The topic of whether young people should be encouraged to work abroad before starting their careers is a common and relevant theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject has appeared in various forms in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a popular topic due to its relevance in today’s globalized world. Let’s explore this theme through sample essays for different band scores, along with detailed analyses to help you improve your IELTS writing skills.
Young professionals working abroad
Analyzing the Task
Let’s focus on the following question:
Some people believe that young people should be 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 decide to do this.
This question asks you to discuss both the advantages and disadvantages of taking a gap year to work or travel before starting university. It’s important to:
- Address both working and traveling aspects
- Provide a balanced discussion of advantages and disadvantages
- Use specific examples to support your points
- Conclude with a summary of your main ideas
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Taking a gap year to work or travel between high school and university has become increasingly popular among young people. This essay will discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of this decision.
One of the primary advantages of taking a year off to work or travel is the opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Young individuals can gain valuable life experiences, develop independence, and broaden their perspectives by immersing themselves in different cultures or work environments. This exposure can help them make more informed decisions about their future studies and career paths. Additionally, working during this period can provide financial benefits, allowing students to save money for their education or gain practical skills relevant to their chosen field of study.
However, there are also potential disadvantages to consider. One significant concern is the risk of losing academic momentum. After a year away from formal education, some students may find it challenging to readjust to the rigorous academic environment of university. Moreover, delaying entry into higher education could potentially put these individuals at a disadvantage in the job market, as they may graduate a year later than their peers.
Another drawback is the financial burden that travel can impose on young people and their families. While working can offset some costs, extensive travel often requires substantial financial resources, which may not be feasible for everyone. Additionally, some may argue that this year could be more productively spent advancing one’s education or career goals directly.
In conclusion, the decision to take a gap year for work or travel before university offers both advantages and disadvantages. While it presents opportunities for personal growth and skill development, it also carries risks such as academic setbacks and potential financial strain. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual circumstances and goals. Young people should carefully weigh these factors to make an informed decision that aligns with their long-term aspirations.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both advantages and disadvantages of working and traveling during a gap year.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is sophisticated and precise, with a wide range of words and phrases used accurately (e.g., “immersing themselves,” “rigorous academic environment,” “offset some costs”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of complex structures used accurately, with only minor errors that do not impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, showing depth of analysis.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, many young people choose to work or travel for a year after finishing high school and before starting university. This essay will discuss the good and bad points of this decision.
There are several advantages to taking a gap year. Firstly, young people can gain work experience, which can help them in their future careers. They can learn important skills like teamwork and time management. Secondly, traveling can broaden their horizons and help them learn about different cultures. This experience can make them more independent and confident.
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider. One problem is that students might find it hard to go back to studying after a year of freedom. They might lose their study habits and struggle when they start university. Another issue is that taking a year off means they will graduate later than their friends, which could put them behind in the job market.
Additionally, working or traveling for a year can be expensive. Not all young people can afford to travel, and some may need to work just to save money for their studies. This could create inequality between those who can afford to take a gap year and those who can’t.
In conclusion, while taking a year to work or travel before university has benefits like gaining experience and personal growth, it also has drawbacks such as potential academic challenges and financial issues. Young people should think carefully about their own situation before making this decision.
(Word count: 253)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates good writing skills but falls short of the highest band scores:
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Task Response: The essay addresses the task, discussing both advantages and disadvantages, but lacks some depth in analysis.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less varied and sophisticated compared to the higher band essay. Some phrases are repeated (e.g., “young people”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences but lacks the range and accuracy of the Band 8-9 essay.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but the development is less thorough than in the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Gap year (n.) – /ɡæp jɪər/ – A year taken off between high school and university
- Broaden horizons (phrase) – /ˈbrɔːdn həˈraɪznz/ – To expand one’s range of experiences and knowledge
- Immerse (v.) – /ɪˈmɜːrs/ – To involve oneself deeply in an activity or environment
- Academic momentum (n.) – /ækəˈdemɪk məˈmentəm/ – The forward motion or progress in one’s studies
- Rigorous (adj.) – /ˈrɪɡərəs/ – Extremely thorough and careful
- Offset (v.) – /ˈɒfset/ – To balance or compensate for something
- Financial strain (n.) – /faɪˈnænʃl streɪn/ – Pressure or stress related to money matters
- Personal growth (n.) – /ˈpɜːsənl ɡrəʊθ/ – The process of improving oneself
- Self-discovery (n.) – /self dɪˈskʌvəri/ – The process of acquiring insight into one’s own character
- Long-term aspirations (n.) – /lɒŋ tɜːm æspəˈreɪʃnz/ – Goals or ambitions for the future
Conclusion
The topic of young people working or traveling abroad before starting their careers is a common and relevant theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. By studying these sample essays and analyses, you can improve your writing skills and better prepare for similar questions in the IELTS exam.
For further practice, consider writing your own essay on this topic or related themes such as:
- The impact of international work experience on career prospects
- The role of travel in personal development
- The benefits and drawbacks of starting university education at a later age
Remember to focus on clear organization, varied vocabulary, and well-developed ideas. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
