82. It is becoming increasingly popular to have a year off between finishing school and going to university.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

Sample Answer 1

Band 8.5

A growing number of students decide to have a year off after finishing their high school studies and before starting their university education. This essay will examine the positive and negative aspects of this phenomenon.

One of the main benefits of having a year off is that it allows students to gain some work experience and earn some money. They can apply for jobs or internships related to their field of interest, or explore different career options. This can help them develop their practical skills, knowledge, and confidence, as well as build their network and connections. For example, a student who wants to study engineering can work as an assistant in an engineering firm and learn from the experts. This can prepare them for their university course and future career.

However, having a year off also has some drawbacks. Firstly, it can be distracting and misleading. Students may get too comfortable or satisfied with their work and income, and lose their interest or ambition in pursuing higher education. Secondly, it can be disadvantageous in terms of academic performance and competitiveness. They may forget some of the concepts and theories they learned in school, or find it difficult to keep up with the latest developments and trends in their field. For instance, a student who works as a journalist for a year may miss out on some of the new research and techniques in journalism.

In conclusion, having a year off between finishing school and going to university has both positive and negative aspects. It can be a useful and productive way to spend a year, but it can also be a hindrance and a setback. Therefore, students should think carefully before choosing this option.

Difficult Words/Phrases with Example Sentences:

Phenomenon: (noun) - An observable fact or event.

Example: The increasing popularity of gap years highlights the need to understand its potential benefits and drawbacks.

Examine: (verb) - To study something carefully and in detail.

Example: This essay meticulously examines the positive and negative aspects of taking a gap year before university.

Internship: (noun) - A period of work experience offered to a student.

Example: Internships during a gap year can grant valuable hands-on experience and insights into desired career fields.

Distracting: (adjective) - Taking someone's attention away from something.

Example: The financial stability gained during a gap year might unintentionally distract students from academic pursuits.

Competitive: (adjective) - Eager or determined to succeed in relation to others.

Example: A gap year might disadvantage students in terms of academic competitiveness if they lose touch with recent educational advancements.

Hindrance: (noun) - Something that obstructs or slows down progress.

Example: Forgetting key concepts learned in school can become a hindrance to success in university courses upon returning.

82. It is becoming increasingly popular to have a year off between finishing school and going to university.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

Sample Answer 2

Band 8.5

Nowadays, many students choose to take a gap year after completing their secondary education and before enrolling in a university. This essay will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of this trend.

One of the main advantages of taking a year off is that it gives students an opportunity to explore their interests and passions. They can travel to different countries, learn new languages and cultures, volunteer for social causes, or pursue their hobbies. This can enrich their personal and professional development, as well as broaden their horizons and perspectives. For example, a student who loves photography can spend a year travelling around the world and capturing the beauty of nature and people. This can enhance their creativity, skills, and portfolio, which can help them in their future studies or career.

However, taking a year off also has some disadvantages. Firstly, it can be expensive and time-consuming. Students may need to save money or work part-time to fund their gap year activities, which can be stressful and exhausting. Secondly, it can be challenging to resume their academic studies after a long break. They may lose their motivation, focus, and discipline, or find it hard to adjust to the academic environment and expectations. For instance, a student who spends a year relaxing and having fun may struggle to cope with the workload and deadlines of a university course.

In conclusion, taking a year off between finishing school and going to university has both advantages and disadvantages. It can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it can also be costly and risky. Therefore, students should carefully weigh the pros and cons before making their decision.

Difficult Words/Phrases with Example Sentences:

Trend: (noun) - A general direction in which something is developing.

Example: The increasing trend of gap years highlights the need to discuss their potential benefits and drawbacks.

Secondary education: (noun) - Formal education following primary school and leading to higher education.

Example: Taking a gap year after secondary education allows students time for exploration before settling into university life.

Enrich: (verb) - To make something more interesting, valuable, or fulfilling.

Example: Traveling and interacting with different cultures can enrich students' personal and professional development.

Horizon: (noun) - The limit of what is known or can be known.

Example: Gap year experiences can broaden students' horizons by exposing them to diverse viewpoints and ways of life.

Portfolio: (noun) - A collection of work samples used to showcase skills and experience.

Example: A photography gap year might result in a portfolio that impresses future employers or universities.

Word: Stressful: (adjective) - Causing worry or anxiety.

Exhausting: (adjective) - Very tiring or draining.

Example: Balancing financial concerns with gap year activities can be both stressful and exhausting.

Motivation: (noun) - The desire or willingness to do something.

Focus: (noun) - The ability to concentrate on something.

Discipline: (noun) - The ability to control oneself and obey rules.

Example: Taking a gap year can affect students' motivation, focus, and discipline upon returning to academic studies.