In response to the evolving demands of the modern workplace, many countries have shifted the focus of university education toward skills training and practical application, while the influence of foundational theory and the humanities has gradually waned. However, some scholars warn that this pragmatic orientation may undermine students' critical thinking and long-term innovative capacity. In your view, should universities prioritize serving the immediate job market, or should they uphold a mission of knowledge transmission that transcends economic utility? Please draw on specific national or institutional examples to articulate your position and justify your reasoning.
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