User-written IELTS example
Writing Academic Task 2 Band 6.0 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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Universities are widely considered as the cornerstone of higher education, as students attend an array of classes to complete their degree and become proficient in their qualifications. To attain this objective, it is not unprecedented that some students require taking additional courses, deviating for their main subjects. This situation leads to a sparking debate about whether learning outside one's degree is valuable or whether undergraduates should focus exclusively on their qualification. Those who favour studying a range of subjects argue that it gives students a broader education. A student who takes classes beyond their main field may develop useful skills and see how different areas of knowledge connect. For example, studying communication or business alongside a science degree could help a graduate explain technical ideas or understand how organisations work. Exploring other subjects may also make university more interesting and help students discover new interests.
On the other hand, concentrating on a qualification has clear advantages. Degree programmes often contain demanding requirements, and students need enough time to understand their core material, complete assignments and prepare for examinations. Taking too many unrelated courses may create pressure and distract them from the knowledge and skills needed in their chosen profession. This is particularly important in fields where a strong foundation in specialist subjects is essential.
In my view, students should give priority to their main subjects, but they should not necessarily devote all their time to them. A limited number of additional classes can broaden their perspective and develop transferable skills, provided these courses do not interfere with their progress towards graduation. Universities could support this balance by allowing students to choose a small number of electives while keeping the main degree requirements central. Overall, breadth is beneficial when it complements, rather than replaces, focused study.
Targeted Improvement Tips
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