As the value of higher education faces growing scrutiny today, critics argue that universities are devolving into expensive vocational training centers, while supporters insist that institutions of higher learning should first and foremost cultivate critical thinking that transcends the job market. Should the fundamental mission of a university be to prepare students for their careers, or to shape well-rounded individuals capable of independent thought? Please articulate your position, supporting it with specific reasons and examples.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors
Task Response: Address all parts of the task, present a clear position, support ideas with evidence
Coherence and Cohesion: Logical paragraphing, clear progression, appropriate linking devices
Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary, accurate and natural collocations
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Variety of sentence structures, error-free grammar
Overall band score is 0-9, each criterion weighted equally.
Answering Tips
Spend 5 minutes planning your position and main arguments
Use the structure: Introduction - Body 1 - Body 2 - Concession - Conclusion
Develop each body paragraph with: topic sentence + explanation + example + summary
Use a variety of linking words, avoid repetition
Reserve 5 minutes at the end to check grammar and spelling