IELTS Writing Task 2: Should College Athletes Be Paid? – Sample Essays and Analysis for Band 6-9

The topic of whether college athletes should be paid has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on analysis of past exam papers and current trends, this subject is likely to appear in future tests due to its relevance and controversy. Let’s examine a typical question on this topic and provide sample essays for different band scores.

College athletes payment debate

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that college athletes should be paid for their participation in sports, while others believe they should not. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss arguments for paying college athletes
2. Discuss arguments against paying college athletes
3. Provide your personal opinion on the matter

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at two sample essays, one for Band 8-9 and another for Band 6-7.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

The debate over whether college athletes should receive financial compensation for their sporting endeavors has been a contentious issue in recent years. While some argue that these student-athletes deserve monetary rewards for their contributions, others maintain that the current system of scholarships and educational benefits is sufficient. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own stance on the matter.

Proponents of paying college athletes argue that these young people dedicate a significant amount of time and effort to their sports, often at the expense of their studies and personal lives. Many college sports programs generate substantial revenue for their institutions, yet the athletes themselves do not directly benefit from this financial success. Moreover, the risk of career-ending injuries is ever-present, potentially jeopardizing future professional opportunities. Compensating these athletes financially could provide them with a safety net and acknowledge their valuable contributions to their schools.

On the other hand, those opposed to paying college athletes contend that the primary purpose of attending college is to receive an education. They argue that athletic scholarships, which often cover tuition, room, and board, are already a form of payment. Additionally, introducing a pay system could lead to inequalities between different sports and institutions, potentially compromising the amateur status of college athletics. There are also concerns that paid athletes might prioritize their sport over their academic pursuits, undermining the educational mission of universities.

In my opinion, while the current system of athletic scholarships provides significant benefits, there is room for improvement in how we support college athletes. Rather than direct payment, I believe a more nuanced approach would be beneficial. This could include establishing trust funds for athletes to access after graduation, providing comprehensive health insurance that extends beyond their college years, and offering enhanced career development programs. Such measures would address many of the concerns raised by advocates of payment while maintaining the spirit of amateur athletics and the primacy of education in the college experience.

In conclusion, the issue of paying college athletes is complex and multifaceted. While valid arguments exist on both sides, a middle ground that enhances support for athletes without fundamentally altering the amateur nature of college sports seems the most prudent path forward. As this debate continues, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being and future prospects of student-athletes while preserving the integrity of higher education.

(Word count: 398)

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

The question of whether college athletes should be paid for playing sports is a hot topic these days. Some people think it’s a good idea, while others disagree. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and share my thoughts on the matter.

Those who support paying college athletes have some good points. First, many college sports, especially football and basketball, make a lot of money for schools. It seems fair that the athletes who help create this wealth should get a share. Also, being a college athlete takes a lot of time and effort, which can make it hard to have a part-time job like other students. Paying them could help with their living expenses.

On the other hand, there are reasons why people think college athletes shouldn’t be paid. The main argument is that they already get benefits like scholarships, which cover their tuition and sometimes living costs. These can be worth a lot of money. Another concern is that paying athletes might make college sports too much like professional leagues, taking away from the spirit of amateur competition.

In my opinion, I think there should be a middle ground. While I don’t believe college athletes should be paid large salaries, I do think they should get more support. This could include things like better health insurance, more help with career planning, and maybe a small stipend for living expenses. This way, we can help the athletes without changing the whole system of college sports.

To sum up, the issue of paying college athletes has good arguments on both sides. While I don’t think they should be paid like professionals, I believe we should find ways to support them better. It’s important to balance the needs of the athletes with the goals of college education and sports.

(Word count: 309)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure – introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, personal opinion, and conclusion. This organization is crucial for achieving a high band score.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases (e.g., “contentious issue,” “jeopardizing,” “nuanced approach”), while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures, including relative clauses and conditional statements. The Band 6-7 essay uses mainly simple and compound sentences but still shows some variety.

4. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed and nuanced arguments.

5. Cohesion and Coherence: The Band 8-9 essay uses a variety of linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler transitions but still maintains a logical flow.

Important Vocabulary to Remember

1. Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/: causing or likely to cause disagreement
2. Revenue (noun) /ˈrevənjuː/: income, especially when of an organization and of a substantial nature
3. Jeopardize (verb) /ˈdʒepərdaɪz/: put (someone or something) into a situation in which there is a danger of loss, harm, or failure
4. Amateur (adjective) /ˈæmətər/: engaging in a pursuit on an unpaid basis
5. Stipend (noun) /ˈstaɪpend/: a fixed regular sum paid as a salary or allowance
6. Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/: having many different aspects or features
7. Primacy (noun) /ˈpraɪməsi/: the fact of being primary, preeminent, or more important
8. Compromise (verb) /ˈkɒmprəmaɪz/: settle a dispute by mutual concession

In conclusion, the topic of whether college athletes should be paid is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Other related questions might include discussing the impact of commercialization on college sports or examining the balance between athletics and academics in universities. To improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.