IELTS Writing Task 2: University Tuition Fees – Band 8.0 Sample with Full Breakdown

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Full Prompt (Task 2, Academic Writing Task 2)

Some people believe that universities should provide free education and that those who can afford to pay should compensate for those who cannot. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Sample Answers with Scoring Breakdowns

Band 6.0 Answer

Some people think universities should be free, and the rich should pay for the poor. I agree with this. Here is why.

Firstly, education is a right, not a privilege. If universities are free, everyone can go, no matter how much money they have. Rich people can pay more, and this money can help poor students. This is fair because everyone should have the same chance to study.

Secondly, educated people help society. If more people go to university, the country will have more doctors, engineers, and teachers. This makes the country better. Rich people should pay because they benefit too. They need good doctors and engineers just like poor people.

In conclusion, universities should be free, and rich people should pay for poor students. This is fair and helps society.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (6.0): Presents a clear position but with limited development. Relevant ideas are included, but not fully extended.
• Coherence and Cohesion (6.0): Ideas are logically organized but with some awkward transitions. Some cohesion devices are used, but there are some mechanical issues.
• Lexical Resource (6.0): Uses a mix of appropriate and limited vocabulary. Some word choice is repetitive or inaccurate.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (6.0): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Some grammatical errors are present, but meaning is generally clear.

Band 7.0 Answer

The notion that universities should offer free education, subsidized by wealthier individuals, is a contentious issue with valid arguments on both sides.

On one hand, proponents argue that education is a fundamental right. By removing financial barriers, universities can ensure equal access for all students, regardless of their socio-economic background. Wealthier individuals could contribute through higher taxes or direct donations, creating a more equitable system. This approach aligns with the principle that education should be accessible to everyone, fostering social mobility and reducing inequality.

On the other hand, opponents contend that free education may lead to a lack of accountability. Students might not value their education as highly if they do not bear any financial responsibility. Additionally, relying on the wealthy to fund education could create resentment and strain social cohesion. Some argue that a balanced approach, such as tiered tuition fees based on income, would be more sustainable.

In conclusion, while the idea of free university education has merit, it is essential to consider the potential drawbacks and explore alternative solutions that promote both accessibility and responsibility.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (7.0): Presents a clear position with relevant, extended arguments. Supports the position with some examples.
• Coherence and Cohesion (7.0): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Uses a range of cohesive devices effectively.
• Lexical Resource (7.0): Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some less common lexis. Some word choice is sophisticated but with minor inaccuracies.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (7.0): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Some grammatical errors are present but do not impede communication.

Band 8.0 Answer

The proposition that universities should offer tuition-free education, funded by wealthier individuals, warrants careful examination of its societal implications.

Advocates of this model posit that education is a cornerstone of societal progress and should be accessible to all. By eliminating financial barriers, universities can attract a diverse student body, fostering innovation and intellectual vitality. Wealthier individuals, who often benefit from a highly educated workforce, could contribute through progressive taxation or philanthropic initiatives. This approach would not only promote social equity but also enhance the overall quality of education by encouraging greater participation from talented individuals regardless of their financial background.

However, detractors argue that such a system could engender a sense of entitlement among students, diminishing their appreciation for the value of education. Furthermore, relying on the wealthy to bear the financial burden might create resentment and undermine social harmony. A more balanced approach could involve income-contingent repayment schemes or merit-based scholarships, which incentivize academic excellence while ensuring accessibility.

In conclusion, while the idea of tuition-free university education is compelling, it is crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the challenges and explore alternative models that strike a balance between accessibility and accountability.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (8.0): Presents a clear, fully developed position with relevant, extended arguments. Supports the position with effective examples and clear progression.
• Coherence and Cohesion (8.0): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Uses a range of cohesive devices effectively and appropriately.
• Lexical Resource (8.0): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with some less common lexis. Word choice is sophisticated and precise, with rare inaccuracies.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (8.0): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with frequent error-free sentences. Some grammatical errors are present but do not impede communication.

Band 9.0 Answer

The debate surrounding the provision of tuition-free university education, financed by wealthier individuals, encapsulates the tension between equity and responsibility in modern societies.

Proponents of this model argue convincingly that education is a fundamental right that should not be contingent upon one's financial circumstances. By removing financial barriers, universities can cultivate a more inclusive academic environment, thereby harnessing the full potential of all individuals. Wealthier segments of society, who often benefit disproportionately from advanced education, could contribute through progressive taxation or targeted philanthropy. This approach would not only promote social justice but also foster a more skilled and diverse workforce, driving economic growth and innovation.

Conversely, critics contend that such a system could engender a sense of complacency among students, undermining their motivation to excel academically. Additionally, relying solely on the wealthy to fund education might create social fissures and perpetuate a sense of dependency. A more nuanced solution could involve a hybrid model, combining subsidized education with merit-based financial aid and income-contingent repayment plans, thereby balancing accessibility with personal accountability.

In conclusion, while the concept of tuition-free university education is laudable, it is essential to carefully consider its implementation to ensure that it achieves its intended goals without inadvertently fostering unintended consequences.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (9.0): Presents a clear, fully developed position with relevant, extended arguments. Supports the position with effective examples and clear progression.
• Coherence and Cohesion (9.0): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Uses a range of cohesive devices effectively and appropriately.
• Lexical Resource (9.0): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with sophisticated and precise word choice. Rare inaccuracies.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (9.0): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with frequent error-free sentences. Rare grammatical errors.

15+ Vocabulary Highlights with Definitions and Example Collocations

1. Contentious (adjective) - causing or likely to cause an argument; controversial.

• Example: The issue of tuition fees remains contentious among policymakers.

1. Proponent (noun) - a person who supports or advocates a particular cause, idea, or policy.

• Example: Proponents of free education argue for its societal benefits.

1. Equitable (adjective) - fair and just; treating everyone equally.

• Example: An equitable system ensures access to education for all.

1. Subsidized (adjective) - supported financially by a grant or subsidy.

• Example: Subsidized education reduces the financial burden on students.

1. Philanthropic (adjective) - relating to the practice of donating money and time to help make life better for other people.

• Example: Philanthropic initiatives can fund scholarships for underprivileged students.

1. Entitlement (noun) - the belief that one is inherently deserving of rights, benefits, or special treatment.

• Example: Some argue that free education may create a sense of entitlement.

1. Incentivize (verb) - to provide someone with a reason for doing something, typically one that involves the chance of a gain or reward.

• Example: Merit-based scholarships incentivize academic excellence.

1. Contingent (adjective) - dependent on or conditioned by something else.

• Example: Income-contingent repayment plans adjust based on earnings.

1. Diverse (adjective) - showing a great deal of variety; very different.

• Example: A diverse student body enriches the academic environment.

1. Innovation (noun) - the introduction of new ideas, methods, or devices.

• Example: Education fosters innovation and societal progress.

1. Resentment (noun) - bitter indignation at being treated unfairly.

• Example: Relying on the wealthy to fund education might create resentment.

1. Sustainable (adjective) - able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.

• Example: A sustainable education model ensures long-term accessibility.

1. Vitality (noun) - the state of being strong and active; energy.

• Example: A diverse student body fosters intellectual vitality.

1. Progressive (adjective) - happening or developing gradually or in stages; forward-looking.

• Example: Progressive taxation ensures equitable funding for education.

1. Nuanced (adjective) - characterized by subtle differences or distinctions.

• Example: A nuanced solution balances accessibility and accountability.

5 Common Mistakes Students Make on This Type of Prompt

1. Lack of Clear Position: Failing to present a clear stance on the issue, resulting in a vague or unclear argument.

1. Insufficient Development: Providing only superficial arguments without extending or supporting them with examples or reasoning.

1. Repetitive Vocabulary: Using a limited range of vocabulary, which can make the response seem less sophisticated.

1. Poor Cohesion: Failing to use cohesive devices effectively, leading to a disjointed or confusing structure.

1. Grammatical Errors: Making frequent grammatical mistakes that impede communication and reduce clarity.

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