User-written IELTS example
Writing Academic Task 2 Band 7.0 Example
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Illustrative target band for this original model answer.
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Ideas to explore
- Specialising can provide the depth of knowledge and practical competence required by demanding professional qualifications.
- Additional subjects can develop transferable abilities, such as communication and collaboration across professional fields.
- A balanced position is to prioritise core degree requirements while choosing a limited number of useful electives.
Suggested structure
- Introduce both views and state a clear, qualified opinion.
- Explain why students may need to prioritise their main qualification.
- Present the benefits of studying beyond the major, supported by a relevant example.
- Conclude by defining a practical balance between specialist depth and broader learning.
Useful vocabulary & examples
- develop deep expertise
- build detailed knowledge and skill in a particular subject or profession
Focusing on core courses can help students develop deep expertise in their chosen field.
- transferable skills
- abilities that are useful in different jobs or areas of study
Electives can help students develop transferable skills such as communication and analysis.
- complement a degree
- add useful knowledge or skills to a main course of study
Courses in business can complement a science degree.
- at the expense of
- in a way that reduces or harms something else
Broader study is valuable, but it should not come at the expense of essential specialist learning.
Task Prompt
User Essay Analysis
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Students attend university to improve their prospects and find suitable employment after graduation. For this reason, some feel that they should focus all their energy on their main subjects to gain a relevant qualification. Others want a more well-rounded education, so they try to learn about additional subjects. It is perfectly reasonable for students to explore other fields, since knowledge outside their degree can broaden their perspectives and help them understand how different areas of study connect. For example, a student of engineering who also studies communication may become better at explaining technical ideas to colleagues and clients. Studying another subject can also make university more engaging and help students discover interests they might pursue later.
However, the argument for concentrating on a qualification is also persuasive. University programmes often require substantial reading, assignments and preparation for examinations. If students divide their attention among too many subjects, they may struggle to meet the demands of their main course or develop the specialist knowledge their future profession requires. This is particularly important in fields such as medicine or law, where a strong foundation in the core subject is essential. In addition, students may have limited time and financial resources, so taking on extra courses could create unnecessary pressure.
In my opinion, students should give priority to their main subjects while making room for a manageable amount of learning beyond them. They do not need to treat additional study as another full qualification: an elective course, a short programme or independent reading can offer useful breadth without undermining their academic progress. The right balance will depend on a student’s workload and goals. Overall, broad learning is valuable, but it should complement rather than displace the study needed to earn a qualification.
Targeted Improvement Tips
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