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 recent years, taking a
gap
year
after high school has become a widespread trend among young people. For many
students
preparing to enter university, spending a
year
traveling
Change the spelling
travelling
show examples
or working offers significant advantages. After years of academic pressure in high school,
students
deserve a break to relieve stress and recharge before tackling the challenges of higher education.
Moreover
, gaining work experience or
traveling
Change the spelling
travelling
show examples
can help them develop valuable life skills, broaden their perspectives, and inspire creativity, which are all essential aspects of personal growth.
For instance
, some
students
may be uncertain about their future career paths. By participating in internships during their
gap
year
, they can gain clearer insights into their interests and professional goals, leading to more focused and meaningful academic pursuits at university.
However
, taking a
gap
year
could pose potential threats, particularly for
students
who are in financial adversities. These
students
must cautiously weigh the costs of time and opportunities during a
gap
year
against the benefits of pursuing higher education promptly to enhance their competitiveness in the
larbour
Correct your spelling
labour
market.
Additionally
,
students
whose majors are in STEM fields may be especially affected by taking a
gap
year
.
Due to
the features of STEM subjects, which require coherent and cumulative learning,
however
, suspending their education could make it harder to catch up once they begin university studies. In conclusion,
while
taking a
gap
year
can be beneficial for
students
' personal development and mental well-being, it
also
involves the cost of time and opportunities, potentially delaying their academic progress.
Submitted by Timothy on

Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Writing9 with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

task achievement
Consider elaborating more on diverse viewpoints within the disadvantages to enrich the argument.
coherence cohesion
Ensure each paragraph transitions more smoothly from one to the next to enhance cohesion.
task achievement
The essay clearly outlines both advantages and disadvantages of taking a gap year, maintaining relevance throughout its discussion.
coherence cohesion
The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and offers closure to the discussion.
coherence cohesion
Supporting examples, such as those involving internships and STEM studies, reinforce the main ideas effectively.

Your opinion

Don’t put your opinion unless you are asked to give it.

If the question asks what you think, you MUST give your opinion to get a good score.

Don’t leave your opinion until the conclusion.

Here are examples of instructions that require you to give your opinion:

...do you agree or disagree?...do you think...?...your opinion...?

Discover more tips in The Ultimate Guide to Get a Target Band Score of 7+ »— a book that's free for 🚀 Premium users.

Ultimate Speaking practice for IELTS

Practice speaking step by step, answer real-life questions, and build your confidence. Start your free trial and improve your speaking skills today!
Topic Vocabulary:
  • Cultural immersion
  • Life experience
  • Work ethic
  • Career readiness
  • Self-discovery
  • Delayed gratification
  • Intellectual stagnation
  • Financial implications
  • Social dynamics
  • Academic trajectory
What to do next:
Look at other essays:

Essentional vocabulary list for IELTS Writing 7+

Learn how to write high-scoring essays with powerful words.
Download Free PDF and start improving you writing skills today!