Part 3 · · 5 samples

Why might some adults find it difficult to learn a new skill?

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Plan your answer

Try your own response before reading the samples.

Ideas to explore

  • Consider time, confidence and access rather than blaming age alone.
  • Explain one barrier and distinguish it from ability.
  • Qualify generalisations and suggest a realistic change.

Suggested structure

  1. Give a main reason.
  2. Explain how it creates a barrier.
  3. Add a contrasting or qualifying point.
Useful vocabulary & examples
little spare time
an alternative way to express the main idea

One reason is that adults often have little spare time. A full-time job and family responsibilities can make it difficult to attend a weekly class or practise between lessons. Some also feel nervous about studying again after a long break. Flexible courses could help them fit regular practice around those commitments.

returning to study
a more precise expression for the supporting point

One reason is that adults often have little spare time. A full-time job and family responsibilities can make it difficult to attend a weekly class or practise between lessons. Some also feel nervous about studying again after a long break. Flexible courses could help them fit regular practice around those commitments.

rather than
expresses a contrast between two alternatives

The explanation should develop the point rather than repeat it.

Sample answers

Target Band 9 · Original model answer

89 words · Illustrative target band

I would distinguish difficulty learning from difficulty making room for learning. A working parent may be perfectly capable of understanding a new skill but have no uninterrupted time to practise it. There is also the discomfort of losing the competence we take for granted: an experienced professional suddenly becomes the person who needs everything explained. Neither barrier means adults cannot learn; it means the p…

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