each paragraph adds a distinct function.

LR

Lexical Resource

8.0
Scoring rule

Vocabulary is varied, precise, and consistently appropriate for discussing education, motivation, and achievement.

Next step

Use a few more context-specific formulations to replace repeated references to good teachers, determination, and academic success.

GRA

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

8.0
Scoring rule

A wide range of complex structures is handled accurately, with only rare minor lapses that do not affect clarity.

Next step

Refine occasional wordy sentence patterns to make the already accurate writing even more concise and controlled.

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IELTS Writing Task 2

Some people believe that the academic success of students depends on good teachers at schools. Others think that it depends on the attitude and determination of the students. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

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