“One compelling reason to fund universities publicly is that it widens access for talented students from low-income families. In Bangladesh, for example, capable students often abandon higher study because of cost, depriving the economy of skilled graduates. Removing that barrier would therefore expand the national talent pool.”

Why Band 8: a single clear idea, developed with a relevant example, precise linking (“One compelling reason…”, “therefore”) and accurate complex grammar.

“Overall, car use increased markedly over the two decades, while public-transport use fell before recovering slightly. In 2000, cars accounted for roughly 40% of journeys, a figure that climbed to almost 60% by 2020, whereas bus travel more than halved before stabilising.”

Why Band 8: a clear overview of the main trend, accurate data selection and comparison, and controlled trend language.