Here is a recent question that appeared in the IELTS writing exam. In this article, we will provide you with a model answer to the question, along with important vocabulary and phrases used in the passage.

The question presented in the Writing Section II of the IELTS Writing Exam is as follows:

‘Education is not a luxury but a basic human right and as such should be free for everyone irrespective of personal wealth. Do you agree or disagree?’

Upon analyzing the question, we can see that it pertains to the concept of education as a luxury versus a necessity. Since the question asks, “Do you agree or disagree?” it is necessary to take a clear viewpoint and explain the reasons behind your chosen stance.

Before moving forward, we recommend that you write your own answer to the question. Afterward, you can read the model answer provided to gain a better understanding.

Model Band-7 Answer:

Education, being the backbone of a nation, is a vivid indicator of development. I partially agree with the view that education, particularly at the primary level, should be free for everyone.

To begin with, it is a natural human tendency that anything provided for free tends to decline in value. The same can be said for education. The reason higher education is highly regarded is because of the immense effort required to attain it. If it were otherwise, many students would not invest their time and dedication into it. Furthermore, making higher education free may reduce the motivation levels of professors and faculty, leading to a decline in the overall quality of education. Consequently, there is a possibility that the failure rate could increase if education is made entirely free, as students would no longer bear the financial burden of fees.

There are various ways to make education widely accessible to all sections of society. This can be achieved by providing easy education loans with reduced interest rates, implementing effective scholarship policies for deserving students at the school level, and maximizing funding for colleges and universities. For example, the Swami Vivekananda scholarship, which is currently available for single girls and students from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds, has contributed to India’s progress in the field of education and research. Furthermore, it has been reported that the number of school dropouts has decreased from 25 million in 2003 to 8.1 million in 2009.

In conclusion, primary education should be made free, but higher education should be made more accessible rather than completely free.

Important Vocabulary and Phrases:

– Backbone of a nation

– Vivid indicator

– Immense

– Meritorious