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It is becoming increasingly popular to have a year off between finishing school and going university. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?

#year #school #university #trend
In recent years, taking a
gap
year
 between finishing school and starting
university
 has become increasingly popular among
students
.
This
 trend offers several advantages, including opportunities for personal growth, but it
also
 presents potential drawbacks,
such
 as the risk of academic stagnation. One major advantage of a
gap
year
 is the opportunity for self-discovery and skill development. Many
students
 use
this
 time to travel, work, or engage in volunteer activities, allowing them to gain valuable life experiences. These activities not only foster independence and adaptability but
also
 enhance a student’s practical skills, which can be beneficial for both academic and career prospects.
Furthermore
, a
gap
year
 provides the space for
students
 to reflect on their future academic and career goals, often leading to more informed decisions when they eventually enter
university
.
However
, there are significant disadvantages to consider. A key drawback is the potential for losing academic momentum. After a prolonged break, some
students
 may find it challenging to return to the structured environment of the
university
, resulting in difficulties in concentrating and maintaining academic discipline.
Additionally
,
while
 a
gap
year
 can offer valuable experiences, it may
also
 be financially burdensome. Travel and leisure activities can be expensive, and
students
 who do not work during their
gap
year
 might face financial strain when they eventually begin their higher education. In conclusion,
while
 taking a
year
 off between school and
university
 offers
students
 the chance for personal development and reflection, it
also
 comes with risks,
such
 as academic disruption and financial pressures. Whether to take a
gap
year
 depends on the individual's circumstances and their ability to manage these challenges effectively.
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coherence cohesion
While your essay is well-structured, make sure each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next. This helps maintain reader engagement. For example, you can use linking words like 'Additionally,' 'Moreover,' or 'On the other hand.'
task achievement
Include a few more specific examples or statistics to further support your points. This will demonstrate a deeper level of analysis and understanding of the topic.
coherence cohesion
Your essay has a clear introduction and conclusion, which frame your arguments effectively.
task achievement
You comprehensively covered both the advantages and disadvantages of taking a gap year, demonstrating a balanced viewpoint.

Fully explain your ideas

To get an excellent score in the IELTS Task 2 writing section, one of the easiest and most effective tips is structuring your writing in the most solid format. A great argument essay structure may be divided to four paragraphs, in which comprises of four sentences (excluding the conclusion paragraph, which comprises of three sentences).

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:
  • personal growth
  • cultural exchange
  • employability
  • academic pressures
  • burnout
  • resume building
  • global awareness
  • academic skills deterioration
  • financial implications
  • structured educational environment
  • peer separation
  • readjusting
  • rigor
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