The IELTS Teacher Mastering IELTS Writing: Model Answers

Some people think that all university students should study whatever they like. Others
believe that they should only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future,
such as those related to science and technology.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

GAP FILL VERSION (SEE COMPLETED VERSION BELOW)

There is no ___________ universities play a crucial ___________ in educating society. However,

while some believe that this education should be geared ___________ towards subjects that may
be of practical ___________ in the future, I would agree with those who argue that ___________
choice of degree should lie with the student.

Firstly, it is vital that universities equip our workforce with scientists, engineers and other
professionals that ___________ our society to progress. This is because a country without such
experts is a ___________ without the means to plan, create or maintain essential features of
___________ life. For instance, if we ___________ not have university-educated engineers, we
would not enjoy such public transport facilities and ___________ as subways, trams and bridges.
The argument goes that if students are allowed to choose what they want to study, then there
___________ be a shortage of ___________ important workers.

However, I believe allowing students to choose what they want to study is the only way to
___________ motivated, passionate, and thus competent professionals. The reason for
___________ is that free ___________ provides people with a sense of autonomy, and research
has shown that autonomy is a necessary catalyst for ___________ and enthusiasm. As a result,
students have the impetus to master their subject rather than ___________ aim for good enough.
Conversely, if universities force students ___________ one category of study, then the drive for
mastery that ___________ have come with pursuing their passions ___________ disappear.

In conclusion, although it is ___________ critical importance that universities ___________ to

supply society with professionals in the ___________ of technology and science, I feel that it
should be the student’s choice to do ___________ on the basis that this will give them the
___________ to excel in their work.
The IELTS Teacher Mastering IELTS Writing: Model Answers

COMPLETED VERSION

There is no doubt universities play a crucial role in educating society. However, while some believe
that this education should be geared exclusively towards subjects that may be of practical use in
the future, I would agree with those who argue that one’s choice of degree should lie with the
student.

Firstly, it is vital that universities equip our workforce with scientists, engineers and other
professionals that enable our society to progress. This is because a country without such experts is
a country without the means to plan, create or maintain essential features of modern life. For
instance, if we did not have university-educated engineers, we would not enjoy such public
transport facilities and infrastructure as subways, trams and bridges. The argument goes that if
students are allowed to choose what they want to study, then there will be a shortage of these
important workers.

However, I believe allowing students to choose what they want to study is the only way to acquire
motivated, passionate, and thus competent professionals. The reason for this is that free choice
provides people with a sense of autonomy, and research has shown that autonomy is a necessary
catalyst for drive and enthusiasm. As a result, students have the impetus to master their subject
rather than merely aim for good enough. Conversely, if universities force students into one
category of study, then the drive for mastery that would have come with pursuing their passions will
disappear.

In conclusion, although it is of critical importance that universities continue to supply society with
professionals in the fields of technology and science, I feel that it should be the student’s choice to
do so on the basis that this will give them the motivation to excel in their work.