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

358 words · Illustrative target band

In contemporary society, the optimal pathway to professional success remains a subject of intense debate, with tertiary education and immediate employment representing divergent approaches with distinct advantages. While university qualifications provide specialized knowledge and credentials that expand career opportunities, direct workforce entry offers practical experience and financial benefits without educational…

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AI-completed learning example

280 words · Illustrative target band

The debate regarding the optimal path to a successful career has elicited varying opinions among individuals. Some contend that pursuing higher education at a university or college is the most advantageous route, while others advocate for entering the workforce immediately after completing high school. While there are numerous merits associated with obtaining employment right after high school, I believe that higher …

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AI-completed learning example

361 words · Illustrative target band

The debate over whether to pursue higher education or enter the workforce immediately after high school is a longstanding one, with valid arguments on both sides. Proponents of university or college education argue that higher education provides a solid foundation of knowledge and skills that are essential for many professional careers. Degrees often open doors to specialist roles. However, early employment can also …

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