Education equality has consistently appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in recent years. Based on analysis from major IELTS preparation platforms, approximately 15% of Task 2 questions relate to educational access and opportunities. As discussed in The importance of access to higher education, this topic remains highly relevant for test-takers.
Global education equality concept showing diverse students in classroom
Recent Test Question Analysis
Some people believe that governments should focus on providing free university education to all citizens, while others argue that resources should be directed towards basic education. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Breakdown
- Topic: Educational resource allocation
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key aspects: Free university education vs. basic education funding
- Focus: Government policy and priorities
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The allocation of educational resources has sparked considerable debate, with some advocating for universal free tertiary education while others prioritize fundamental education funding. In my view, while both levels deserve attention, strengthening basic education should take precedence.
Those supporting free university education argue that it promotes social mobility and economic development. When financial barriers are removed, talented individuals from all backgrounds can access higher education, leading to a more skilled workforce and innovative society. This connects closely to The role of governments in supporting equality in educational opportunities.
However, proponents of basic education investment emphasize its foundational role. Quality primary and secondary education creates the essential building blocks for all future learning. Without strong fundamental skills in literacy and numeracy, students cannot effectively engage in higher education, regardless of its cost. Furthermore, basic education reaches a broader population segment, ensuring more equitable development.
I believe prioritizing basic education yields greater societal benefits. Firstly, it provides universal access to essential skills needed for participation in modern society. Secondly, it creates a stronger foundation for those who pursue higher education. Finally, it addresses The need for global poverty reduction by enabling more people to access better employment opportunities.
Nevertheless, governments should implement a balanced approach, perhaps offering selective scholarships for higher education while maintaining robust basic education funding. This ensures both educational quality at fundamental levels and opportunities for exceptional students to advance their studies.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Education is very important for development, and governments must decide how to spend money on it. Some people think university should be free, but others say basic education needs more support. I will discuss both ideas.
Free university education has some benefits. When students don’t pay fees, more people can study at university. This helps poor families give their children better opportunities. Also, countries need many graduates for economic growth.
Basic education is also important. Children need good primary and secondary schools to learn reading, writing, and mathematics. These skills help them in daily life and work. Many children in poor areas don’t finish school because of bad facilities or lack of teachers.
In my opinion, basic education should get more money. First, it helps more people than university education. Second, good basic education makes better university students. Third, it gives everyone a chance to learn important skills.
The government should focus on making basic schools better but also help some poor students go to university. This way, education can help everyone in society.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments
- Balanced discussion with clear position
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple sentence structures
- Adequate organization
- Basic development of ideas
- Some repetition and informal language
Key Vocabulary
- allocation (n) /ˌæləˈkeɪʃən/ – distribution of resources
- tertiary education (n) /ˈtɜːʃəri/ – university-level education
- precedence (n) /ˈpresɪdəns/ – priority in importance
- foundational (adj) /faʊnˈdeɪʃənl/ – basic and essential
- numeracy (n) /ˈnjuːmərəsi/ – ability to understand numbers
- equitable (adj) /ˈekwɪtəbl/ – fair and impartial
- robust (adj) /rəʊˈbʌst/ – strong and effective
This topic connects well with The benefits of community-based education, highlighting the importance of accessible education at all levels.
For practice, write your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Consider addressing similar themes like “Educational technology access” or “Rural vs. urban educational opportunities” in your preparation.
