Negative or positive development

Sample Answer 1: Band 8

It is argued that luck is the key to some people’s success. As achievement is only attributed to
hard work and determination, I completely disagree with this opinion. I will be explaining my
point of view in the forthcoming paragraphs.

If success was free, everyone would have it. In fact, there are only a few successful individuals
because they are determined and industrious. The harder people work on their dreams, the
more confident they become. Those who lack self-esteem also lack determination and end up
losing hope, resulting in failure. For instance, Thomas Edison, one of the greatest inventors in
the 20th century, conducted thousands of failed experiments with the filament until the finest
light bulb was produced. His success is made by his hard work rather than luck. Another clear
case of success through determination is Nguyen Ngoc Ky, a disabled man. He could not write
by hand; however, with his determination and hard work, he was able to write on his feet and
became a successful teacher.

Luck does not play a role in one’s achievements. It is just a state of mind, so if people are
dependent on luck they could never be successful. For instance, a student who does not study
for an exam might fail. Moreover, it is clear that a person who wins a lottery might soon lose
all of his or her money as it does not require anything to achieve.

Sure, people have been prioritizing luck and destiny for ages and it does play a vital part.
However, in all senses, hard work and determination always overpower an unlucky situation.

In conclusion, for all the reasons I have mentioned above, I believe that to become a successful person at the end of the day, people must be hardworking and determined to work on their
dream, rather than rely on luck.

Structure of the essay

You were given an opinion essay which means you had to pick a side. So,

• Do you agree that a person achieving their aim in life is mostly related to luck?

(or)

· Do you disagree with the fact that a person achieving their aim in life is mostly related
to luck?

Once you pick a side, you can start planning your essay and then writing it.

Don’t forget to state your opinion on it.

Question Paraphrased –

Opinion – As achievement is only attributed to hard work and determination, I completely
disagree with this opinion.

A thesis statement – I will be explaining my point of view in the forthcoming paragraphs.

Body Paragraph 1:

Topic: There are only a few successful people

Supporting points:

• If success was free, everyone would have it
• Only a few successful people are determined and industrious
• Those who lack self-esteem also lack determination

Body Paragraph 2:

Topic: Luck does not play a role in the achievement

Supporting points:

• Luck is a state of mind
• People dependent on luck can never be successful

Conclusion:

Reiterated that to become a successful person at the end of the day, people must be
hardworking and determined and support the side taken in the introduction.

Sample Answer 1: Band 8

In the present scenario, many people think that learning literature should not be an essential
part of the high school curriculum. However, in my opinion, literature still serves a significant
purpose. I will be explaining this in the forthcoming paragraphs.

The ones supporting this thought believe that other subjects should get more attention. There
is no denying the fact that in the 21st century, the most important subjects for students’ future
careers are related to the sciences, such as engineering and computer science, or the practical
humanities, like business. By choosing the trending subject, students can start early to beat the
competition and grab a well-paying job, just after completing high school or college. In contrast,
the novels and poems that students read in high school are usually completely forgotten within
a few years and don’t teach any practical skills to help them earn well in the real world.

Despite this, the literature contains many important and fundamental truths about the human
condition. Life is way more about a secure job and a high-paying career. This can be proved
right from the fact that authors handle the philosophical and psychological side of life. For
instance, the exploration of man’s search for meaning is related to everybody and cannot be
replaced with an established career. Also, the way writers develop their writing helps impart
the importance of artistic expressions among readers. In addition to this, it also helps readers
experience a different world in comparison to the materialistic world that they are used to.

While those who don’t support the importance of novels might be claiming the same with a
full-proof logic, irrespective of the argument, literature offers a different sense to the young
mind, which further opens the doors to creativity and imagination.

In conclusion, the benefits of studying practical subjects don’t outweigh the deeper values of
literature. It is therefore advisable that literature should be emphasized and taught in high
school classrooms.

Structure of the essay

You were given an opinion essay which means you had to pick a side. So,

• Do you agree that it is a waste of time for high school students to study literature, such
as novels or poems?

(or)

· Do you disagree with the fact that it is a waste of time for high school students to study
literature, such as novels or poems?

Once you pick a side, you can start planning your essay and then writing it.

Don’t forget to state your opinion on it.

Question Paraphrased – In the present scenario, many people claim that learning literature
should no longer be an essential part of the high school curriculum.

Opinion – In my opinion, literature still serves a significant purpose.

A thesis statement – I will be explaining this in the forthcoming paragraphs.

Body Paragraph 1:

Topic: Most important subjects are related to science

Supporting points:

• Other subjects get more attention
• Students choose trending subjects to secure a well-paying job
• Novels and poems are usually forgotten as don’t teach practical skills

Body Paragraph 2:

Topic: Literature contains important truths about humans

Supporting points:

• Life is more than acquiring a career
• Great authors deal with the philosophical and psychological side of life
• Exploration of issues is relevant to everyone

Conclusion:

Reiterated that the benefits of studying practical subjects don’t outweigh the deeper values of
literature and support the side taken in the introduction.

Sample Answer 1: Band 8

It is becoming increasingly common for schools across the globe to concentrate on STEM
(Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) to the detriment of the humanities. I believe that
it is a logically motivated decision and overall leaves a negative trend on people. In the next few
paragraphs, I will be highlighting my point of view.

One of the negative aspects of this scenario is that STEM-oriented fields get overvalued.
This enhances pressure on those who are looking forward to developing a career in a
completely different domain. Moreover, this over-emphasis on science, somehow, translates
less art in the world. It is evident that from a rigidly utilitarian perception, resources must get
allocated to a field that has the most economic value.

However, life is way more than somebody’s potential of earning a higher amount. If the
proportion of those excelling in humanities falls, the world will have fewer musicians, writers,
filmmakers, sculptors, painters, and other such artists. Science can, undoubtedly, create a
convenient life. But art helps people lead a fulfilling, satisfying life. The results of such a decline
may not be apparent for generations, but if the funding gets slashed for arts programs, the
world will turn culturally poor and will die down under the burden of technology.

While STEM subjects, undoubtedly, allow people to grab high-paying jobs, concentrating
completely on these subjects could be a great loss to society.

In conclusion, the jobs available for science majors explain their dominance but if looked at
from a universal point of view, this trend will create a world devoid of great artists. Therefore, it
is important to balance the funding.

Structure of the essay

You were given an opinion essay which means you had to pick a side. So,

• Do you agree that educational institutions give greater importance to subjects related to
science and ignore subjects such as drama and literature?

(or)

· Do you disagree with the fact that educational institutions give greater importance to
subjects related to science and ignore subjects such as drama and literature?

Once you pick a side, you can start planning your essay and then writing it.

Don’t forget to state your opinion on it.

Question Paraphrased – It is becoming increasingly common for schools across the globe to
concentrate on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) to the detriment of the
humanities.

Opinion – I believe that it is a logically motivated decision and overall leaves a negative trend on
people.

A thesis statement – In the next few paragraphs, I will be highlighting my point of view.

Body Paragraph 1:

Topic: The negative effects

Supporting points:

• Jobs getting overvalued
• Puts more pressure on those with a different career path
• Less art in the world

Body Paragraph 2:

Topic: Overemphasis on science translates less art in the world

Supporting points:

• Life is more than the potential of earning high
• Art helps people lead a fulfilling life

Conclusion:

Reiterating that the jobs available for science majors explain their dominance but if looked at
from a universal point of view, this trend will create a world devoid of great artists and support
the side was taken in the introduction.

Sample Answer 2 : Band 9

It is becoming increasingly common for schools around the world to emphasize STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) to the detriment of the humanities. This is a logically motivated decision and is negative overall.

The main reason for this shift is a realization of the value of jobs in scientific fields. New inventions and medicines push forward human progress and generate billions of dollars in revenue across a wide spectrum of industries. It, therefore, follows there are high-paying jobs available in private and public sectors for engineers, researchers, scientists, and mathematicians. At the very least, someone who majors in a STEM-related subject will be able to find a quality teaching position. This guarantees of a minimum level of success and the possibility of a much greater career motivate parents, institutions, and students themselves to prioritize and pursue scientific careers.

This over-emphasis on science will translate to less art in the world. It is true that from a strictly utilitarian point of view, resources ought to be allocated to fields with the most economic value. Life is, however, more than the sum of everyone’s earning potential. If the proportion of humanities majors falls, there will be fewer painters, sculptors, filmmakers, writers, and musicians. Science may create modern conveniences but the arts are more important for a fulfilling and enjoyable life. The results of this decline might not become apparent for generations, but if funding is slashed for arts programs, the world will become culturally poorer and the art that has enriched and elevated humanity will give way to a tranquil, technocratic future.

In conclusion, the jobs available to science majors explain their dominance but taken as a whole this trend will result in a world bereft of great artists. It is therefore important to balance funding to a defensible degree.

Sample Answer 3 : Band 9

Education plays a pivotal role in molding one’s life. However, numerous schools and universities give more weightage to science subjects in this contemporary epoch than recreational activities. This essay asserts that it is undoubtedly negative growth and should be given equal importance to drama and literature.

First and foremost, subjects other than science are essential for the overall development of students. For example, while studying physics, chemistry, biology helps pupils excel in academics, drama and literature bring out the hidden talents of an individual. On the other hand, if education institutions focus more on science-related topics, students might get bored and eventually lose interest. Also, recreational activities boost a person’s creativity. Moreover, it is a great tool to express thought for the welfare of society. Hence, it certainly plays a crucial role in forming pupils’ lives.

On the flip side, several educational bodies are of the thought that emphasizes solely only science. They argue that imparting this knowledge will help pupils have better job opportunities and proper career growth. However, it is not valid for every person. For instance, many children are exceptionally good at arts, and if given a chance, they might become experts in this domain. Furthermore, they would become more responsible and dutiful citizens when they grow up.

In conclusion, although science is of paramount importance because of its tangible benefits, recreational activities are unquestionably prominent factors to imbibe personality traits such as kindness, compassion, empathy, and sympathy. Nevertheless, it seems that academia should adopt a balanced approach by rendering quality weightage to science and literature alike.

Sample Answer 4 : Band 8.0

Education has always been the center of attention throughout the passing centuries. it is often believed that the STEM subject is the essence of developing a solid and modernized curriculum. Therefore, literature and arts are more likely to be neglected by most educational schools. This essay will discuss the reason for this trend and how these scientific courses have more advantages than literary texts.

The advancement of technologies has brought attention to the courses related to science. Without these subjects, it would be impossible to invent all of the cutting-edge products that have an immense influence on the life of a human. In other words, the development of medical and economical structures has saved millions of people’s lives and enhanced their lifestyle because of the heavy investment of the STEM system. Another drive for this trend, there are more job positions related to the scientific stream because it is believed that they acted as a safeguard for building a better future. Therefore, most parents and students are motivated to concentrate on having a career linked directly to these courses. For these reasons, scientific education plays a key role in instilling the beliefs of its significance.

This direction has pushed the public away from the beauty and importance of the arts. This literature has firmly shaped the identity of people; as result, it is an important component of building a stable community. In other words, without the discovery of historical tracks; humans would never be able to understand how their predecessors were working and living their lives. In addition, all type of arts has always been considered as entertainment that has helped people to enjoy their time. Being focused on scientific information would have made the life of people more boring and depressed because arts have a vital role in connecting them together intrinsically.

To sum up, Although scientific papers have gained popularity over other artistic subjects works, it has negative consequences on the way how people are connected to their past and present.

Sample Answer 5 : Band 8.0

In the present-day world, it is reckoned education is so paramount that one’s destiny is by and large determined by its success or failure. Nonetheless, the curriculum and its major contents are still a bone of contention. Despite the educational enthusiasts’ outcry and outrage, the officials at the helm have not paid heed to their passionate plea to modify the syllabus. The rationale behind their appeal is that a number of educational establishments show a chronic bias towards science at the expense of art, drama, and literature. Although it is opined that several scholars are categorically convinced science is the need of the hour, a relatively tiny minority voices their stiff opposition to the contention of this bevy of narrow-minded theoreticians. Hence, a comprehensive analytic approach can resolve a great many apprehensions related to the subject under discussion.

To the best of my knowledge, numerous famous personages who are indoctrinated with prejudices against art subjects often shy away from supporting the earnest endeavors of the educational institutions that prefer subjects such as drama and literature. As a matter of fact, the inexplicable apathy expressed by these VIPs has catastrophic repercussions in the running of such colleges and universities; in the long run, these institutions incur a hefty financial loss. The unprecedented decline in the number of students due to the dearth of collaboration of a section of teaching faculty has made the administration of these academies think twice before they cater to the art stream.

In the aftermath of the overwhelming financial loss, the solitary viable alternative that is open before the educational institutions are to focus on science and other allied subjects. For the past few decades, what has been drummed into the people at the apex of educational organizations is to shun art subjects and accept science and technology, which are the most sought-after branches. To prove their point, they further articulate that this era belongs to high-fliers, whose sole interest is to pursue their pet subjects such as science, IT et cetera. While cutting a long story short, it can be summed up that the intense passion of young adults for science stream, the discriminatory attitude of a good number of dons at the tertiary level, and the inane inertia of the officialdom in the educational department are all contributory causes for this sad state of affairs.

Notwithstanding the superficial official blessing from many eminent quarters, it is pointed out that the current trend in favor of only science is, of course, suicidal. It is high time the educationalists think from a much broader perspective. Without any iota of doubt, it is scientifically proven that the influence of literature, drama, and music is immensely cardinal to help enhance the complete growth of an individual. Over and above that, George Bernard Shaw, Shakespeare, Francis Bacon, and a multitude of other playwrights, philosophers, poets, and essayists take the view that ingenuity, humaneness, profound knowledge about life’s stark realities, and so on and so forth are all fostered with the study of art subjects. All these conclusive pieces of evidence lead one to arrive at the last word: emphasizing excessively the significance of science subjects and undermining the value of drama and literature will create chaos in the society, which is undoubtedly a negative development.

Whilst recapitulating, the following salient points are to be underscored. First and foremost, unless remedial measures are adopted by experts to do away with inhibition towards the policies and programs of educational institutions that support the art stream, the future of our younger generation will be in jeopardy. Then, instead of unilateral decisions, let there be more meaningful and transparent dialogues and discourses between the educational establishments and the student community, who are generally on the receiving end.

Sample Answer 1 : Band 8

A certain number of nations allocate funds for professional athletic facilities, which are
available only for first-class sportspeople, but not for ordinary citizens. In my opinion, it is
rather an unfavorable development than a positive one. In the upcoming paragraphs, I will be
explaining my point of view in detail.

First, the government should take care of the health and physical development of all citizens
and not only sports elites. This is because every working citizen pays taxes and should have
equal rights for social amenities, including specialized sports centres. Thus, funding of special-
purpose sports facilities might be considered social inequality, especially if they were not
available for a regular person. For example, when I had decided to start jogging, I was
completely frustrated by the fact that a running ring with an excellent soft covering was not
allowed for training if a person was not a member of the national team.

Some people might argue that top athletes should have priority because they represent a
country on the world stage. Despite the fact that international competitions and the reputation
of the country are important, investing in professionals’ needs only does not pay off in the long
term because the construction and maintenance of sports halls are highly expensive.
Meanwhile, modern society has other crucial issues, which are in need of funds, such as the
health care system, city infrastructure, and environmental issues.

While I understand how important it is to equip top athletes to help them perform better,
investing every single penny on them is not acceptable.

In conclusion, I think that the latest tendency among certain governments to invest in sports
facilities for superior sportspersons leaving average people behind is a negative trend because
every citizen should have equal rights. Moreover, in terms of revenue from international
events, funding these elite sport objects is not profitable.

Structure of the essay

You were given an opinion essay which means you had to pick a side. So,

• Do you agree that the countries should invest in specialized sports facilities for top
athletes and not for the average person?

(or)

· Do you disagree with the fact that countries should invest in specialized sports facilities
for top athletes but for the average person too?

Once you pick a side, you can start planning your essay and then writing it.

Don’t forget to state your opinion on it.

Question Paraphrased – A certain number of nations allocate funds for professional athletic
facilities, which are available only for first-class sportspeople, but not for ordinary citizens.

Opinion – In my opinion, it is rather an unfavorable development than a positive one.

A thesis statement – In the upcoming paragraphs, I will be explaining my point of view in
detail.

Body Paragraph 1:

Topic: Health and physical development of all citizens

Supporting points:

• Government should take care of the health and physical development
• Working citizens pay taxes
• Funding of special-purpose sports facilities could be social inequality

Body Paragraph 2:

Topic: Investing in professionals’ needs may not pay off in the long run

Supporting points:

• Construction and maintenance of sports halls are expensive
• Modern society has other crucial issues

Conclusion:

Reiterated that the latest tendency among certain governments to invest in sports facilities for
superior sportspersons leaving average people behind is a negative trend and supported the
side taken in introduction.

Sample Answer 2 : Band 9

Heavy investment in sports facilities aimed at professional athletes is common in countries that want to compete in international events. This is a positive development for national pride but negative on the whole as it takes funding away from the average citizen.

Proponents of this practice would argue that it brings the nation together. The best examples of this relate to international competitions like the summer and winter Olympics. China and the United States have famously invested millions in building sports facilities for prospective Olympians and the results in terms of medals justify the expenditure. The wider implications for national unity come from an entire country watching the telecasts and rooting together. Divisive domestic disputes are temporarily forgotten as everyone focuses on the progress of their country. Much of this would be impossible without specialized sports facilities for the best competitors.

However, these facilities benefit a select few over the majority. Funding for such facilities is a limited part of a federal budget that must cover essential areas like health, education, and the military. Any money diverted towards preparing world-class athletes for international competitions is to some extent a waste as it cuts into the budget for facilities for average people. For example, many inner city youths in poorer neighborhoods lack access to parks and such facilities and this has been identified as one of the factors that allows for poverty to be inherited over generations. Direct the funding away from these expensive gyms for top athletes and it would be possible to build many more facilities that serve a much wider and underserved segment of the population.

In conclusion, despite the less tangible benefits to national cohesiveness, this a negative on level as it favors a talented minority. More resources should be allocated towards facilities for those in greater need.

Sample Answer 3 : Band 9

A  number of nations allocate (to give an amount of time, money, etc. to someone or something) funds for professional athletic facilities, which are available only for first-class sportspeople, but not for ordinary citizens. In my opinion, it is rather an unfavorable (having a negative opinion) development than a positive one. In the upcoming paragraphs, I will be explaining my point of view in detail.

First, the government should take care of the health and physical development of all citizens and not only sports elites (the richest, most powerful, or best-trained group in a society). This is because every working citizen pays taxes and should have equal rights for social amenities (something that makes it enjoyable or comfortable to live or work somewhere), including specialized sports centres. Thus, funding of special­ purpose sports facilities might be considered social inequality, especially if they were not available for a regular person. For example, when I had decided to start jogging, I was completely frustrated by the fact that a running ring with an excellent soft covering was not allowed for training if a person was not a member of the national team.

Some people argue that top athletes should have top priority because they represent a country. Despite the fact that international competitions are of great importance (=important), investing in professionals’ needs only does not pay off (brings you some benefit) in the long term because the construction and maintenance of sports halls are highly expensive. Meanwhile, modern society has other crucial issues, which are in need of funds, such as the health care system, city infrastructure( systems within a place which affects how well it operates), and environmental issues.

In conclusion, I think that the latest tendency among certain governments to invest in sports facilities for superior sportspersons leaving average people behind is a negative trend because every citizen should have equal rights. Moreover, in terms of revenue from international events, funding these elite sport objects is not profitable.

Sample Answer 4 : Band 8.0

There is a rising tendency that government sports funding is spent on facilities for professional sportsmen rather than for public sports. While I agree that this policy brings some substantial benefits, I am convinced that negative aspects of this trend is more significant.

On the one hand, investment in specialized sports facilities for top athletes may lead to considerable successes. It is obvious that when sportsmen have a chance to practice in better conditions, with modern sports equipment, they tend to reach their full potential and achieve high records. Therefore, they can produce spectacular results in international competitions and gain great respect for their country. Take China as an example. Instead of allocating funds for public sports centers, the Chinese government spends a large amount of money on professional sports. This policy shows a very positive outcome with China often remaining high in standings in Olympics Games.

On the downside, I believe that the drawbacks of insufficient financial resources for public sports facilities should not be overlooked. At its simplest, public health may deteriorate. The fact that only a small amount of money is spent for public sports would result in the shortage of fitness centers and an increase in the expense to join sports clubs. As a result, not many people can engage in sports activities regularly, which will cause damage to their health. Another negative impact would be that it seems to be hard to unearth sports potential because only a small number of people take part in sports activities

In conclusion, it is my opinion that the neglect of investing in public sports centers has both advantages and disadvantages, but the adverse features of this policy are likely more important