Topic 1: Some commentators feel that grandparents should live together with their children and grandchildren, while others say that elderly people should be encouraged to live independently. Consider the possible arguments on both sides of this debate, and reach your own conclusion.
Model Essay:
The issue of whether grandparents should live with their extended families is partly a question of the
traditions in different cultures or nationalities. However, the question of affordability also plays an increasing part, and so this debate is rather complex, as we shall see.
On the one hand, those who support the idea of grandparents living with their children point to the higher level of emotional support which all family members may receive in such situations, for example in times of crisis such as bereavement. Furthermore, it is also true that personal security may be increased, offering protection against such problems as accidents or even robbery. Finally, it seems that extended family life will also be considerably less costly, for instance with lower food and utility bills, meaning that enjoyment of life may be higher.
By contrast, supporters of grandparents living independently often state that elderly people should be encouraged to be as self-reliant as possible, as this boosts their self-esteem and may guard against mental decline in old age. They also say, with some merit, that many younger families these days do not have the housing space, or indeed the spare time, which is necessary to care properly for older members. As a last point, it is also true that many grandparents prefer to see their grandchildren on a less frequent basis (as opposed to every day), making these visits more special and cherished for all concerned.
Overall, it appears to me that the stronger argument is in favour of grandparents living independently, with all the advantages of self-reliance and separate space. This is provided that their health and finances allow them to continue living separately, without risk or the fear of isolation.
(282 words)
Examiner’s notes
This is a clearly structured and logical Opinion>Discussion essay, which would certainly achieve Band 9. The candidate clarifies at the start that the essay will ‘debate’ the discussion, and the main body emphasizes the two opposing views with helpful linking phrases (‘On the one hand . . . By contrast . . .’) The main body has three clear ideas on each side, and the writer uses a variety of phrases to report the two aspects (‘Supporters point to . . . state . . . say, with some merit . . .’) The use of conjunctions to show the transition from one idea to the next inside each paragraph is excellent (‘Furthermore . . . Finally . . . They also say . . . As a last point . . .’) The candidate avoids emotion or excessive personalization by using ‘It seems . . . It appears that . . .’ which is a strong feature of academic writing. The conclusion is clearly introduced (‘Overall . . .’) and recaps briefly on the debate, adding a ‘proviso’ with ‘This is provided that . . .’ which makes the opinion balanced and more complex. The language used is formal/academic but also modern (I noted in particular ‘bereavement, utility, boost, merit, self-reliance.’) I have the impression of a well-organized candidate, who can use the key elements of academic writing to discuss an issue logically and very clearly.