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Writing Model Answers

IELTS Writing Model Answers for Task 1 and Task 2

IELTS Writing – Model Answer for an essay (from the May 2011 exam in UK)

The topic below was seen in the Academic IELTS exam in UK, May 2011.

General Training Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people believe that universities are producing more graduates than needed, and that less emphasis should be placed on university education. Others are of a different opinion. Discuss both views and include your own opinion.

You should write at least 250 words.

Model Answer

As the world develops, the opportunity to achieve a tertiary education is becoming more widespread. This has led many to question whether larger numbers of university graduates is a positive trend. However, others counter than university does more than simply provide employment opportunities. Both of these arguments will be analysed before a reasoned conclusion is reached.

On the one hand, many feel the rising number of university graduates today causes more harm than good. For example, graduates from Canadian universities are having to wait for employment simply because there are no working opportunities for them to engage in. Despite this, Canadian labour-related job openings are booming. This example shows a disparity that is common in many parts of the world and makes clear that achieving a higher education can actually be the precursor to unemployment. Thus, it is understandable why many support the argument that less emphasis should be put on garnering a university education.

However, in contrast to this stance, there are those who believe higher education provides more to people than simply job related skill sets. For instance, the analytical skills honed by university graduates in the United States give them a heightened perception and deeper understanding of the world. Although this benefit does little by way of professional development, it gives people the chance to develop and challenge themselves personally. This makes it is clear why many do not agree with reducing the enthusiasm for higher education.

After analysing these stances on university, it is felt the argument to lessen educational emphasis holds little water. It is hoped the world continues to push its young people towards the challenges offered through higher learning.

This model answer was written for IELTS-Blog.com visitors by Ryan Higgins, an online IELTS instructor, blogger and author. For more of his free IELTS resources, visit his blog.

IELTS Writing – Model Answer for a letter (from the May 2011 exam in India)

Since many of you were writing to us, asking to publish answers to the recent IELTS exams that we share, here is the first post of a new series, “Writing Model Answers”. When our visitors talk – we listen, pay attention, and do what we can to help. So, in the spirit of improving things, we have asked Ryan Higgins, an online IELTS instructor, to provide the model answers – and he agreed.

From now on, every week we will be posting a sample answer written on a topic that appeared in a recent exam. Below is the first installment – a letter on a topic that was seen in a General Training exam in Pune, India.

General Training Writing Task 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Write a letter to a teacher asking for a reference letter for a job and explain:
– Why you have chosen him to write the reference letter
– What kind of job you are applying for
– Why you think you are suitable for this job

You should write at least 150 words.

Model Answer

Dear Mr. Moloisa,

As you are aware, this month marks my foray into the working world, having graduated my studies with you at Watson’s Photographer College. I am writing to you to request your aid in my transition from student to employed professional.

As your top scholar last year, I am sure you will be happy to hear my chosen career path is photography. Thanks to your grueling courses, I feel I am completely prepared to take on a professional challenge and am excited to tell you I have been offered to attend the initial employment screening at National Geographic Magazine. As part of this process, I am required to submit a reference letter written by a third party of notable acclaim among the global photography community. Of course, I was hoping I could ask you to be this person.

I would be very grateful for any kind words you could compose on my behalf to help make this opportunity at National Geographic Magazine possible for me.

Thanking you in advance,
Ryan

This model answer was written by Ryan Higgins, an online IELTS instructor, blogger and author. For more of his free IELTS resources, visit his blog.