Syllabus topic 4: Opinion essay – agree or disagree with a statement
170–230 words · Opinion essay. Respond to the statement: 'Every university course should include a period of work experience.' Give a clear position, develop reasons and consider a limitation or counterargument.
Write 170–230 words. Respond to the statement: 'Every university course should include a period of work experience.' Give a clear position, develop reasons and consider a limitation or counterargument.
You can partly agree, but specify what your support depends on. Avoid a conclusion that suddenly changes your position.
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Use these phrases if they fit your ideas. There is no single correct response.
170 more words to reach the suggested range.
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I agree to a large extent that university students should have access to work experience. However, making it compulsory for every course would only be fair if suitable opportunities were available to everyone. Practical experience can help students understand how their knowledge is used outside the classroom. It may also reveal whether a particular working environment suits them. A student who enjoys studying a subject does not necessarily know what a related job involves, so a short placement can support a more informed decision. Nevertheless, poorly designed placements may offer little educational value. If students spend most of their time doing unrelated routine tasks, the placement can become an interruption rather than an extension of their studies. Unpaid opportunities far from home could also disadvantage students with limited money or caring responsibilities. For these reasons, I would support a requirement only where universities can ensure meaningful, accessible alternatives. These might include local projects or supervised work with community organisations. The aim should be relevant learning, not simply the presence of a placement on a course description. Quality and access matter more than making every student follow an identical route.
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Continue this topic or practice every English skill at the same level.
35 min · Formal apology
15 min · Past
10 min · Nature
10 min · Monologue
10 min · Opinion essay
15 min · Mixed practice
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