The topic of free higher education for all is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on past exam trends and analysis of various IELTS preparation websites, this topic has appeared frequently and is likely to continue being a popular subject in future tests. Let’s examine a sample question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams:
Some people believe that higher education should be free for everyone, while others argue that it should be paid for. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for free higher education
- Discuss arguments against free higher education (i.e., in favor of paid education)
- Present and justify their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, followed by detailed analyses.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Higher education has long been a topic of debate, with some advocating for free access to university-level studies for all, while others believe individuals should bear the cost. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on this contentious issue.
Proponents of free higher education argue that it promotes equal opportunities and social mobility. By removing financial barriers, talented individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds can access tertiary education, potentially breaking cycles of poverty and contributing to a more educated society. Furthermore, a highly educated workforce can drive innovation and economic growth, benefiting the nation as a whole. Countries like Germany and Norway have successfully implemented free higher education systems, demonstrating the feasibility of this approach.
On the other hand, those in favor of paid higher education contend that it ensures the quality and sustainability of educational institutions. They argue that tuition fees provide necessary funding for research, infrastructure, and faculty salaries, maintaining high academic standards. Additionally, students who pay for their education may be more motivated to complete their studies and value their degrees more highly. Critics also point out that free education could lead to overcrowding in universities and potentially devalue degrees.
In my opinion, while both arguments have merit, a balanced approach would be most beneficial. I believe that higher education should be heavily subsidized but not entirely free. This model, similar to that adopted in countries like Sweden, would significantly reduce financial barriers while still maintaining a sense of personal investment. Implementing income-based repayment systems for minimal tuition fees could ensure that education remains accessible to all, regardless of their financial background, while also providing some funding for institutions.
In conclusion, the debate over free higher education is complex, with valid arguments on both sides. A hybrid system that prioritizes accessibility while maintaining quality and sustainability could be the optimal solution, fostering a more equitable and prosperous society.
(Word count: 309)
Debate on free higher education
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and meets all the criteria for a high band score:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Furthermore,” “In conclusion”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise (e.g., “contentious issue,” “socioeconomic backgrounds,” “devalue degrees”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional statements).
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, there is a debate about whether higher education should be free for everyone or if people should pay for it. This essay will discuss both sides of this argument and give my opinion.
Some people think higher education should be free. They say this is good because it gives everyone a chance to study, no matter how much money they have. If education is free, more people can go to university and get good jobs. This can help the country because there will be more skilled workers. For example, in some countries like Germany, university is free, and many people can study there.
However, other people believe that higher education should not be free. They think that if people pay for their education, they will value it more and work harder. Also, universities need money to pay teachers and buy equipment. If education is free, the government has to pay for everything, which can be very expensive.
In my opinion, I think higher education should be partly free. The government could pay some of the costs, but students should also pay a small amount. This way, education is still affordable for most people, but students will also value their studies because they are paying something. Also, universities can still get some money to improve their facilities.
To conclude, there are good reasons for both free and paid higher education. I believe a mix of both systems could work well, making education accessible while still valuing it.
(Word count: 253)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates good writing skills but has some limitations compared to the Band 8-9 essay:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the higher band essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (e.g., repeated use of “Also”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the Band 8-9 essay (e.g., repeated use of “good”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences but with less variety than the higher band essay.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly but with less depth and fewer specific examples compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Tertiary education (noun) – /ˈtɜːrʃəri ˌedʒuˈkeɪʃn/ – education at university level
- Socioeconomic (adjective) – /ˌsəʊsioʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – relating to both social and economic factors
- Contentious (adjective) – /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- Subsidized (adjective) – /ˈsʌbsɪdaɪzd/ – supported with money to reduce costs
- Feasibility (noun) – /ˌfiːzəˈbɪləti/ – the possibility that can be made, done, or achieved
- Devalue (verb) – /diːˈvæljuː/ – to reduce the worth or importance of something
- Repayment (noun) – /rɪˈpeɪmənt/ – the act of paying back money
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over a period of time
Students from diverse backgrounds accessing higher education
In conclusion, the topic of free higher education for all is a complex and nuanced issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the different perspectives and practicing essay writing, you can improve your ability to tackle this and similar topics effectively. Remember to always address all parts of the question, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and develop your ideas with relevant examples and explanations.
To further enhance your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you internalize the essay structure and improve your ability to express your ideas clearly and coherently. Additionally, you may want to explore related topics such as the prioritization of STEM education in universities or how technology is reshaping education systems worldwide to broaden your understanding of educational issues that may appear in IELTS Writing Task 2.
