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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Many people think that students who go to university directly from school benefit less and can contribute less to their courses than those who travel or do jobs before they start their university education. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Many people think that students who go to university directly from school benefit less and can contribute less to their courses than those who travel or do jobs before they start their university education. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement.

Many people believe that students who go to university straight from school may not benefit as much or contribute as effectively to their courses compared to those who have travelled or worked before starting their university education. I strongly disagree with this statement and believe that students who enroll in university directly after school can indeed benefit and contribute significantly to their education.

Firstly, students who enter university directly from school are often more focused and have a clear understanding of their academic goals. They are in the momentum of studying and are accustomed to the structured learning environment, which can enhance their ability to grasp complex concepts and excel in their courses. For example, a study conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics found that students who transitioned directly from high school to university tended to have higher academic performance compared to those who took a gap year.

Moreover, students who go to university directly from school have the advantage of retaining the knowledge and study habits acquired during their school years, which can be beneficial in their university education. They are also likely to be more adaptable to the academic demands of university life as they are still in the learning mindset.

Additionally, many students who choose to travel or work before starting their university education may face challenges in readjusting to academic life after a gap period. They may struggle to regain their focus and motivation for studying, which could hinder their ability to contribute effectively to their courses.

In conclusion, the idea that students who enter university directly from school benefit less and contribute less to their courses compared to those who travel or work beforehand is unfounded. Students who enroll in university straight after school can be highly focused, academically prepared, and ready to contribute effectively to their education. Therefore, I firmly disagree with the statement and believe that direct entry to university can be advantageous for students.

Model Essay #2:

Many people think that students who go to university directly from school benefit less and can contribute less to their courses than those who travel or do jobs before they start their university education. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement.

It is often argued that students who go to university directly from school may not benefit as much or contribute as effectively to their courses compared to those who have taken a gap year to travel or work. While there are valid arguments on both sides, I tend to agree with the viewpoint that students who take a break before starting their university education can gain valuable experiences and contribute more effectively to their courses.

Firstly, students who take a gap year to travel or work are exposed to diverse cultures, new perspectives, and real-world experiences, which can broaden their outlook and enrich their understanding of various subjects. These experiences can contribute to a more holistic and mature approach to learning, allowing them to bring unique insights to their courses. For instance, a friend of mine took a gap year to volunteer in different countries and shared how it significantly enhanced her understanding of global issues, making her contributions in university discussions more meaningful.

Moreover, the practical skills and work experience gained during a gap year can be highly beneficial in academic settings. Students who have worked or travelled may develop important life skills, such as independence, time management, and communication, which can translate into effective contributions to group projects and class discussions. These skills are often highly valued in university education and can enhance the overall learning experience for both the student and their peers.

Additionally, taking a break before university can provide students with the opportunity to explore their interests, passions, and career aspirations, leading to a more informed decision about their academic pursuits. This self-discovery can result in students being more motivated and dedicated to their chosen courses when they eventually start their university education.

In conclusion, while there are advantages to both directly entering university from school and taking a gap year, I believe that students who take a break before starting their university education can benefit from valuable experiences and contribute more effectively to their courses. Therefore, I support the idea that a gap year can enhance students' readiness for university and enrich their overall educational journey.

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