In some countries, many young people choose to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting university studies. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.

In recent times, as the world evolves, teenagers are deciding to take a sabbatical
year
from
school
to either join the workforce or become tourists. For many,
this
decision is essential.
However
, others view it as unnecessary. In
this
essay, both the benefits and downsides will be discussed. There are two main reasons why people choose to take a gap
year
.
Firstly
, for those who choose to work,
this
period can serve as a chance to save up enough money for university tuition fees.
For example
, in the UK, several secondary
school
graduates suspend their
further
education for a
year
to work menial jobs
such
as becoming team members at McDonald's.
As a result
, their student loans are reduced by the time they finish their studies. From the travelling perspective, life is filled with hustle and bustle. Taking a one-
year
break from
school
is needed to improve one’s mental condition. To
further
illustrate, Chinese students are generally known to be thoroughly scrutinized throughout their
school
years. Because of
this
, the government funds international travel to unwind, making them psychologically fit for the next session.
On the other hand
, there are counterarguments against a
year
off from schooling. One of the most significant downsides is the perception that it promotes laziness. Some parents believe their children being idle reduces their intelligence quotient.
Moreover
, some believe that their children’s education should be hastened.
For instance
, in Nigeria, it is common to see people graduate at the age of fourteen and immediately pursue tertiary education.
This
belief is driven by the notion that graduating earlier makes their children more important.
To conclude
, advocating for a
year
off after high
school
can be a controversial topic.
While
it can serve as a way to be financially secure and mentally stable, it can
also
be perceived as a means to reduce one’s intellect and a waste of time.
Submitted by adebimpeanimawun on

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task achievement
Provide more depth in analysis by explaining the benefits and drawbacks in a more balanced manner. Discussing both perspectives equally can showcase a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
coherence cohesion
Improve logical structure by ensuring smooth transitions between paragraphs and within them. This will help maintain a steady flow of ideas and make arguments easier to follow.
task achievement
The essay addresses both the advantages and disadvantages, providing relevant examples for each point.
task achievement
Clear and comprehensive ideas are presented in a coherent manner.
coherence cohesion
The introduction and conclusion are well-defined, effectively framing the discussion.
coherence cohesion
Main points are well-supported with relevant examples, enhancing the strength of the arguments.

Answer the 'Advantages and Disadvantages' topic

IELTS advantages and disadvantages questions normally give you a statement and ask you to comment on the advantages and disadvantages of that statement.

Answer structure for the type of essay

  • Introduction
  • Body paragraph 1 – advantages
  • Body paragraph 2 – disadvantages
  • Conclusion

Examples to start your body paragraph:

  • The main advantage is...
  • The disadvantage of this...
  • The main benefit...
  • Despite these advantages...
  • One possible drawback...

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Topic Vocabulary:
  • Cultural immersion
  • Life experience
  • Work ethic
  • Career readiness
  • Self-discovery
  • Delayed gratification
  • Intellectual stagnation
  • Financial implications
  • Social dynamics
  • Academic trajectory
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