IELTS HUBIELTS Positive-Negative Essay on Education & Travel & World
Full IELTS Writing Task 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
More and more students are choosing to study at colleges and universities in foreign countries.
Do the benefits of this studying abroad outweigh its drawbacks?
Write at least 250 words.
Introduction
Paraphrase the topic (more students studying abroad) and state the question (do benefits outweigh drawbacks?).
Body Paragraph 1 View 1
Discuss the benefits of studying abroad. Point 1: Cultural experience, different viewpoints, global awareness, adaptability. Point 2: Language skill improvement, competitive advantage in the international job market.
Body Paragraph 2 View 2
Discuss the drawbacks of studying abroad. Point 1: Culture shock, homesickness, emotional distress, negative impact on academics (e.g., Eastern vs. Western cultural adjustment). Point 2: High costs (tuition, living), significant debt, long-term financial pressure.
Conclusion
Summarize the main points (cultural/language benefits vs. emotional/financial difficulties). State the conclusion that drawbacks outweigh benefits.
Band 9 Sample Answer:
In recent times, more students are choosing to study in foreign countries. This raises the question of whether the benefits of this trend outweigh the potential disadvantages.
One of the main advantages of studying abroad is the chance to experience different cultures and viewpoints, which can expand students' understanding of the world. This multicultural experience not only improves their global awareness but also promotes adaptability, a quality highly appreciated in our globalized society. Moreover, studying in a foreign country often means learning in a different language, thereby improving the student's language skills. Being fluent in a second language, especially English, can provide many opportunities in the international job market, giving them a competitive advantage.
However, the downsides of studying abroad should not be ignored. The biggest issue is the possibility of experiencing culture shock and homesickness, which can cause emotional distress and negatively impact academic performance. For example, students from Eastern cultures may find it hard to adjust to the individualistic nature of Western societies, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Furthermore, the cost of studying abroad is often high. The expensive tuition fees, along with living costs, can lead to significant debt, which can take years to pay off, creating long-term financial pressure.
In conclusion, while studying abroad provides cultural and language benefits, the emotional and financial difficulties it brings make it a more challenging option. The emotional strain and the potential for long-term financial stress outweigh the benefits of cultural exposure and language learning.
Band 7 Sample Answer:
In recent years, an increasing number of students have been opting to pursue their higher education in foreign lands. The question arises whether the advantages of this trend surpass the potential disadvantages.
One of the primary benefits of studying abroad is the exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives, which broadens students' horizons. This multicultural exposure not only enhances their global understanding but also fosters adaptability, a trait highly valued in today's globalized world. Additionally, studying in a foreign country often implies studying in a foreign language, thereby enhancing the student's linguistic skills. Proficiency in a second language, particularly English, can open doors to numerous opportunities in the international job market, thus providing a competitive edge.
However, the drawbacks of studying abroad cannot be overlooked. The most significant challenge is the potential for cultural shock and homesickness, which can lead to emotional distress and affect academic performance. For instance, students from Eastern cultures may struggle to adapt to the individualistic nature of Western societies, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Moreover, the financial burden of studying abroad is often substantial. The high tuition fees, coupled with living expenses, can result in significant debt, which can take years to pay off, thus creating a long-term financial strain.
In conclusion, while studying abroad offers cultural and linguistic benefits, the emotional and financial challenges it presents make it a heavier burden. The emotional toll and the potential for long-term financial stress outweigh the advantages of cultural exposure and language acquisition.