Too few science students: IELTS Task 2 essay #1, band 6.5
A student’s answer to this repeated IELTS question, shared without their name and marked by Axiom on the four criteria. Select a highlighted passage to see how it could be revised, and why.
244 words. Marked by Axiom on 17 September 2026. Estimated by AI. It isn’t an official IELTS score.
Task 2244 words
In many countries, too few students choose to study science subjects. What causes this, and what effects might it have on society?
In many countries, fewer students choose to study science subjects at school and university. This essay will discuss the main reasons for this situation and its possible effects on society.
One important reason is that some students think science subjects are difficult. Subjects such as physics, chemistry and biology require a lot of studying and understanding. Another reason is that science classes can sometimes be boring because teachers may use too much theory and not enough practical activities. They may think that science only leads to jobs such as being a teacher or a scientist.
Lexical resource
RevisedTherefore, many students opt for subjects they perceive as easier.
The revised sentence provides a more natural and idiomatic phrasing.
Grammar & accuracy
RevisedAdditionally, some students are unaware of the diverse career opportunities that science can offer in the future.
The revised sentence provides a more complex and varied sentence structure.
First, there may be a shortage of scientists, doctors, engineers and other specialists in the future. These workers are important for the development of a country. For example, scientists can create new medicines and technologies that can improve people’s lives. Second, countries may have to employ more specialists from other countries if there are not enough local science graduates.
Lexical resource
RevisedThis situation can potentially impact several sectors of society.
The revised sentence provides a more specific and impactful phrasing.
Coherence & cohesion
RevisedThis can lead to increased costs and problems for some industries.
The revised sentence provides a clearer connection between the shortage of local science graduates and the potential impact on industries.
In conclusion, students may avoid science because they find it difficult or boring and because they do not understand its career opportunities. Schools should make science lessons more interesting and pra
Coherence & cohesion
RevisedContinued shortages of important specialists in society could potentially slow down development.
The revised sentence provides a more direct and clear explanation of the potential effects on society.
Select a highlighted passage to see its suggested revision.
What Axiom wrote for each criterion: why the answer earned its band, and what to work on next.
Coherence & cohesion
Band 6.0/ 9
The essay is logically organized and the ideas are connected well. However, there are a few areas where the flow of ideas could be improved.
Suggestions
- Try to use a wider range of linking words to connect your ideas.
- Make sure that your conclusion effectively summarizes the main points of your essay.
Sentence revisions 2
RevisedThis can lead to increased costs and problems for some industries.
The revised sentence provides a clearer connection between the shortage of local science graduates and the potential impact on industries.
RevisedContinued shortages of important specialists in society could potentially slow down development.
The revised sentence provides a more direct and clear explanation of the potential effects on society.
Grammar & accuracy
Band 7.0/ 9
The essay uses a variety of complex structures and there are few grammatical errors. However, there is room for improvement in terms of sentence variety and complexity.
Sentence revisions 2
RevisedAdditionally, some students are unaware of the diverse career opportunities that science can offer in the future.
The revised sentence provides a more complex and varied sentence structure.
RevisedThis shortage can be expensive and may pose challenges for some industries.
The revised sentence provides a more varied sentence structure and more precise language.
Lexical resource
Band 7.0/ 9
The essay uses a good range of vocabulary and there is evidence of some less common and idiomatic language. However, there are a few instances of awkward or incorrect word choice.
Sentence revisions 2
RevisedTherefore, many students opt for subjects they perceive as easier.
The revised sentence provides a more natural and idiomatic phrasing.
RevisedThis situation can potentially impact several sectors of society.
The revised sentence provides a more specific and impactful phrasing.
Task response
Band 6.0/ 9
The essay effectively addresses the prompt by discussing the reasons behind the lack of interest in science subjects and the potential effects on society. The ideas are relevant and well-explained, but the essay falls short of the required 250 words, which limits the depth of the argument. The conclusion is somewhat abrupt and does not fully summarize the key points discussed.
Suggestions
- Provide more specific examples to support your points.
- Ensure that your conclusion effectively summarizes the main points of your essay.
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