The topic of whether higher education should be accessible to all citizens is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and current societal debates, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays for different band scores, focusing on the following question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that higher education should be accessible to all students, while others think universities should only accept the best students. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that higher education should be accessible to all students
- Discuss the opposing view that universities should only accept the best students
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your personal stance.
Higher Education Accessibility
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In the ongoing debate about access to higher education, some argue for universal accessibility, while others advocate for selective admission based on academic merit. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of universal access to higher education argue that it is a fundamental right and a catalyst for social mobility. They contend that providing educational opportunities to all citizens, regardless of their background or previous academic performance, can lead to a more equitable society. For instance, in countries like Germany, where university education is free and widely accessible, there is often a higher degree of social mobility and economic stability. Furthermore, advocates of this view argue that a diverse student body enhances the learning experience for all, fostering creativity and innovation through the exchange of varied perspectives.
On the other hand, those who support selective admission to universities argue that it maintains academic standards and ensures the efficient use of resources. They believe that admitting only the most academically gifted students creates an environment of excellence that pushes individuals to reach their full potential. For example, prestigious institutions like Oxford and Cambridge in the UK have rigorous selection processes, which have contributed to their world-class reputations and research output. Additionally, supporters of this view contend that limited resources in higher education should be allocated to those most likely to succeed and contribute significantly to their fields of study.
In my opinion, while there is merit to both arguments, I believe a balanced approach is most beneficial. Universities should strive to be as inclusive as possible, offering opportunities to students from diverse backgrounds. However, this should be coupled with maintaining certain academic standards to ensure that students can cope with the rigors of higher education. One possible solution could be implementing a tiered system where a portion of places are reserved for top academic performers, while others are allocated based on potential, diversity, and other relevant factors. This approach could help strike a balance between maintaining academic excellence and promoting equal access to education.
In conclusion, the question of higher education accessibility is complex and multifaceted. While universal access promotes equality and diverse perspectives, selective admission can drive excellence and efficient resource allocation. A nuanced approach that combines elements of both views may be the most effective way to address this issue in our modern, diverse societies.
(Word count: 375)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. It offers a nuanced perspective that acknowledges the merits of both arguments.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Furthermore,” “Additionally”) to link ideas and paragraphs.
Lexical Resource: The essay showcases a wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “catalyst for social mobility,” “rigorous selection processes,” “multifaceted”). It avoids repetition and demonstrates precision in word choice.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. It demonstrates controlled use of complex language (e.g., “While there is merit to both arguments,” “This approach could help strike a balance”).
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with explanations and examples. The essay presents a sophisticated argument that considers multiple perspectives.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The issue of who should have access to higher education is a topic of much debate. Some people think all students should be able to go to university, while others believe only the best students should be accepted. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support open access to higher education argue that it’s fair and gives everyone a chance to improve their lives. They say that if more people can go to university, society will benefit because there will be more educated people who can contribute to the economy and solve problems. For example, in countries where university is free or cheap, like in some European nations, more people from different backgrounds can get degrees and good jobs.
On the other hand, people who think universities should only accept the best students say this keeps the quality of education high. They argue that if universities only take top students, the classes will be more challenging and graduates will be better prepared for their careers. They also say that university resources are limited, so they should be used for students who are most likely to succeed.
In my opinion, I think there should be a mix of both approaches. Universities should try to be open to many students, especially those who might not have had many opportunities before. But they should also have some standards to make sure students can handle university-level work. Maybe universities could have different programs for different levels of students, or offer extra help to those who need it.
To conclude, while there are good points on both sides of this argument, I believe a balanced approach that gives opportunities to many students while maintaining educational standards is the best way forward. This could help create a society that is both fair and high-achieving.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good competence in several areas but falls short of excellence:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses some cohesive devices (e.g., “On the other hand,” “To conclude”) but could use a wider range more effectively.
Lexical Resource: The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary with some attempt at less common words (e.g., “contribute to the economy”). However, it lacks the sophistication and precision of higher band scores.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major errors that impede communication.
Development of Ideas: Each main point is supported with some explanation and examples. However, the ideas could be more fully elaborated and the arguments more nuanced.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Accessibility (noun) /əkˌsesəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to be reached or entered
- Equity (noun) /ˈekwəti/ – fairness and impartiality
- Meritocracy (noun) /ˌmerəˈtɒkrəsi/ – a system in which people get power or success because of their abilities, not because of their money or social position
- Inclusivity (noun) /ˌɪnkluːˈsɪvəti/ – the practice or policy of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized
- Rigorous (adjective) /ˈrɪɡərəs/ – extremely thorough and careful
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
- Catalyst (noun) /ˈkætəlɪst/ – a person or thing that precipitates an event or change
- Tiered (adjective) /tɪəd/ – arranged in tiers or levels
- Diverse (adjective) /daɪˈvɜːs/ – showing a great deal of variety; very different
Conclusion
The question of whether higher education should be accessible to all citizens is a complex and nuanced topic that requires careful consideration of multiple perspectives. As we’ve seen in the sample essays, there are valid arguments on both sides of the debate. To prepare for potential IELTS Writing Task 2 questions on this topic, consider practicing with variations such as:
- Should governments fully fund higher education for all citizens?
- Is academic merit the only fair criterion for university admissions?
- How can societies balance the need for educational excellence with the goal of equal opportunity?
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to address all parts of the question, provide well-developed arguments, and demonstrate a strong command of English language skills. We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam.