Task 2 · · 18 samples

Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best route to a successful career, while others believe that it is better to get a job straight after school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

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Plan your answer

Try your own response before reading the samples.

Ideas to explore

  • Working after school can bring early income, practical skills and experience of workplace expectations.
  • University or college may be necessary for regulated or specialist professions and can develop transferable skills.
  • The two routes can be combined through internships or part-time employment during study.

Suggested structure

  1. Introduce both views and state your opinion clearly.
  2. Explain the benefits of entering work after school, with a relevant example.
  3. Present the benefits of higher education, including qualifications and transferable skills.
  4. Compare the routes in your opinion paragraph and conclude with a clear preference.
Useful vocabulary & examples
practical experience
Skills and knowledge gained by doing work rather than only studying it.

Starting a job after school can provide practical experience and workplace skills.

structured training
An organised programme that teaches employees the skills required for a role.

Structured training can make immediate employment a suitable route into some trades.

specialised knowledge
Detailed understanding of a particular subject or profession.

A university course can provide the specialised knowledge needed for some careers.

transferable skills
Abilities, such as communication, that are useful across different jobs.

Higher education can help students develop transferable skills such as problem-solving.

Sample answers

AI-completed learning example

280 words · Illustrative target band

While some people argue that individuals should find a job right after graduating from school, others believe that further education is necessary for a successful career. I do support the latter for several reasons. On the one hand, some people say that starting work straight after high school is the best route for a successful career. Young people can earn money earlier and become independent rather than spending se…

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AI-completed learning example

358 words · Illustrative target band

While some people argue that individuals should find a job directly after finishing school, others believe that they must continue further education. I do support the latter for several reasons. On the one hand, a group of people say that starting to work straight after graduating from school can be beneficial for youngsters’ careers. The income and practical experience are immediate advantages. However, I favour fur…

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AI-completed learning example

357 words · Illustrative target band

In the contemporary era, the surge in the number of people having further education has catalyzed a scorching debate regarding whethercarrying on study or having a job is the best way to succeed. Despite compelling arguments, my personal inclination aligns with the first perspective. Admittedly, despite the predominant belief, the possibilities of success through immediate employment deserve attention. Direct work ca…

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