I nte r nati o nal e n g LI s h lan g uag e testi n g syste m

Should I include concession in my argument essay?

Addressing a viewpoint that opposes the argument essay’s position can help in-

crease the depth of a Task 2 response. However, this cross-examination can be 

considered optional if not explicitly asked for by the essay question. For Task 2 

questions that narrow the essay’s scope to the candidate’s position on a topic and 

nothing more, a thorough response can be written without examining alternative 

viewpoints.

Can I score band 9 if my essay is only 250 words?

Yes. Many candidates make the mistake of thinking that essays have to be long to 

be awarded band 9. If you fulfil all sections of the Task 2 marking rubric at a band 

9 level, and you write a response of 250 words or more in length, your essay will 

receive band 9. For the public version of the Task 2 band descriptors chart, visit the 

British Council’s website

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