Task 2 · · 5 samples

Some people think local governments should spend more money on public learning centres for adults. Others believe this money should be used to improve schools for children. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. Write at least 250 words.

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Plan your answer

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Ideas to explore

Schools provide foundational skills and reach nearly all children.
Adult learning can help workers retrain and parents participate in community life.
Prioritise essential school provision, then support targeted adult courses.

Suggested structure

Introduce both priorities and state your position.
Explain the case for schools with a concrete example.
Explain the case for adult centres and a funding condition.
Restate how the priorities can be balanced.

Useful vocabulary & examples

a qualified judgement: a conclusion with stated limits
Children’s schools should receive a secure basic level of funding, while targeted adult learning centres also deserve support. I favour allocating additional money according to local needs rather than treating the two groups as competitors.
practical consequences: effects on ordinary decisions or activities
Children’s schools should receive a secure basic level of funding, while targeted adult learning centres also deserve support. I favour allocating additional money according to local needs rather than treating the two groups as competitors.
a realistic alternative: another option that can work in the circumstances
Children’s schools should receive a secure basic level of funding, while targeted adult learning centres also deserve support. I favour allocating additional money according to local needs rather than treating the two groups as competitors.

Sample answers

Target Band 7 · Original model answer

294 words · Illustrative target band

Limited education budgets force local governments to decide whether to improve schools or expand learning opportunities for adults. Both options have clear benefits. I believe that essential school provision should take priority, but adult courses should be funded where they address a specific local need. Those who favour schools argue that early education has lasting effects. Children who leave primary school witho…

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