SAMPLE IELTS ESSAYS

The following sample IELTS essays will give you an idea

of how to develop your essay topic into a well-structured,
full-length essay. All the essays below will help you;
however, the first free sample essay Computers and
Children, will help you in a special way as it provides
two responses to the same essay one which is good and
the other which is great. Read through them to discover the
difference and to learn how your essay can go from good
to great.
A top-scoring essay has a variety of clear characteristics
which distinguish it from a mediocre essay. Here are a few
of them:

Upgraded, advanced vocabulary, instead of

commonly-used words & expressions
Varied sentence structure, instead of only short,
simple sentences
Complex grammatical structures, instead of very
basic ones
Dynamic style, instead of lack of style
Examples, details and transition words, instead of
empty repetition

Band 9 Expert User

Has full operational command of the language: appropriate,
accurate and fluent with complete understanding.
Band 8 Very Good User
Has full operational command of the language with only
occasional unsystematic inaccuracies .
Band 7 Good User
Has operational command of the language, though with
occasional inaccuracies, and misunderstandings in some
situations.
Band 6 Competent User
Has general effective command of the language despite some
inaccuracies, and misunderstandings
Band 5 Modest User
Has partial command of the language, coping with overall
meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many
mistakes.

IELTS Scoring
The IELTS exam tests your ability to communicate in
English. The way to higher IELTS scores is three-fold:
o
o
o

understand the test format

develop the primary and supporting
language skills required in the exam
implement specific strategies, techniques
and tricks to earn extra marks in the
speaking and writing sections where
there is scope to receive extra points,
versus the all or no points option in the
reading and listening section.

IELTS scores are expressed in terms of bands of language

ability, with full and half band scores given for each
section. The highest score you can receive is a Band 9,
which represents Expert User. General descriptions of other
band scores are given below. For a more detailed
description of band scores, please refer to the official IELTS
website.
You receive separate scores in each of the four modules
listening, reading, writing and speaking and a fifth
score, which is your overall score. Some institutions are
only concerned with your overall score, while others
require specific scores in the separate modules, along with
a certain overall score.

Band 4 Limited User

Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent
problems in understanding and expression. Is unable to use
complex language.
Band 3 Extremently Limited User
Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar
situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.
Band 2 Intermittent User
No real communication is possible except for the most basic
information using isolated words to meet immediate needs. Has
great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.
Band 1 Non User
Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a
few isolated words.
Band 0
Did not attempt the exam.

Sample IELTS Essay 1 "Computers & Children"

1 Essay, 2 Results: How to Transform a Good IELTS
Essay into a Great IELTS Essay
To get a high score on your IELTS essay, you need to know
what a great essay consists of. To help you understand this, we
have given you a chance to read two versions of the same essay
one good and the other great. Both versions have been
written by an experienced IELTS trainer.
Just read the two versions of the same sample essay below.
You may wish to print them out to compare them more easily.
Then, try to learn some expressions and sentence structures
from the high-scoring essay. Use them, if possible, on exam
day, and you will certainly get higher marks on your IELTS
essay. Be sure to check out our other free sample IELTS
essays, too.

From a professional perspective, the computer has found a

permanent place in the workplace. Today, employers still pay
to provide computer training to their employees. Tomorrow,
corporations will expect prospective job applicants to already
possess these critical job skills. Consequently, parents who
encourage their child to use the computer for a reasonable
period of time daily are in fact investing in the child's future
career.
In conclusion, there is no doubt that the computer as a
technological tool is here to stay. The sooner children become
computer-literate, the better for many aspects of their future
lives.
(299 words)

Essay 1 Medium Score Band 5-6

Using a computer every day can have more negative than
positive effects on children. Do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant
examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Essay 1 High Score Band 8-9

In today's modern world, computers are an essential part of
everyday life. Around the globe, children often use computers
from a very young age. Although it is important for children to
participate in various well-balanced activities, in my opinion,
children who use the computer daily are actually developing a
critical skill for future success. The bases for my views are
personal, academic, and professional.
From a personal point of view, computers are an invaluable
resource to help young people explore the world around them.
For example, children who use Internet to satisfy their curiosity
about diverse topics are already becoming independent
learners. No child with a computer is ever bored! By starting
early in their lives, children feel totally at ease around
computers; they are also able to take advantage of the wide
range of services computers provide.
From an academic viewpoint, children have no choice but to
master this technological invention. For instance, when I was
in university, students brought their laptops to class to take
notes, do research and exchange information. They wrote
assignments, created presentations and developed databases.
Children who build early confidence and experience in these
abilities are at a distinct advantage over those who have not.

In today's modern world, computers are needed everyday.

Around the world, children use computers from the time they
are little. It's true that children should have fun when they are
young; however, in my opinion, a child who knows how to use
the computer will be more successful in the future. My reasons
for this view are personal, academic and professional.
From a personal point of view, computers can help young
people to learn more about the world. For example, some
children use the Internet to find information on different
subjects. In this way, they learn to find answers by themselves.
By using the computer when they are little, children feel more
comfortable around computers. They also know how to use
the computer for different reasons.
From an academic viewpoint, children have to learn how to
use this new invention. For instance, when I was in college,
many students used to bring their laptops to class. They used
to take notes, do research and share information. They wrote
their essays, made presentations and created useful lists.
Children who can use the computer when they are young have
more confidence than other children.
From a professional perspective, the computer is found in
every kind of office. Today, employers will still hire people
who cannot use computers and give them computer training.
But tomorrow, companies will expect people to have these
skills already. As a result, by encouraging children to use the
computer for a short time every day, parents are preparing
their children for future jobs.
In conclusion, it is clear that computers are now a part of our
regular life. Children who can use computers easily and
confidently will do better in the future.

Sample IELTS Essay 2 "Salaries of Sports Athletes"

Sample IELTS Essay 3 "Gap Year"

This is a sample IELTS essay. You should spend about 40

minutes on this task. Remember, it doesn't matter if you can
write an essay like this if it takes you one hour -- you need to
do it in about 40 minutes. Be sure to check out our other free
sample IELTS essays, too.

This is a sample IELTS essay. You should spend about 40

minutes on this task. Remember, it doesn't matter if you can
write an essay like this if it takes you one hour -- you need to
do it in about 40 minutes. Be sure to check out our other free
sample IELTS essays, too.

Successful sports professionals can earn

money than people in other important
people think this is fully justified while
unfair. Discuss both these views and give

a great deal more

professions. Some
others think it is
your opinion.

In some countries, young people are encouraged to work or

travel for a year between finishing high school and starting
university
studies.
Discuss
the
advantages
and
disadvantages for young people who decide to do this.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant

examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant

examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Write at least 250 words.

The world of sports is a multimillion dollar industry. Around

the globe, people flock to sporting events or watch their
favourite teams faithfully each week on television. As a result,
professional sports athletes receive huge salaries well above,
for example, those of doctors, lawyers, teachers or social
workers. There is some debate about whether such
outrageously high salaries are justified.

Taking a gap year off between high school and university has
become a popular option among many young people. This
time off provides a break after many years of formal study.
Some students use this time to travel around the world, others
volunteer and still others begin working. The idea behind each
of these activities is to do something hands-on and refreshing,
which enables young people to learn more about themselves
and their place in the world around them.

On the one hand, sport is viewed as a professional career, in

which the top players should rightly earn high salaries. Athletes
train rigorously from an early age to become peak performers
in their field. They face tremendous pressure in each and every
game, match or competition. Their personal lives are
compromised and they lose all privacy. At the same time, their
strong achievements bring honour and attention, not only to
themselves, but also to their teams, schools, cities or countries.
On the other hand, various professions contribute to making
our world run smoothly. Doctors put in at least ten years of
grueling study and internship; their work saves lives. Teachers
educate and inspire young people to be responsible citizens:
their efforts produce the citizens of tomorrow. Social workers
rescue individuals facing physical, mental and psychological
challenges: their intervention creates safer societies.
Yet, professionals in the fields above usually struggle to get by,
despite their meaningful and critical contribution to the world.
In my view, paying enormous salaries to sportspeople is
unnecessary. We need to reconsider our social priorities and
eliminate the great disparity in income received by diverse
professionals. By doing so, we can build societies in which each
one feels valued, appreciated and appropriately compensated
for their own vocation or specialization.
(273 words)

The benefits of taking a year off are plentiful. On a personal

level, students who travel away from home develop their
independence and self-confidence. On a cultural level, they
learn about viewpoints, traditions and perspectives different
from their own. Professionally, students get a taste of diverse
workplaces, which might inspire a possible career interest.
Intellectually, they examine their own beliefs and ideas in
relation to those of others in a new environment. All these
advantages combine to make a strong case for taking the oneyear break.
Nevertheless, there are also dangers involved in taking such a
long break. Academically, the main drawback is that students
can get sidetracked from their studies. A year is a long time and
students could lose the good study habits and sense of
discipline they had when they were in a formal academic
structure. If they begin working, they could also be deluded
into thinking that theyre making a lot of money. They could
lose the benefit of college or university education and the
chance to earn a higher income all their lives.
In conclusion, whether to take a year-long break or not is an
individual decision. Each young person should consider his or
her motivations carefully and decide on whats most desirable.
Time is a precious resource and people of all ages, including
young people, should treat it with respect.
(305 words)

Sample IELTS Essay 4 "Universities & Gender Issues"

Sample IELTS Essay 5 "Good Parents"

This is a sample IELTS essay. You should spend about 40

minutes on this task. Remember, it doesn't matter if you can
write an essay like this if it takes you one hour -- you need to
do it in about 40 minutes. Be sure to check out our other free
sample IELTS essays, too.

This is a sample IELTS essay. You should spend about 40

minutes on this task. Remember, it doesn't matter if you can
write an essay like this if it takes you one hour -- you need to
do it in about 40 minutes. Be sure to check out our other free
sample IELTS essays, too.

Universities should accept equal numbers of men and

women in every subject.

The rising levels of congestion and air pollution found in

most of the world cities can be attributed directly to the
rapidly increasing number of private cars in use. In order to
reverse this decline in the quality of life in cities, attempts
must be made to encourage people to use their cars less and
public transport more. Discuss possible ways to encourage
the use of public transport.

To what extent do you agree with this statement?

You should write at least 250 words.
Gender issues have been increasing in importance through the
centuries. In almost every sphere of human activity, there has
been a movement towards greater equality between men and
women. Although I agree that universities should open their
doors to all students alike, in my view, they need not set a fixed
limit on the number of men and women they accept in each
subject. The bases for my views are psychological and personal.
Psychologically-speaking, men and women are simply different,
though they have the same potential for greatness. For
example, women tend to be more intuitive, sensitive to others
and caring. This means they may feel drawn, on the basis of
their personalities, to certain kinds of professions such as
teaching, nursing, or psychology, even if all fields are open to
them. In such a context, it is best for universities to choose the
best applicants, regardless of gender.
Personally, students need to discover their true calling. This is
an individual matter and is not influenced by the universities
reserving seats for men or women. For example, if the majority
of women shy away from math or engineering, perhaps it has
to do with their upbringing, which has influenced their
interests. The universities will not be able to reverse this trend,
though they should always look out for the most qualified
candidates.
In conclusion, equality cannot be forced upon people not in
the area of education, employment or family life. Equality is
about having choices and those who prove themselves capable
will qualify for university, regardless of gender. It is only right
that universities reflect and respect these free and natural
choices being exercised by their students.
(277 words)

To what extent do you agree with this statement? You should

write at least 250 words.
In a world of increasing environmental awareness improved
public transport represents the way of the future. Although
people do enjoy the convenience and privacy of traveling in
their own private vehicles, in my opinion they may choose
public transport if it fulfills certain conditions. These
conditions fall into three broad categories: attitudinal, financial
and logistical.
From an attitudinal perspective, people must first be convinced
of the benefits of public transportation. An educational or
public relations campaign must be launched to sensitize those
who might have disregarded this possibility before. People
should be familiarized with the environmental, social and
personal benefits for present and future generations. This is
one step.
From a financial perspective, public transportation must be a
clear and viable benefit to consumers. In other words, it must
be more affordable than driving to work every day. For
example, if people know that by using bus and subway, they
can save enough money to take a free holiday each year, many
more individuals would be persuaded to travel in this way. This
is another critical step.
From a logistical perspective, public transportation should be
convenient for commuters. City planners and transport
officials must ensure that frequent and reliable public
transportation is available for each citizen. For people to make
the habit of traveling by bus or subway, they must know that
they will be able to get to various places on time. Transport
vehicles must be well maintained, subway and bus drivers
should be customer-oriented and service must be punctual and
efficient. This is an additional important step.
In conclusion, through a multi-pronged approach, it is possible
to increase the use of public transportation. City officials and
politicians can lead the way by utilizing these forms of
transport themselves and bringing about change through
personal example. Then, more citizens will follow suit and we
may all hope to live in a cleaner, less polluted environment.
(316 words)

Sample IELTS Essay #7 High School Success

Sample IELTS Essay #8 Foreign Languages in Kindergarten

This is a sample IELTS essay. You should spend about 40

minutes on this task. Remember, it doesn't matter if you can
write an essay like this if it takes you one hour -- you need to
do it in about 40 minutes. Be sure to check out our other free
sample IELTS essays, too.

This is a sample IELTS essay. You should spend about 40

minutes on this task. Remember, it doesn't matter if you can
write an essay like this if it takes you one hour -- you need to
do it in about 40 minutes. Be sure to check out our other free
sample IELTS essays, too.

What factors are related to academic success in high school

students?

Foreign language instruction should begin in kindergarten.

Discuss.

Write at least 250 words.

Write at least 250 words.

High school is a critical time in the life of young people. On

the one hand, teenagers are eager to enjoy their freedom and
independence. On the other hand, they must be disciplined
enough to keep their priorities straight. In my opinion, three
social institutions impact high school students the most at this
vulnerable time the family, peer group and school.

According to a famous saying, The limits of my language are

the limits of my world. Indeed, the ability to speak several
languages is considered one of the hallmarks of a cultured
person. From this perspective, foreign language instruction
should begin as early as possible in order to achieve near-native
fluency. The reasons behind this approach are intellectual,
social and professional.

First, the family plays the central role by providing the

backdrop in a young persons life. A positive family
environment provides love, support and encouragement for
the student to do his/her best. Simultaneously, the family aims
to instill discipline and ambition in the child. The influence and
expectations of family members remain paramount at this time
and throughout a young person's life.
Second, as a child turns into a teenager, the peer group begins
to play an increasingly important role in his/her life. The
friendships one develops at this highly sensitive stage can affect
ones attitude to studies, authority, society and the world. In the
right company, young people can get involved in positive
activities that support their academic performance. With the
wrong crowd, teenagers could develop a host of unhealthy and
dangerous habits which impact not only their grades but all
aspects of their lives.
Lastly, the school itself is a deciding factor in the student's
academic success. A variety of elements determine how the
students feel about school: the teachers, the staff, the facilities,
the subjects, the text books, the method of instruction and
more. All of these have a significant impact on the young
persons motivation to excel.
In conclusion, high school success is the product of various
influences. We are all fortunate that, aside from a few
unfortunate exceptions, the majority of students worldwide
aspire to do well and grow up to become active and healthy
participants in the world around them.
(309 words)

Intellectually, learning a foreign language at a young age

enables children to develop their brain. At this age, childrens
minds are like sponges and their capacities are limitless. They
have less inhibition or biases against learning different subjects.
They can learn one, two or three languages without confusion;
it would only serve to expand their minds. Therefore, it is ideal
to start teaching a foreign language in kindergarten.
Socially, learning a foreign language enables the young child to
enter a wider cultural world. By learning to speak, think and
understand a different language, the child develops greater
cross-cultural awareness. This critical ability enables the child
to make friends with, identify with and empathize with others
who speak the additional language.
Professionally, by learning a foreign language in kindergarten,
the child expands his/her future career horizons. In todays
increasingly globalized world, bilingual and multilingual
individuals are in high demand. The child who achieves this
fluency naturally and easily at a young age already has an edge
over others in the job market.
In summary, numerous benefits flow from teaching a foreign
language from kindergarten. The child will most likely grow up
to thank those who made such a learning experience possible.

Sample TOEFL Essay #1

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement:
People should sometimes do things that they do not enjoy
doing.

SAMPLE TOEFL ESSAYS

Learning to write well is a skill, like any other. This skill is
important not only on your TOEFL exam, but also in your
academic and professional career. The TOEFL Writing
section consists of two parts:

Integrated Writing, which includes reading,

listening and then writing a summary/
comparison piece of 250 word in 20 minutes
Independent Writing, which involves writing a
four to five-paragraph essay of 300-350 words in
30 minutes

The following sample TOEFL essays illustrate how to get a

high score on the independent writing section of the iBT.
By reading through the essays, you can learn how to:

develop any topic into a well-organized, logical

answer
use synonyms to paraphrase the question
use a variety of sentence structures & grammatical
forms
begin with a simple, strong introduction
create body paragraphs that flow logically
develop unity by linking the body paragraphs
end with a memorable conclusion

Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.

Sample
TOEFL
essay
answer:
Life is challenging. In order to be happy and successful, we
need to prepare ourselves on many fronts. Although
participating in enjoyable activities is always desirable, in my
view it is also necessary at times to do things we do not enjoy.
The bases for my view are personal, social and financial.
Personally, doing things we dont care for builds character and
helps us mature. For instance, when parents have their first
baby they are forced to give up their freedom in order to look
after the child. There are times when parents barely get enough
sleep and still have to get up and go to work in the morning.
Similarly, when students are in school and university, they need
to spend a lot of time studying. In spite of being tempted to go
out with friends and attend parties, those who have self-control
and keep their priorities straight are the ones who get high
grades. Through such life experiences people become stronger,
wiser and more responsible.
From a social perspective, we live in an interdependent world
which imposes its obligations on us. Each person belongs to
diverse social groups and plays various social roles. Each of us
has to attend birthday parties, weddings and funerals to show
we care about our fellow human beings. Participating in events
for the sake of others teaches us to go beyond our own selfish
needs and to share in the joys and sorrows of others.
Financially-speaking, people need to work - and spend - to
keep the local, national and international economy growing.
We need to support our own family in particular and our
community in general. In fact, most of us work many more
hours than we would like to work. What propels us to continue
working is our financial needs, commitments and obligations.
Only in this way are we able to live comfortable lifestyles and
save for our retirement days.
In conclusion, life places huge demands on us. By participating
in a wide variety of activities, both pleasant and unpleasant, we
can discover more about our unique selves and live fuller lives.
351 words

Sample TOEFL Essay #2

Sample TOEFL Essay #3

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement:

Many students choose to attend schools or universities

outside their home countries. Why do some students
study abroad? Use specific reasons and details to support
your answer.

Only people who earn a lot of money are successful.

Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.
Sample
TOEFL
essay
answer:
It is said that money makes the world go round. We spend the
majority of our waking hours at work - earning a living,
providing for our families and saving for our retirement.
Although money no doubt plays a critical role in determining
the quality and nature of our lifestyles, in my opinion, the size
of ones paycheque is not a measure of ones success in life.
The bases of my views are philosophical, social and personal.
Philosophically, success can be defined in myriad ways. For
some, success is an external concept to be measured in terms
of high income, huge bank balances, fancy cars, expensive
mansions, luxurious holidays and so on. However, in my view,
success is a reflection of internal human qualities, such as
compassion, kindness, honesty, understanding and more. By
this definition, the mere fact of earning a high income does not
determine or define success.
Socially, success depends on how we treat other human beings.
Do we regard others with respect or do we impose our will on
them? Are we mindful of their needs and desires or do we
behave selfishly? Do we encourage and support our friends,
family and communities or do we insist they only follow the
path we think best? It is clear that a critical aspect of success
lies in the answers to such questions for they reveal the quality
of relationships we share with our fellow human beings.
Personally, success can only be self-defined. My idea of success
may not be the same as another persons vision. This is as it
should be. Each of us is a product of diverse social, cultural,
economic, political, religious and ideological influences. When
we add to that mix the free will that each of us exercises, we
can understand clearly how each of us fashions his / her own
aspirations for what we consider to be success in our own lives.
In conclusion, success is a concept which can be interpreted in
a million different ways.Each individuals version adds to the
richness of our world and makes our planet a more delightful,
amazing and colourful place to live.
355 words

Sample
TOEFL
essay
answer:
Pursuing higher studies abroad has become a popular choice
for students from around the globe. Each year, young people
spend thousands of dollars to travel, live and study in
universities, colleges and schools overseas. In my view, this
life-changing decision is based on the premise that education is
an investment in ones future. My opinion is based on
academic, professional and personal reasons.
In my opinion, the primary reason for studying abroad is
academic. Students wish to reap the benefits associated with
attending a reputable educational institute. In addition, gaining
admission to prestigious college or university is often regarded
as an achievement in itself. The quality of the academic
programs, the level of specialized instruction and the
availability of professional resources are all high. It is no
wonder that students long to graduate from well-known
institutes.
From a professional viewpoint, graduating from foreign
universities is often a gateway to a successful career. The
connection is direct and provides strong motivation for young
people to study abroad. The hope is that such graduates have
an added advantage over their peers in a highly competitive job
market. In some cases, top students from prestigious
universities land job offers even before completing their
studies. Furthermore, well-known corporations vie to attract
the fresh new talent, who will help achieve corporate
profitability in the future.
From a personal angle, studying abroad enables young people
to mature quickly and develop independence. For instance,
joining a foreign academic institution is often the first
experience students have of living away from parents, siblings
and friends. In ones home country, this strong nexus provides
support, assistance and guidance. However, while abroad,
students must overcome the initial homesickness and culture
shock, conform to a different teaching style, adapt to
unfamiliar social and cultural expectations and develop
proficiency in a new language. These challenging tasks enable
youngsters to emerge with greater maturity and selfconfidence.
In conclusion, the desire to study abroad is based on several
concrete benefits for students in terms of the present and the
future. This is why most students would gladly accept an
opportunity to go abroad and would work quite diligently to
turn this opportunity into a resounding success.
362 words

Sample TOEFL Essay #4

Sample TOEFL Essay #5

Some people think that family is the most important

influence on young adults. Other people think that friends
are the most important influence in young adults. Which
view do you agree with? Use examples to support your
position.

Some people believe that university students should be

required to attend classes. Other believe that going p
classes should be optional. Which point og view do you
agree with? Use specific reasons and details to explain
your answer.

Sample
TOEFL
essay
answer:
As social beings, we are naturally influenced by those we meet
in the course of our lives. This is particularly true for young
people, whose character and personality are still malleable.
Although friends play a central role in the lives of teenagers, in
my opinion, it is the family which has a greater impact on
young people. My view is based on psychological, intellectual
and financial reasons.

Sample
TOEFL
essay
answer:
Going to university is a coveted goal for most students around
the world. Many parents dream of their children having the
opportunity to receive a university education, as a gateway to a
successful future. Although it is possible to receive a degree
without attending classes, in my view, attendance plays a
critical part in the university experience. The bases for my
views are educational, social and intellectual.

Psychologically, the family is the central grounding factor for a

young person, because the parents, brothers and sisters are the
ones who actually love him or her. It is through thousands of
life situations and family discussions that norms, values,
customs, traditions and expectations are passed on to the
youngster. The depth of relationship, developed over the years
through shared joys and sorrows, place family members in an
incomparably close bond which cannot easily be replicated by
friends or anyone else.

From an academic standpoint, attending classes simply enables

students to learn more. After all, professors do not simply
parrot what is written in university textbooks; they add to this
knowledge from their own professional experience, reading
and research. This provides an opportunity for students to
receive key perspectives, as well as relevant and up to date
information in their specialized fields. Since acquiring
knowledge and developing critical thinking skills are important
goals of higher education, attendance at classes should be
considered a mandatory requirement for graduation.

Intellectually, the family impacts the young persons ability to

think. Parents create the intellectual climate in the home.
Whether children develop the habit of reading, studying hard
or striving to achieve their goals depends largely on the parents'
example. Whether youngsters agree or disagree with their
parents political or religious views, the family remains a
reference point against which young people develop their
individuality. In Asian cultures, where respect for elders is an
important value, the family plays an even more central role in
shaping the young person's world view.
Financially, the family influences the youngster by providing a
certain type of lifestyle. Home, school, friends, hobbies,
clothes, holidays and material possessions - all of these are
impacted by the family's prosperity. The same holds true for
the youngster growing up in a poor family- a totally different
reality will surround that young person. No friend could have
this powerful or tangible an influence on the teenager.
In conclusion, though friends can have a strong influence on a
young person, it is finally the family which provides the more
powerful backdrop in a young persons life. The family's
influence is permanent, unforgettable and inescapable.

Socially, university life offers young people the opportunity to

form meaningful friendships, relationships and connections,
some of which last for life. One can make good friends or even
meet a future life partner while in college or university. In
addition, ones classmates may become the movers and
shakers of tomorrows corporations and industries. These
important contacts are also made while attending university
classes, studying and partying together.
Lastly, from an intellectual perspective, a student can gain
tremendously by matching wits with other bright students from
around the world. In the context of classes, students can
discuss issues, exchange views, explore ideas, solve problems
and develop cross-cultural skills through interaction with
international students. This can be a critical experience that
helps students define themselves and their political and
ideological place in the world.
In summary, attending university classes benefits students in
myriad ways. Broadly speaking, it enables students to make the
best of their years in university. Therefore, it should be
regarded as a desirable and meaningful means to achieving
various important life goals.
326 words

Sample TOEFL Essay #6

Sample TOEFL Essay #7

Some people think that children should begin their formal

education at an early age and should most of their time on
school studies. Others believe that young children should
spend most of their time playing. Compare these two
views. Which view do you agree with? Why?

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement?

Sample
TOEFL
essay
answer:
Childhood is one of the most important and memorable
periods of our lives. We come into the world innocent and
unaware and in just a few short years make great physical and
mental progress. Although play is an important component of
our young lives, in my view, there are significant benefits to be
gained from beginning formal education at an early age. My
view is based on intellectual and social reasons.
Intellectually, the period from birth to six years is the most
significant for brain growth. A child who is surrounded by a
rich multi-sensory environment develops infinitely more
connection between brain cells, which are the basis of what we
call intelligence. In this connection, the process of learning
to read is of particular significance because it has such a strong
positive influence on neural development. Although parents
can provide this early intellectual stimulation, in most cases
working parents find it difficult to do so. This strengthens the
case for enrolling children in a formal education system, which
can provide the necessary resources and trained personnel to
bring out the best in the child.
Socially, being in a school environment teaches children both
how to behave themselves and also how to get along with
other children and adults. These lessons in human behaviour
are as important as the formal subjects a child must study. By
learning how to follow rules, take turns and be respectful a
child becomes a part of the social nexus to which we all
belong. The formal academic experience, in an objective
context, away from the family structure, also satisfies the
childs growing sense of independence. Most children often
play school in any case, particularly if they have older
siblings.
In conclusion, early education offers children a host of benefits
at different levels. A child can always play after coming home;
in the meantime, the school experience sets the child on a path
to success and self-confidence in a competitive, demanding
world.
326 words

Children should be required to help with household tasks

as soon as they are able.
Use specific reasons and examples to support your
answer.
Sample
TOEFL
essay
answer:
We are born into a complex, demanding world. From infancy
to adulthood lies a period in which we must prepare for the
responsibilities and obligations of communal living. Although
childhood should be a period of relative freedom, in my view it
also needs to provide a strong preparation for the future. From
this perspective, assigning household tasks to children is
beneficial from a personal, social and economic point of view.
Personally, children need to learn the value of responsibility.
Parents should involve children in household chores such as
dusting furniture, raking leaves, washing dishes and so on. By
including youngsters in this way, parents acknowledge the
childrens ability to contribute meaningfully to the smooth
running of the home. Whats more, such tasks teach them
about being reliable, working efficiently and developing
integrity. This early training strengthens their self-images and
self-confidence.
Socially, young people need to be absorbed into the social
nexus. While developing independence is a desirable trait, it is
equally important to realize that we live in an interdependent
world. Our decisions, choices and actions affect others around
us. When a child sets the table he / she not only learns how to
create an aesthetically pleasing dining environment, but also
that guests are to be honoured and appreciated. Such
experiences are a part of the socialization process whereby
social and cultural norms are passed on to future generations.
Economically, children need to understand the connection
between effort and reward. Initially, when children are young
the compensation for their efforts may be in the form of a
warm hug, a word of praise or a public compliment. Later,
parents may link pocket money to the performance of
household duties. This arrangement allows youngsters to
realize that by exchanging their free time for work, they can
earn money to buy the things they like. In this way, young
people develop a strong sense of the financial realities that
await them.
In conclusion, participating in household duties and chores is
beneficial at myriad levels. Most important, it enables children
and youngsters to understand the philosophical equation that
to receive, we must also give.
351 words