You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Writing about the following topic:

 These days, more and more people are going to other countries for a significant period of time, either to find a job or to study. There are clearly many benefits to doing this, but people who live abroad can also face some difficulties.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living and working in a foreign country.

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

Write at least 250 words.

Skim the model essay below to find the main points, then complete this table about moving away.

advantages

examples

disadvantages

Examples

 

Nowadays, taking a year out to live or study abroad is becoming increasingly popular. For many people, especially young adults, the chance to spend an extended period of time overseas is an attractive one. However, there are both pros and cons to deciding to do this, in this essay. I will discuss some of the reasons why moving abroad is so popular and some of the challenges to be overcome.

 

Let’s begin by looking at the advantages of moving away. One of the main positives of heading overseas is that it broadens your horizons. What I mean by this is that you have the chance to meet people from different cultural backgrounds and learn to cope with foreign customs and food. This can make you more rounded as a person.

 

Secondly, moving abroad can lead to a better quality of life. Take British people for example. Thousands of people from the UK move to Spain and Australia every year These countries have warmer climates and encourage a better work-life balance in addition, by living overseas, you can gain qualifications and language skills, which may improve promotion prospects on your return.

 

Turning to the other side of the argument, culture shock is a major problem. Many people who take a year out find it hard to cope with the language barrier, the food, and general cultural differences. This often leads to homesickness and in some cases a sense of isolation.

 

Another issue is that it can be difficult to start a new life from scratch. In other words, when you move abroad, you have to make new friends and find your place in the community. This process takes time and can be especially challenging if there is also a language barrier to deal with.

 

All things considered, starting life in a foreign country is never easy. You need to weigh up the pros of a better lifestyle, weather, and so on, and the cons of culture shock and language barrier. Personally, I believe the benefits in terms of personal growth eventually outweigh any negatives.

 

THANKS FOR READING: Model essay: Advantages and disadvantages