IELTS Band 9 Essay About it is neither possible nor useful for a country to provide university places
Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “it is neither possible nor useful for a country to provide university places for most young people”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 100 band 9 IELTS sample released in 2024.
Short Explanation about It is neither possible nor useful IELTS band 9 essay
The debate about whether providing university places for a significant proportion of young people is possible or beneficial is complex. While expanding access to higher education fosters inclusivity and skill development, it strains financial resources and infrastructure. Moreover, overemphasizing university education may undervalue vocational training, which is crucial for various industries. Countries should balance investments in diverse educational pathways to cater to varying talents and societal needs. This approach prevents the oversaturation of degree holders in job markets and addresses economic disparities, fostering a more sustainable system that benefits both individuals and society as a whole.
Essay Topic and Band 9 Sample Answer
It is neither possible nor useful for a country to provide university places for a high proportion of young people.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Providing widespread access to university education is a contentious issue. While some argue that ensuring a high proportion of young people attend university enhances societal development, I believe that this approach is both impractical and counterproductive.
From a pragmatic perspective, it is neither financially nor logistically feasible for a country to provide university places for the majority of its youth. Universities require substantial investment in infrastructure, faculty, and research facilities. For developing nations, diverting limited resources toward universal higher education might lead to neglect in other essential areas like healthcare and primary education. Even in affluent countries, such large-scale investment in universities could strain public funds, creating a burdensome fiscal environment.
Moreover, promoting university education for all can lead to undesirable economic consequences. Labor markets already face challenges from the oversupply of graduates in certain fields, leading to underemployment and declining job satisfaction. A balanced workforce requires individuals with diverse qualifications, including vocational and technical skills. For instance, skilled trades such as plumbing and electrical work remain in high demand but are often overlooked in favor of white-collar professions. Overemphasizing university education perpetuates a culture that undervalues these vital roles.
Additionally, the quality of education risks being compromised if universities are overcrowded. An overwhelming student population strains faculty, facilities, and resources, diluting the learning experience and diminishing the value of a university degree. A selective approach to university admissions ensures that students who are academically inclined or professionally suited to higher education can benefit fully from it.
To foster economic growth and societal well-being, governments should focus on creating diverse educational pathways. Investment in vocational training, apprenticeships, and skill-development programs can address labor market needs while providing young people with viable career options. Countries like Germany, for example, have successfully implemented dual education systems that integrate academic and practical training, resulting in lower youth unemployment rates.
In conclusion, striving to provide university places for a majority of young people is neither feasible nor beneficial. A diversified approach to education, which balances university opportunities with vocational training and other alternatives, is more sustainable and equitable, ultimately benefiting individuals and society as a whole.
Total = 352 Words
Five Academic Words with Pronunciation and Sentences for the sample it is neither possible
- Widespread (/ˈwaɪdˌsprɛd/)
Sentence: The widespread use of renewable energy is critical for combating climate change. - Impractical (/ɪmˈpræk.tɪ.kəl/)
Sentence: Building a high-speed rail network across remote areas is considered impractical due to the cost. - Neglect (/nɪˈɡlɛkt/)
Sentence: The government’s neglect of rural infrastructure has led to significant economic disparities. - Oversupply (/ˌoʊ.vər.səˈplaɪ/)
Sentence: The oversupply of graduates in humanities has contributed to underemployment in many regions. - Undesirable (/ˌʌn.dɪˈzaɪr.ə.bəl/)
Sentence: Air pollution is one of the most undesirable effects of industrialization.
Five Advanced Grammar Structures in the Sample and Their Impact
- Complex Sentences with Subordinate Clauses
Example: “While some argue that ensuring a high proportion of young people attend university enhances societal development, I believe that this approach is both impractical and counterproductive.”
Impact: Demonstrates the writer’s ability to connect ideas logically and create nuanced arguments. - Use of Conditional Sentences
Example: “If universities are overcrowded, the quality of education risks being compromised.”
Impact: Adds hypothetical reasoning, showing a deep understanding of cause-and-effect relationships. - Passive Voice
Example: “Labor markets already face challenges from the oversupply of graduates in certain fields.”
Impact: Allows for formal tone and shifts focus to the issue rather than the agent. - Nominalization
Example: “Overemphasizing university education perpetuates a culture that undervalues these vital roles.”
Impact: Makes the writing more formal and academic, suitable for IELTS Task 2. - Use of Examples and Specific Evidence
Example: “Countries like Germany have successfully implemented dual education systems…”
Impact: Strengthens the argument by providing concrete, real-world evidence.
Writing Format and Key Features for Band 9
- Introduction: Clearly introduces the topic with a paraphrase of the question and presents a clear stance.
- Body Paragraphs: Structured with topic sentences, detailed arguments, and supporting examples. Each paragraph focuses on one main idea.
- Conclusion: Summarizes the argument and reiterates the stance without introducing new information.
- Cohesion and Coherence: Logical flow ensured by linking words like moreover, additionally, for instance, and in conclusion.
- Lexical Resource: High-level vocabulary like impractical, undesirable, and oversupply enhances the sophistication of the essay.
- Grammatical Range: Advanced structures, varied sentence types, and precise grammar contribute to a high band score.
This sample achieves a Band 9 by balancing clear argumentation, academic vocabulary, and advanced grammar within a well-organized structure.
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