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

361 words · Illustrative target band

In recent years, the acquisition of high school education has been the topic of heated debate. Some people claim that furthering education at university plays a pivotal role in having a better career path, while others support an idea of immediate entry into the workforce after graduation of school. There are contrasting views on both approaches. I favour university where the subject fits a clear career goal, while r…

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AI-completed learning example

258 words · Illustrative target band

In recent years, the acquisition of high school education has been the topic of heated debate. Some people claim that furthering education at university plays a pivotal role in having a better career path, while others support the tidea of immediate entry into the workforce after graduating school. There are contrasting views on both sides, and each has valid arguments. A university degree gives students structured a…

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AI-completed learning example

354 words · Illustrative target band

When they finish school, teenagers face the dilemma of whether to get a job or continue their education. While there are some benefits to getting a job straight after school, I would argue that it is better to go to college or university. The option to start work straight after school is attractive for several reasons, including income and practical experience. Nevertheless, I favour university where it provides rele…

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