Task 2 · · 18 samples

In some countries young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting university studies. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decide to do this.

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Plan your answer

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Ideas to explore

Paid work can build responsibility and practical skills while helping young people save for university costs.
Travel can broaden perspectives and strengthen confidence through exposure to unfamiliar places and ways of life.
A gap year may disrupt study habits or become costly, especially when the young person has no clear plan or budget.

Suggested structure

Introduce the gap-year choice and state clearly whether its advantages outweigh its disadvantages.
Explain the main benefits, supporting each with a result for the young person.
Present drawbacks such as interrupted study and expense, explaining when these risks are most likely.
Conclude with a balanced judgement and a practical condition, such as planning goals and costs.

Useful vocabulary & examples

practical skills: Abilities that can be applied in real situations, such as communication or time management.
A part-time job can help school-leavers develop practical skills before university.
academic momentum: The habit and motivation to continue studying regularly.
Returning to university may be harder if a student loses academic momentum during a gap year.
broaden their perspective: Help someone understand a wider range of experiences, ideas or ways of life.
Travel can broaden young people’s perspective by introducing them to different cultures.
a realistic budget: A spending plan based on the money a person is likely to have and their expected costs.
A realistic budget can prevent travel costs from becoming a major problem.

Sample answers

AI-completed learning example

350 words · Illustrative target band

In certain nations, it is common practice for young individuals to engage in work or travel for a period of time after completing high school and prior to commencing their university studies. This essay will examine the advantages and disadvantages associated with this decision. Taking a gap year before pursuing tertiary education can be perceived as an opportunity to gain experience and independence, although it can…

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AI-completed learning example

346 words · Illustrative target band

The ongoing global dialogue regarding the encouragement of young high school graduates to engage in work or travel experiences before commencing university studies has garnered widespread support. However, there are individuals who believe that a seamless transition from high school to university is essential. From my perspective, I concur with the notion of young adults taking a planned year for experience, while re…

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AI-completed learning example

353 words · Illustrative target band

It is a common practice in many countries to encourage students to take a gap year for either work or travel after completing high school, before commencing their university studies. This phenomenon has various advantages and disadvantages which will be examined in detail. Undoubtedly, taking a gap year offers numerous benefits for young individuals. Firstly, working can introduce students to responsibilities and hel…

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