In the Academic IELTS Writing section, education-related essay topics often focus on various aspects of the learning process and educational systems. Common subtopics might include: the role of technology in education, the impact of online learning, the value of vocational training, the debate between private and public schooling, and the influence of global education trends on local systems.
Find useful IELTS vocabulary on education here.
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Task 1
In some countries young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting university studies. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decided to do this.
- Understand the Task – The question asks you to discuss both advantages and disadvantages of taking a gap year between high school and university.
- Identify the Focus – Focus specifically on young people and the impacts of either working or traveling during this time.
- Structure Your Essay –
- Body Paragraph 1: Discuss advantages such as personal growth, skill development, and maturity.
- Body Paragraph 2: Discuss disadvantages like academic disruption, loss of motivation, and potential negative influences.
- Maintain Balance – Present both sides equally before offering a well-reasoned opinion or summary in the conclusion.
Model Answer
For many adolescents, embarking on tertiary education can be an overwhelming experience. As a result, many of them choose to take a year off to travel or work, seeking a break from their routine and an opportunity to gain new experiences. However, some critics argue that such a hiatus may have negative effects, as it can lead to higher dropout rates and pose risks to their overall well-being.
Taking a year to explore new cultures or gain work experience can be deeply enriching. Young adults often lack the knowledge necessary to support themselves financially. Engaging in work or travel allows teenagers to acquire practical skills, such as managing finances, cooking, and doing laundry—all essential life skills. Furthermore, the soft skills developed through menial jobs can significantly benefit their future careers; for example, working as a cashier can impart valuable insights into business operations.
However, this gap year can also increase the likelihood of these youngsters abandoning their studies. Undoubtedly, academic pursuits can be demanding and stressful, and after a year off, some students may feel reluctant to continue their education. A student poised to enter medical school might discover that traveling the world brings more fulfillment than a career in science. Additionally, distancing oneself from the rigors of academic life can be perilous for teenagers, especially if they develop bad habits. For example, a young person might encounter and get addicted to drugs for the first time during their travels, which could jeapordize their future.
In conclusion, while a year spent traveling and working can be both enjoyable and instrumental in enhancing social skills, it can also sabotage a young person’s future career prospects and expose them to significant risks. A right balance will need to be maintained if students choose to take a study sabbatical.
Essay Question: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decided to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting university studies.
Introduction
- Clarity & Thesis Statement Effectiveness: The introduction clearly outlines the topic and presents a balanced thesis statement, indicating both advantages and disadvantages.
Body Paragraphs
- Main Arguments/Examples Used:
- Advantages: Gaining practical skills and soft skills through work or travel.
- Disadvantages: Increased dropout rates and potential exposure to negative influences.
- Argument Balance, Coherence, and Cohesion: The essay maintains a balanced discussion, with clear transitions between advantages and disadvantages, enhancing coherence.
Conclusion
- Effectiveness in Summarizing and Reinforcing the Opinion: The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and reinforces the dual nature of the experience.
Useful Vocabulary, Phrases, and Complex Structures
High-Level Vocabulary Words:
- – Enriching (to enhance or improve)
- Jeopardize (to put at risk)
- Sabotage – (to destroy)
- Fulfillment (satisfaction or happiness)
- Sabbatical – (a period of time when somebody, especially a teacher at a university, is allowed to stop their normal work in order to study or travel)
Useful Academic Phrases:
- “As a result”
- “For example “
- “However”
Complex Sentence Examples:
- “Taking a year to explore new cultures or gain work experience can be deeply enriching.”
- “Additionally, distancing oneself from the rigors of academic life can be perilous for teenagers.”
Task 2
Computers are becoming an essential part of education. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages and give your own opinion.
- Understand the Task – Discuss both pros and cons of computers in education and give your opinion.
- Structure –
- Body 1: Benefits like faster learning, online tools, and easier communication.
- Body 2: Downsides such as overdependence, less peer interaction, and unreliable sources.
- State Your View – Clearly present your stance in both the intro and conclusion.
- Support with Examples – Use relevant tools or situations students face today.
Model Answer
One of the most conspicuous trends in modern society is the growing reliance on computers in educational institutions. While this phenomenon has both advantages and disadvantages; I believe that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. In this essay, I will discuss both aspects before arriving at a conclusion.
The advantages of this growing trend are manifold. The most prominent benefit is that students can communicate instantaneously with their educators, using applications and tools like Skype and Messenger. Not only does this let learners connect with their instructors remotely, thereby saving both time and money, but it also allows them to collaborate on assignments and conduct research more efficiently. It is clear then why many people including myself, advocate for the integration of computers into education.
Despite the aforementioned advantages, there are notable drawbacks that should not be ignored. The primary concern is that information found on the Internet is not always reliable or accurate, as the sources of published content are frequently unverified. Furthermore, encouraging young individuals to rely heavily on computers during their educational journey can lead to diminished face-to-face interactions with peers, which may adversely affect their overall communication skills. When viewed from this perspective, the disadvantages of incorporating computers into learning become increasingly apparent.
In conclusion, despite certain drawbacks, the advantages of computer-based education are indeed too significant to overlook. The increased accessibility to resources, enhanced communication between students and educators, and the ability to collaborate effectively not only improve academic performance but also prepare students for the technological demands of the future.
Essay Question: Computers are becoming an essential part of education. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages and give your own opinion.
Introduction
- Clarity & Thesis Statement Effectiveness: The introduction clearly outlines the topic and presents a strong thesis statement indicating the writer’s opinion that advantages outweigh disadvantages.
Body Paragraphs
- Main Arguments/Examples Used:
- Advantages: Instant communication with teachers, efficiency in completing assignments and research.
- Disadvantages: Reliability of online information, reduced face-to-face interactions affecting communication skills.
- Argument Balance, Coherence, and Cohesion: The essay maintains a balanced discussion of both sides, with clear transitions and logical flow between points.
Conclusion
- Effectiveness in Summarizing and Reinforcing the Opinion: The conclusion succinctly reiterates the main arguments and reinforces the opinion that the advantages of computer integration in education are substantial.
Useful Vocabulary, Phrases, and Complex Structures
High-Level Vocabulary Words:
- Phenomenon: observable occurrence
- Manifold: numerous and varied
- Prominent: important or well-known
- Diminished: made smaller or less
Useful Academic Phrases:
- One of the most conspicuous trends.
- Despite the aforementioned advantages.
Complex Sentence Examples:
- Not only does this let learners connect with their instructors remotely, thereby saving both time and money.
- When viewed from this perspective, the disadvantages of incorporating computers into learning become increasingly apparent.
