The topic of government subsidies for higher education is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and the current global focus on education accessibility, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams:

Some people believe that the government should subsidize the cost of university education for all students. Others think that this is not necessary. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss arguments for government subsidies for higher education
2. Present arguments against such subsidies
3. Provide a personal opinion on the matter

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s explore sample essays for different band scores, along with detailed analyses.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In recent years, the debate over whether governments should subsidize university education has gained significant traction. While some argue that this is essential for societal progress, others contend that it’s unnecessary and potentially counterproductive. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on the matter.

Proponents of government subsidies for higher education argue that it promotes equal opportunities and social mobility. By removing financial barriers, talented individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds can access quality education, thereby fostering a more equitable society. Moreover, a well-educated workforce contributes to economic growth and innovation, benefiting the nation as a whole. Countries like Germany and Norway, which offer free university education, have seen positive outcomes in terms of social equality and economic competitiveness.

On the other hand, critics argue that subsidizing higher education for all students is financially unsustainable and potentially unfair. They contend that it places an excessive burden on taxpayers, including those who may never benefit from university education themselves. Furthermore, some argue that free education may devalue the perceived worth of degrees and lead to overcrowding in universities. There’s also concern that it might reduce students’ motivation and commitment, as they aren’t personally investing in their education.

In my opinion, while universal free higher education may not be feasible or desirable, governments should implement targeted subsidy programs. These could focus on supporting students from low-income backgrounds, those pursuing fields critical to national development, or those demonstrating exceptional academic potential. This approach would strike a balance between promoting educational access and maintaining the quality and value of university degrees. Additionally, it would ensure that public funds are used efficiently to benefit those who need it most and contribute to national progress.

In conclusion, while blanket subsidies for all university students may not be the optimal solution, a nuanced approach to government support in higher education is crucial for fostering an equitable, prosperous society. By implementing targeted subsidy programs, governments can promote equal opportunities while ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of their educational investments.

Government subsidies for university education

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a high band score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “Moreover”, “On the other hand”, “Furthermore”).

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control (e.g., “societal progress”, “socioeconomic backgrounds”, “economic competitiveness”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “While some argue…, others contend…”, “By removing financial barriers,…”).

5. Development and Support: Each main idea is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Some people think the government should pay for university education for all students, but others disagree. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.

There are good reasons why the government should pay for university. First, it helps poor students get a good education. If university is free, anyone can go, not just rich people. This makes society more fair. Also, when more people go to university, the country gets more skilled workers. This is good for the economy.

However, there are also arguments against free university education. It costs a lot of money, and this money has to come from taxes. Some people think it’s not fair to make everyone pay for university when not everyone goes. Also, if university is free, some students might not take it seriously because they’re not paying for it themselves.

In my opinion, the government should help with university costs, but not make it completely free. They could give scholarships to smart students or students who don’t have much money. This way, people who need help can get it, but the government doesn’t have to pay for everyone.

To conclude, while free university education has some benefits, it also has problems. A better solution is for the government to give some help, but not pay for everything. This can make education more fair without spending too much money.

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates qualities that align with a Band 6-7 score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but uses simpler linking words (e.g., “First”, “Also”, “However”).

3. Lexical Resource: It uses an adequate range of vocabulary, though less sophisticated than the higher band essay (e.g., “good reasons”, “poor students”, “fair”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control.

5. Development and Support: Main ideas are supported, though the examples and explanations are less detailed than in the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Subsidize (verb) /ˈsʌb.sɪ.daɪz/ – to help pay for the costs of something
2. Socioeconomic (adjective) /ˌsəʊ.si.əʊ.iːk.əˈnɒm.ɪk/ – related to social and economic factors
3. Equitable (adjective) /ˈek.wɪ.tə.bəl/ – fair and impartial
4. Innovation (noun) /ˌɪn.əˈveɪ.ʃən/ – a new idea, device, or method
5. Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪ.nəˈbɪl.ə.ti/ – the ability to continue over a period of time
6. Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuː.ɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle differences
7. Competitiveness (noun) /kəmˈpet.ə.tɪv.nəs/ – the quality of being as good as or better than others
8. Counterproductive (adjective) /ˌkaʊn.tə.prəˈdʌk.tɪv/ – having the opposite of the desired effect

Conclusion

The topic of government subsidies for higher education is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as:

• The impact of free education on the job market
• Comparing different models of educational funding across countries
• The role of private sector in funding higher education

To practice, try writing your own essay on the given topic or one of these related themes. Share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills for the IELTS exam.

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

• Should University Education Be Free for All Students?
• The Role of Government in Ensuring Access to Education

Remember, consistent practice and exposure to a variety of topics is key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2.