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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people think it is very important to get a university education. Others feel we should encourage more young people to take up a trade such as plumbing, painting or building to ensure a good balance of skills in our society. Discuss both these views and give your opinion. 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:

Some people think it is very important to get a university education. Others feel we should encourage more young people to take up a trade such as plumbing, painting or building to ensure a good balance of skills in our society.

In today's society, the importance of a university education is a topic of debate. While some individuals emphasize the significance of obtaining a university degree, others advocate for encouraging more young people to pursue trades such as plumbing, painting, or building. This essay will discuss both perspectives and provide my opinion on the matter.

On the one hand, proponents of university education argue that it equips individuals with critical thinking skills, knowledge, and expertise in various fields. They believe that a university degree opens up more opportunities for career advancement and higher earning potential. For instance, a study conducted by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that individuals with a bachelor's degree earned significantly more than those with only a high school diploma.

On the other hand, advocates for trade professions argue that such skills are vital for maintaining a well-balanced society. They emphasize the importance of trades in providing essential services and contributing to the infrastructure of a country. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, tradespeople, such as electricians and plumbers, played a crucial role in ensuring that essential services remained operational.

In my opinion, both pathways have their own merits, and it is crucial to strike a balance between the two. While a university education can lead to diverse career opportunities and intellectual growth, trade professions are indispensable for the functioning of society. Therefore, it is essential to encourage young people to consider both options and choose based on their interests and aptitudes.

In conclusion, while some emphasize the significance of obtaining a university education, others advocate for encouraging more young people to pursue trades. Both pathways have their own importance, and it is vital to maintain a balance of skills in society.

Model Essay #2:

Some people think it is very important to get a university education. Others feel we should encourage more young people to take up a trade such as plumbing, painting or building to ensure a good balance of skills in our society.

In the ongoing discourse about education and skills in society, there is a divergence of views regarding the importance of university education versus the encouragement of young people to take up trade professions. While some argue for the significance of university education, others advocate for promoting trade skills to ensure a well-rounded society. This essay will explore these contrasting perspectives and provide my opinion on the matter.

Those in favor of university education assert that it is crucial for personal development, career prospects, and the advancement of society as a whole. They argue that a university degree fosters critical thinking, innovation, and expertise in specialized fields, which are essential for driving progress and addressing complex societal challenges. Moreover, many high-paying and prestigious careers often require a university education as a prerequisite.

Conversely, proponents of trade professions underscore the practicality and indispensability of skills such as plumbing, painting, and building. They contend that these professions are vital for maintaining infrastructure, providing essential services, and ensuring the smooth functioning of society. Furthermore, trade skills offer viable career paths with opportunities for entrepreneurship and job security.

In my view, while both university education and trade professions have their own merits, there is a need to prioritize the promotion of trade skills alongside traditional academic pathways. Encouraging young people to pursue trade professions can address the growing demand for skilled workers in essential sectors and contribute to a more balanced and resilient society.

In conclusion, the debate surrounding the significance of university education versus trade professions reflects the diverse needs of society. While university education is valuable for intellectual growth and specialized expertise, trade skills are equally essential for sustaining critical infrastructure and services. Striking a balance between these pathways is imperative for fostering a well-rounded society with a diverse range of skills and expertise.

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