Humagain) IELTS

ESSAY SAMPLE
Going overseas for university study is an exciting prospect for many people. But while it may offer some
advantages, it is probably better to stay home because of the difficulties a student inevitably encounters living
and studying in a different culture.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Give reasons for your answer.
transition marker// connector//
You should write at least 250 words.
signal word/phrase
SAMPLE ANSWER
Topical introduction:
There is no doubt that going to study in a foreign country, with its general background
different language and culture, can be a frustrating and sometimes
INTRODUCTION painful experience. However, while overseas study may have its Thesis: Main Idea
drawbacks, the difficulties are far outweighed by its advantages. It foreshadows what is
Indeed, people who go abroad for study open themselves up to going to be discussed in
valuable experiences that those who stay at home will never have. the body of the essay.
It draws on the essay-
The most obvious advantage to overseas university study is a real- question.
life use of a different language in its native land. While a person
can study a foreign language in his or her own country, it cannot
compare with the constant use of the very language in an
academic setting and everyday life. There is no better opportunity First Issue
to improve second-language skills than living in the country in (in support of
which it is spoken. Moreover, when one applies for jobs back overseas studies)
BODY
home that require the knowledge of a foreign language, the prior
It usually appears use of the language during one's studies abroad offers a distinct
with two to three advantage.
issues (for an IELTS
essay)—generally Further, studying on a university campus offers a good
spread across as intercultural experience and a space where one can socialise with
many paragraphs. Second Issue
students from across the world. The foreign student is, in fact, (in support of
It is an extension of not alone in having come from far away. He or she will likely overseas studies)
the thesis. encounter many others from overseas with diverse cultural
backgrounds. Consequently, one not only learns the ways of life
on a socio-cultural level, but also has important overseas contacts
for one’s advantage in later professional life.
Finally, living and studying abroad offers one a new and different Third Issue
perspective of the world and, perhaps most important, of one's (in support of
own country. Once beyond the initial shock of being in a new overseas studies)
culture, the student slowly begins to get a meaningful
understanding of the host society in all of its dimensions and
learns to adapt to it. On returning home, one surely then sees
one's own country in a new, often more appreciative, light. It summarises the
CONCLUSION
preceding parts of the
In sum, while any anxiety about going overseas for university essay (not here).
study is certainly understandable, it is important, nonetheless, to It generally concludes with
remember that the benefits this experience offers make it all a statement giving a
worthwhile. (348 words) verdict, or recommending
something, or anticipating
a future course of action/
1 events.