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User-written IELTS example

Writing Academic Task 2 Band 4.0 Example

Original task prompt, user essay, band score, and related examples in the same report workspace.

352 words AcademicTask 2
Task 2

Illustrative target band for this original model answer.

Plan your answer

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Ideas to explore

  • Living away can develop practical independence because everyday responsibilities no longer happen automatically within the family home.
  • Moving can also widen educational choices.
  • The costs deserve equal attention.

Suggested structure

  1. Give a direct introduction and state the required position.
  2. Explain the first side or reason with a relevant example.
  3. Address the second side and the conditions that limit the claim.
  4. Return to the precise question in the conclusion.
Useful vocabulary & examples
practical independence
ability to organise ordinary daily responsibilities

Living away can develop practical independence because everyday responsibilities no longer happen automatically within the family home.

living expenses
costs of accommodation and daily needs

I generally consider the advantages of living away from home during university greater than the disadvantages, provided that the student has an affordable arrangement and access to support.

academic opportunity
access to a suitable course or learning activity

If they must work excessive hours to afford rent, the move may undermine the academic opportunity it was intended to create.

Task Prompt

In some countries, students live at home with their family while they study at university, whereas in other countries students attend university in another city. Do the advantages of living away from home during university outweigh the disadvantages?

User Essay Analysis

Review the public answer with report-style highlights.

Band 4.0

In several countries students may live at home during their studying, although in other countries students must leave their hometown due to the university location. I think, living away from home have some pros and cons, which I will discuss further, but in my opinion, the disadvantages outweigh advantages, because the cost of living is a serious burden for some students.

Living away can develop practical independence because everyday responsibilities no longer happen automatically within the family home. Students may need to organise meals, manage bills and plan study around household tasks. These activities are not always enjoyable, but learning to handle them can make the transition to employment and adult life less abrupt. The benefit comes from taking responsibility rather than merely having a different address.

Moving can also widen educational choices. The course that best matches a student's interests may be offered in another city. Remaining at home could mean choosing a less suitable subject simply to avoid relocation. Living near the chosen institution may make participation in group work and campus activities easier too, although that depends on the actual location and travel arrangements rather than being guaranteed.

The costs deserve equal attention. Accommodation and everyday expenses may be greater than living with family. Students can also miss familiar support, especially when facing a difficult period of study. If they must work excessive hours to afford rent, the move may undermine the academic opportunity it was intended to create. Independence should not be confused with coping entirely without help.

In my view, the combination of a suitable course and practical development usually justifies moving when the finances are realistic. Universities and families can help students plan a budget and identify support before the transition. Living at home remains a sensible alternative for someone with a good local course or circumstances that make relocation burdensome. There is no reason to treat that choice as evidence of immaturity.

In conclusion, I believe the disadvantages are greater for students who face substantial cost or inadequate support. Independence is valuable, but it should not be pursued at the expense of a manageable education.

Targeted Improvement Tips

1
Use the direct opening to answer the precise task and keep that judgement consistent.
2
Develop a relevant example through cause and consequence rather than leaving it as a name or list item.
3
Check the quoted clauses in context and qualify statements that imply a guaranteed outcome.

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