QUESTIONS: In some countries young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting university studies. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decided to do this.

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Taking a
gap
year
between finishing high school and starting university is an increasingly popular choice among young
people
in many countries.
This
period, often spent working or
traveling
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travelling
show examples
, can offer numerous advantages
as well as
some disadvantages. The first
advantages
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advantage
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of taking a
gap
year
is the opportunity for personal growth and development.
Traveling
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Travelling
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allows young
people
to experience new cultures, meet diverse groups of
people
, and gain a broader perspective of the world.
This
can enhance their cultural awareness and adaptability, making them more well-rounded individuals.
Similarly
, working during
this
period can provide valuable life skills
such
as time management, financial independence, and professional experience. These skills can be highly beneficial when transitioning to university life and future careers. The second is that the
gap
year
can help young
people
gain clarity about their academic and career goals. After spending time in the workforce or exploring different interests, they may have a better understanding of what they want to study and what career path to pursue.
This
can lead to more focused and motivated university students who are committed to their chosen field of study.
However
, there are
also
potential disadvantages to consider. One significant drawback is the risk of losing academic momentum. Taking a
year
off from formal education can make it challenging for some students to get back into the rigorous academic routine. They might find it difficult to readjust to the demands of studying, which could impact their academic performance. Financial concerns are another disadvantage.
Traveling
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Travelling
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or taking a break from education can be costly, and not all young
people
can afford
this
luxury.
Additionally
, those who choose to work during their
gap
year
might earn money but could
also
miss out on valuable opportunities to start their higher education earlier and potentially enter the job market sooner than their peers who did not take a
gap
year
. In conclusion,
while
taking a
gap
year
offers significant benefits
such
as personal growth, skill development, and career clarity, it
also
presents challenges like academic readjustment and financial costs. Young
people
considering
this
option should weigh these factors carefully and plan their
gap
year
in a way that maximizes the advantages
while
mitigating the disadvantages.
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task achievement
You provide a balanced discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of taking a gap year, but the essay could benefit from more specific examples to support your points. For instance, including real-life stories or statistics could make your arguments more compelling.
coherence cohesion
Your essay has a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. However, the logical flow between the ideas can be improved. Using transitional phrases can help connect your points more smoothly and guide the reader through your arguments.
task achievement
While your points are generally clear, ensuring each point is thoroughly developed can enhance the clarity of your essay. Make sure each paragraph fully explores a single idea before moving on to the next.
coherence cohesion
Recheck your use of vocabulary and grammar. While there are no glaring errors, varying your sentence structures and using more sophisticated vocabulary can make your essay more engaging.
coherence cohesion
Your introduction effectively sets the stage for the discussion and clearly outlines the main points you will cover.
task achievement
You present a well-rounded view by discussing both advantages and disadvantages, which shows a balanced perspective.
coherence cohesion
Your conclusion effectively summarizes the key points of your essay and provides a thoughtful closing statement.

Fully explain your ideas

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For we to consider an essay structure a great one, it should be looking like this:

  • Paragraph 1 - Introduction
    • Sentence 1 - Background statement
    • Sentence 2 - Detailed background statement
    • Sentence 3 - Thesis
    • Sentence 4 - Outline sentence
  • Paragraph 2 - First supporting paragraph
    • Sentence 1 - Topic sentence
    • Sentence 2 - Example
    • Sentence 3 - Discussion
    • Sentence 4 - Conclusion
  • Paragraph 3 - Second supporting paragraph
    • Sentence 1 - Topic sentence
    • Sentence 2 - Example
    • Sentence 3 - Discussion
    • Sentence 4 - Conclusion
  • Paragraph 4 - Conclusion
    • Sentence 1 - Summary
    • Sentence 2 - Restatement of thesis
    • Sentence 3 - Prediction or recommendation

Our recommended essay structure above comprises of fifteen (15) sentences, which will make your essay approximately 250 to 275 words.

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Topic Vocabulary:
  • gap year
  • real-world experiences
  • personal and professional growth
  • self-awareness
  • confidence
  • sense of direction
  • career paths
  • academic goals
  • loss of academic momentum
  • financially burdensome
  • travel and living expenses
  • delaying the start of a professional career
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