29. Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes (for example working for a charity, improving the neighbourhood or teaching sports to younger children).

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Sample Answer 1

Band 8.5

In addition to traditional academic learning, the incorporation of essential life skills is crucial for a well-rounded education. The proposition that unpaid community service should be a mandatory component of the high school curriculum is a commendable one. I firmly believe that educators and parents can effectively instill positive values in children by encouraging their active participation in such activities.

Firstly, requiring students to engage in unpaid community service, such as volunteering or contributing to community improvement projects, offers invaluable lessons in socialization, openness, and kindness. This hands-on experience not only enhances their social skills but also provides a unique opportunity to hone their communication abilities. Extracurricular involvement, including community service, serves as a platform for students to forge new friendships, acquire diverse skills, and lead a more active lifestyle compared to their counterparts who abstain from such activities.

Moreover, the engagement in non-paid community service contributes to the students' professional development. The skills acquired during these experiences become noteworthy credentials, showcasing their dynamism and adaptability. Many employers prefer candidates with a demonstrated commitment to community service, viewing it as a testament to their character and ability to contribute positively to the workplace.

Furthermore, participation in unpaid community service enables students to cultivate a spectrum of skills, ranging from teamwork to leadership. Collaborating with peers in such endeavors fosters a sense of composure and calmness in students, instilling positive traits that extend beyond the immediate context.

In conclusion, the incorporation of unpaid community service in the high school curriculum offers students a multifaceted opportunity for skill development. Beyond the acquisition of practical skills, it also equips them with certifications that can significantly contribute to their prospects for a brighter future.

Difficult Words/Phrases with Example Sentences:

Commendable (adjective): Deserving praise or approval. 

Example: Mandatory community service is a commendable proposal.

Instill (verb): To gradually teach someone something, especially values or attitudes. 

Example: Community service can help instill positive values in children.

Socialization (noun): The process of learning to behave in a way that is acceptable to your society. Example: Community service promotes social socialization and communication skills.

Hands-on (adjective): Involving practical experience rather than theory. 

Example: Community service offers hands-on learning opportunities.

Dynamicism (noun): Energy and enthusiasm. 

Example: Community service showcases a student's dynamism and adaptability.

Credentials (noun): Pieces of written evidence that show someone's qualifications or achievements. Example: Community service provides valuable credentials for future career opportunities.

Spectrum (noun): A wide range of something. 

Example: Community service helps develop a broad spectrum of skills.

Teamwork (noun): The ability to work effectively with other people in a team. 

Example: Community service fosters collaboration and teamwork skills.

Composure (noun): The ability to stay calm and in control of your emotions. 

Example: Community service instills composure and positive traits in students.

Multifaceted (adjective): Having many different aspects or features. 

Example: Community service offers a multifaceted opportunity for skill development.

Prospects (noun): The likelihood of something happening in the future. 

Example: Community service enhances a student's prospects for a better future.

29. Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes (for example working for a charity, improving the neighbourhood or teaching sports to younger children).

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Sample Answer 2

Band 8.5

                   There is debate as to whether unpaid community service should be a required component of high school programmes. This essay will examine both perspectives and offer my own opinion on the subject.
Supporters of mandatory community service assert that it encourages civic engagement, social responsibility, and personal growth. They believe that community service exposes students to real-world issues, fosters empathy, and promotes a sense of belonging and active participation in society. In addition, community service affords students the chance to acquire important life skills such as collaboration, leadership, and problem-solving.

             Opponents, however, argue that community service should be voluntary and based on individual choice as opposed to a mandatory requirement. They argue that requiring students to perform community service could result in a dearth of genuine commitment and undermine the spirit of volunteering. They argue that students should be allowed to pursue activities that are in line with their own interests and passions, since this would result in more meaningful and significant contributions to the community.
                        Offering both required and voluntary community service options in high school programmes, in my opinion, can strike a balance. Community service requirements can provide all students with a foundational understanding of the significance of civic engagement and community involvement. Nonetheless, it is essential to ensure that the service activities are diverse, inclusive, and meaningful and that students have the opportunity to select projects that correspond to their interests and abilities. In addition, high schools should provide support structures, such as guidance counsellors and opportunities for reflection, to help students comprehend the significance of their service and foster personal development and learning.
                      In conclusion, while both mandatory and voluntary community service in high schools have their merits, a balanced approach that combines mandatory participation with personal choice can cultivate civic responsibility and personal development among students.

Difficult Words/Phrases with Example Sentences:

Debate (noun): A discussion in which people express different opinions.

Example: There is a debate about mandatory community service.

Assert (verb): To state something confidently or forcefully.

Example: Supporters assert it encourages civic engagement.

Empathy (noun): The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person.

Example: Community service fosters empathy for real-world issues.

Belonging (noun): A feeling of being part of a group or community.

Example: Service promotes a sense of belonging in society.

Acquisition (noun): The act of getting something.

Example: Service offers the acquisition of life skills.

Collaboration (noun): Working together to achieve a shared goal.

Example: Service fosters collaboration and leadership skills.

Opponents (noun): People who disagree with an idea.

Example: Opponents argue it should be voluntary.

Dearth (noun): A lack or scarcity of something.

Example: Mandatory service could result in a dearth of genuine commitment.

Undermine (verb): To weaken or damage something.

Example: It could undermine the spirit of volunteering.

Passions (noun): Strong beliefs or desires.

Example: Students should be allowed to pursue their passions.

Strike a balance (verb): To find a compromise between two different things.

Example: Offering both options can strike a balance.

Foundational (adjective): Basic or essential.

Example: Requirements provide a foundational understanding.

Diverse (adjective): Varied or different.

Example: Service activities should be diverse and inclusive.

Correspond (verb): To match or be relevant to something.

Example: Students should select projects that correspond to their interests.

Guidance counsellors: Professionals who help students make decisions about their education and career.

Reflection (noun): The act of thinking carefully about something.

Example: Opportunities for reflection are essential.

Cultivate (verb): To encourage the growth or development of something.

Example: A balanced approach can cultivate civic responsibility.

29. Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes (for example working for a charity, improving the neighbourhood or teaching sports to younger children).

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Sample Answer 3

Band 8

Undoubtedly, incorporating unpaid community service as a mandatory component of high school education holds significant importance. Community service plays a pivotal role in shaping responsible and engaged individuals within society. However, the inclusion of such community work in a student's life is a matter of contention, with compelling arguments on both sides.

Certainly, engaging in non-profit activities brings about numerous advantages. Firstly, it fosters confidence among students who may otherwise find themselves immersed solely in academic pursuits. By participating in community service, students can strike a balance, gaining a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction beyond the confines of their studies. Secondly, involvement in such activities offers a platform for students to contribute meaningfully to society, fostering a sense of responsibility and social awareness. Research indicates that students engaged in extracurricular activities tend to exhibit higher intelligence levels compared to their counterparts.

Despite these advantages, the integration of unpaid community service into high school programs is not without its drawbacks. One major concern is the impact on employment opportunities. Many students argue that allocating their time to other activities, such as community service, may affect their academic performance, leading to lower grades. Prioritizing academic subjects is considered essential for securing better employment prospects, which are crucial for the development of a responsible and civilized society.

In conclusion, the growth and progress of a nation hinge significantly on its youth. The inclusion of community service in high school programs plays a vital role in shaping responsible individuals, providing them with valuable experiences and contributing to the overall development of society.

29. Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes (for example working for a charity, improving the neighbourhood or teaching sports to younger children).

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Sample Answer 4

Band 8

Engaging high school students in community service activities is undeniably crucial, and there is no room for doubt about its significance. I firmly believe that making participation in community service activities a requirement for high school students is essential.

Participating in community service brings forth evident benefits in various ways. One of the most notable advantages is the enhancement of communication skills among students through their involvement in social organizations. Furthermore, contributing to worthy causes or community improvement projects instills a positive attitude in students, shaping their outlook towards others. Acting as role models for younger children in areas like sports or academics, high school students can play a significant role in inspiring and guiding them for their future endeavors.

While it's true that some students may find it challenging to balance academics and extracurricular activities, it's essential to note that this isn't a universal struggle. Test scores indicate that many students successfully manage both aspects of their lives. These students actively contribute to nonprofit organizations, making a tangible impact on their communities. For instance, organizing after-school sports events for senior adults and children demonstrates a commitment to preserving and enhancing physical health.

It is imperative to encourage children to participate in extracurricular activities that foster the development of their communication skills from an early age. However, mandating these activities as a part of academic requirements may not be the optimal solution. Instead, providing young individuals with the flexibility to engage in community service opportunities after school allows them to contribute meaningfully and lend a hand where they can. This approach empowers students to make a positive impact on their communities voluntarily.