IELTS Writing Task 2 prompt
Some people think that online learning is better than attending classes in person. Others believe that face-to-face learning is more effective. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Source practice test: IELTS Writing Test 3
Band 9 model answer
Expert-level response
Online learning has moved from a backup option to a normal part of education, but it has not made the physical classroom obsolete. In my view, digital courses are superior for access and flexibility, while face-to-face teaching remains stronger for younger learners and subjects that need immediate supervision.
The main strength of online learning is that it removes barriers of place, cost and timetable. A student in a small town can attend a statistics course taught by a leading university, replay a difficult explanation and study after work without travelling. This flexibility is especially valuable for adult learners, people with disabilities and candidates preparing for professional examinations. Online platforms can also personalise revision through quizzes and progress data, which a single teacher in a crowded room may struggle to do.
However, in-person education offers forms of learning that screens cannot fully replace. A good teacher can notice confusion, adjust the pace of a lesson and use the energy of the group to keep students engaged. Practical subjects such as laboratory science, nursing or drama also depend on equipment, body language and supervised practice. For children, the classroom teaches habits that are not purely academic, including punctuality, cooperation and respectful disagreement.
For these reasons, I do not think one mode is always better. Online learning is the more efficient model for independent learners and knowledge-based courses, whereas face-to-face classes are more effective when motivation, social development or hands-on practice matter. The best education systems should combine both rather than treating them as rivals.
Why this meets Band 9
- Fully addresses both views and gives a nuanced opinion instead of a one-sided preference.
- Progression is natural: access benefits, classroom benefits, then a balanced conclusion.
- Vocabulary is precise and topic-specific, with phrases such as 'personalise revision' and 'supervised practice'.
- Complex sentence forms are varied and controlled, with no noticeable grammatical slips.
Band 6 sample answer
Competent but limited response
Nowadays many students study on the internet, so some people say it is better than going to school or college. Other people think learning in a classroom is still more useful. I think both ways are good, but face-to-face learning is better for most young students.
Online learning has many benefits. Firstly, it is convenient because students can learn from home and they do not need to spend time on buses or trains. Also, lessons can be watched again, which helps students who did not understand the first time. For example, a worker who wants to improve English can study at night after finishing his job. This is a big advantage for busy people. Some shy students may also feel more comfortable asking questions by message.
On the other hand, classroom learning can give more support. When students sit with a teacher, they can ask questions immediately and the teacher can see if they are confused. Students also learn how to work with other people, which is important in real life. If they only study online, they may feel lonely or they may not concentrate because there are many distractions at home. In a classroom, teachers can also control discipline and make sure everyone joins the lesson.
In my opinion, online learning is useful for adults and simple subjects, but it should not replace normal classes. Schools should use computers and online videos, but teachers and classmates are still necessary for good education. A mixed system would be the most practical answer.
Why this sits around Band 6
- The answer addresses the question and gives a clear opinion, but the ideas are developed in a general way.
- Organisation is logical, although linking is sometimes mechanical: 'Firstly', 'On the other hand', 'In my opinion'.
- Vocabulary is adequate but not very flexible, with repeated words such as 'students', 'learning' and 'good'.
- Most sentences are clear, but the range is limited and some phrasing is simple for a high band.
Should an online learning essay agree with only one side?
No. This prompt asks you to discuss both views and give your opinion, so a high-band answer should explain the value of online learning and face-to-face learning before stating which is better in specific situations.