The topic of free higher education has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 over the years. Based on past exam patterns and current global discussions, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore this topic in depth, providing sample essays and valuable insights for IELTS candidates.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that higher education should be free for everyone, while others argue that it should be paid for by individuals. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss arguments for free higher education
- Discuss arguments for individuals paying for higher education
- Present and justify your own opinion
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-scoring sample essay addressing the question:
In recent years, the debate over whether higher education should be free for all has intensified, with valid arguments on both sides. 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 more effectively to society. Moreover, a well-educated population is seen as a valuable national asset, driving innovation and economic growth. Countries like Germany and Norway have successfully implemented free university education, demonstrating its feasibility.
On the other hand, those who believe individuals should pay for higher education contend that it instills a sense of responsibility and value in students. They argue that when people invest their own money in education, they are more likely to take their studies seriously and complete their courses. Additionally, the financial burden on the state to provide free higher education is substantial, potentially leading to higher taxes or reduced funding for other crucial sectors like healthcare or primary education.
In my opinion, while completely free higher education may not be feasible for all countries, efforts should be made to make it as accessible as possible. A balanced approach could involve a combination of government subsidies, income-contingent loans, and scholarships based on merit and need. This would ensure that financial constraints do not prevent capable students from pursuing higher education while maintaining a degree of personal investment.
In conclusion, the ideal solution likely lies in finding a middle ground that balances societal benefits with individual responsibility. By implementing innovative funding models and focusing on accessibility, countries can work towards a system that maximizes the potential of their citizens without placing undue strain on public resources.
(Word count: 298)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:
Nowadays, there is a big discussion about whether higher education should be free for everyone or if people should pay for it themselves. This essay will look at both sides of this argument and give my opinion.
On one hand, many people think higher education should be free. They say this is fair because it gives everyone a chance to study, no matter how much money they have. Free education can help poor people get better jobs and earn more money. Also, when more people can go to university, the whole country can benefit because there are more educated workers.
However, other people argue that individuals should pay for their own higher education. They believe that when students pay for their studies, they value it more and work harder. Also, if the government pays for everyone’s education, it will cost a lot of money. This might mean less money for other important things like hospitals or schools for younger children.
In my opinion, I think the best solution is somewhere in the middle. Maybe the government can help pay for some of the costs, but students should also pay a part. This way, education is not too expensive, but students still feel responsible for their studies. The government could also give special help to very poor students who cannot pay anything.
To conclude, while free higher education for everyone sounds good, it might not be possible in every country. I believe a mix of government help and student payments is the best way to make higher education available to more people without making it too expensive for the country.
(Word count: 267)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure – introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, personal opinion, and conclusion.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases (e.g., “contentious issue”, “socioeconomic backgrounds”, “income-contingent loans”) compared to the Band 6-7 essay.
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Grammar: The higher-band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentence structures and more accurate use of linking words.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed and nuanced arguments.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay shows better paragraph and idea organization, with smoother transitions between points.
Vocabulary to Remember
Here are some useful words and phrases related to this topic:
- Tertiary education (noun) /ˈtɜːrʃəri ˌedʒuˈkeɪʃn/: Education beyond high school level
- Socioeconomic (adjective) /ˌsəʊsiəʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/: Related to social and economic factors
- Feasible (adjective) /ˈfiːzəbl/: Possible to do easily or conveniently
- Subsidies (noun) /ˈsʌbsɪdiz/: Money given by a government to help an industry or business
- Income-contingent (adjective) /ˈɪnkʌm kənˈtɪndʒənt/: Dependent on or varying with income
- Accessibility (noun) /əkˌsesəˈbɪləti/: The quality of being able to be reached or entered
- Innovative (adjective) /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/: Featuring new methods; advanced and original
Conclusion
The topic of free higher education is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government in funding education
- The impact of student debt on society
- Balancing public and private funding in education
- The economic benefits of a highly educated workforce
Remember to analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, use a range of vocabulary and grammar structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.