IELTS Writing Task 2/ Essay Topics with sample answer.

IELTS Essay # 1159 - Living in an apartment instead of a university dormitory

IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people believe that living in an apartment instead of a university dormitory has many advantages while others say that it has many disadvantages.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living in an apartment instead of a university dormitory.
What type of accommodation would you prefer? Why? 

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

You should write at least 250 words.


Sample Answer 1:  [Advantages + Disadvantages + I would prefer to live in the university dormitory.]
After getting admitted to a university, students need to decide where to live, and this choice severely affects their academic performance and student life. While many disciples choose university halls, others opt to live in an apartment, and it has both benefits and demerits. This essay examines both advantages and disadvantages of living in a separate apartment from living in a university residence. Personally, I would prefer to live in a university residence.

Living in an apartment offers many distinctive advantages, and privacy is one of them. While a student in a dormitory has little privacy, someone in an apartment enjoys far better privacy and freedom. Learners who live in an independent house can choose a quiet neighbourhood, and this environment is conducive to studying attentively. Furthermore, living in an apartment makes students more independent, and they can choose a better diet. For instance, one of my cousins moved to an apartment after living in a university dormitory for about six months, and he did so because he hated the food offered in his university canteen.

Having said that, living in an apartment rather than a university dormitory has some visible disadvantages. First and foremost is the cost. In my country, living in an apartment is quite expensive while the university offers cheap accommodation. The food is also cheaper in the university dining halls. Second, renting an apartment in my city is hard for a student. The landlords prefer families over students. Furthermore, the daily commuting is convenient from the university halls while not so easy from the apartments away from the university campus.

Even though there are many benefits of living in an apartment over living in a university hall, I would still prefer to live in the university dormitory. The primary reason for me to be able to attend my classes without commuting through bad traffics.

In conclusion, both independent apartments and university residents offer advantages and disadvantages to university students. I would prefer to live in a university hall but I believe students should choose this important aspect based on their own preferences and budget.


Model Answer 2:  [Advantages + Disadvantages + I would prefer to live in an apartment.]
Living in an apartment or a university dormitory is a common debate among college students. While both options have their advantages and disadvantages, personal preferences and priorities ultimately dictate the choice of accommodation. I would personally prefer to live in an apartment to enjoy better privacy and flexibility.

One of the main advantages of living in an apartment is the freedom it provides. Unlike a dormitory, apartments offer more privacy and flexibility. Individuals can decorate and furnish their apartments to their liking and can invite guests at their convenience. Additionally, apartments provide a more independent lifestyle, enabling individuals to cook their meals, do their laundry and manage their finances independently. The disadvantages of living in an apartment include higher costs and additional responsibilities. Renting an apartment can be more expensive than living in a dormitory, and it also requires individuals to pay for utilities and other expenses. 

On the other hand, university dormitories have their own advantages. Dormitories offer a strong sense of community and provide an opportunity for individuals to socialize and make new friends easily. Dormitories often host events and activities, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. Moreover, dormitories are usually located on or near campus, making it easier for students to attend classes and access other campus facilities. However, university dormitories have their disadvantages as well. Dormitories are often crowded, noisy, and lack privacy. Dormitories may also have strict rules and regulations, limiting the individual's freedom and independence. 

Personally, I would choose an apartment to live in rather than the university dormitory because that would offer me more privacy, allowing me to have my own space and freedom. Additionally, an apartment would provide me with greater independence, as I would be able to cook my own meals and have more control over my living situation.

In conclusion, the choice of accommodation depends on the individual's personal preferences and priorities. While apartments offer more independence, privacy, and flexibility, university dormitories provide a strong sense of community and social opportunities. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide which option suits them better. But when I would need to decide, I would pick an apartment.

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Hu He
I REALLY wish you clearly labelled the TYPE of essay that each model represents!!!