TASK 2:
ESSAY INFORMATION:
Written by: IELTS I-Ready, 22/12/2024
Marked by: Ex-BC Examiner
(IELTS Academic – 21/12/2024)
Question: Some people say that all people should stay in full-time education until they are at least 18 years old. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
ANSWER:
Many believe that formal schooling is necessary for all individuals until the age of 18. While this approach offers opportunities to develop essential skills and pave the way for professional advancement, I partially disagree with this notion, as it may not suit everyone due to differing career aspirations and personal circumstances.
Staying in full-time education until 18 offers significant advantages. Firstly, it allows students to develop essential skills, such as critical thinking and problem-solving, which are crucial for their future careers. Additionally, completing education at this stage ensures better preparedness for higher education or professional training, which often requires a certain level of knowledge and maturity. For example, subjects like mathematics and science taught in senior secondary school are foundational for professions such as engineering or medicine. Thus, full-time education until 18 provides a strong academic base and enhances employability prospects.
Despite its advantages, enforcing full-time education until 18 might not be ideal for all individuals. One major factor that affects their decisions is divergent occupational objects. Some students may not excel in academic settings and might benefit more from alternative pathways like vocational training or apprenticeships, which equip them with practical skills for specific careers. For instance, students interested in trades like plumbing or carpentry can start earning and gaining experience earlier if allowed to pursue such options. Moreover, some students face financial challenges or family responsibilities that make continuing full-time education impractical.
In conclusion, while staying in full-time education until the age of 18 offers significant advantages, such as fostering essential skills and providing a strong foundation for future careers, it may not suit everyone due to varying career ambitions and unique personal challenges. Therefore, I believe that a more flexible and inclusive approach, which accommodates different interests and needs, would be a better solution to ensure that all young people can reach their full potential. (308 words)
