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 decide to do this.

In today's society, taking a
gap
year
to work or travel before starting university is increasingly common among young
people
.
While
this
period can offer numerous advantages, it
also
presents certain drawbacks.
This
essay will discuss both sides of the argument in detail and argue that the benefits of taking a
gap
year
often outweigh the disadvantages. First and foremost, gaining work
experience
or
traveling
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travelling
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before commencing university studies can significantly broaden a young person's horizons. Engaging in employment or exploring different cultures can equip them with practical skills, foster independence, and enhance their cultural awareness.
For instance
, working in a professional environment can provide invaluable insights into the real-world applications of their future studies,
thus
making their subsequent academic pursuits more meaningful and focused.
Similarly
,
traveling
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travelling
show examples
exposes individuals to diverse perspectives and ways of life, which can cultivate a more rounded and adaptable mindset.
Moreover
, a
gap
year
can
instill
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instil
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a sense of financial responsibility. Earning and managing money through part-time jobs or internships allows young
people
to contribute towards their future education expenses, thereby reducing the financial burden on their families.
This
early exposure to financial planning and budgeting is a crucial life skill that will serve them well in their adult lives.
Additionally
, the
experience
of saving for and funding their own travels can teach valuable lessons in self-discipline and prioritization.
However
, there are potential downsides to taking a
gap
year
that must be considered. One significant disadvantage is the risk of losing academic momentum. The transition from the structured environment of high school to the relatively unstructured nature of a
gap
year
can make it challenging for some students to return to the
rigors
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rigours
show examples
of academic study.
This
loss of continuity can affect their performance when they eventually begin their university education.
Additionally
, not all
gap
year
experiences are equally enriching. Without careful planning, some young
people
might end up in low-skilled jobs that do not contribute to their personal or professional growth,
thus
wasting valuable time.
Furthermore
,
traveling
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travelling
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can be prohibitively expensive and may lead to financial strain rather than savings.
While
the
experience
can be enriching, the costs associated with extended travel,
such
as accommodation, transportation, and daily expenses, can quickly accumulate.
This
financial burden might negate the benefits of the
experience
and leave the individual with more financial stress than they
initially
had. In conclusion,
while
taking a
gap
year
can present some challenges,
such
as potential loss of academic focus and financial strain, the advantages often outweigh the disadvantages. The opportunity to gain practical skills, develop financial responsibility, and
experience
different cultures can provide young
people
with a solid foundation for their future academic and professional
endeavors
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endeavours
show examples
.
Therefore
, it is crucial for young
people
to carefully plan their
gap
year
to maximize its benefits.
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task achievement
To achieve a higher score, consider adding more specific examples and evidence to support your points. This will strengthen your arguments and make them more convincing.
coherence cohesion
While your essay is well-organized, paying attention to the smooth transition between paragraphs could enhance the readability even further. Consider using more varied linking phrases and words.
task achievement
Your essay provides a complete response to the task, addressing both the advantages and disadvantages of taking a gap year.
coherence cohesion
The introduction and conclusion are clear and effectively frame the essay, providing a strong sense of closure to your arguments.
coherence cohesion
Your essay is logically structured, with each paragraph focusing on a specific point, which makes it easy to follow your arguments.

Support ideas with relevant, specific examples

Examples make your writing easier to understand by illustrating points more effectively.

Examples, if used properly, not only help you get higher marks for ‘Task Response’ but also for ‘Coherence’.

When giving examples it is best to put them after your main idea or topic sentence. They can be used in the middle of supporting sentences or they can be used to start a new sentence. There is no rule for where exactly to give examples in essays, logically they would come after your main idea/topic sentence or just after a supporting sentence.

Linking words for giving examples:

  • for example
  • for instance
  • to illustrate this
  • to give a clear example
  • such as
  • namely
  • to illustrate
  • take, for example

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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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