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IELTS vocabulary

IELTS Vocabulary for Education

Education is one of the most common IELTS topics in Writing Task 2 and Speaking Parts 1 and 3. These words and phrases help you discuss schools, universities and learning accurately.

Schools and teaching

Word or phraseMeaningExample
curriculumthe subjects taught in a school or courseThe curriculum should include practical skills as well as theory.
compulsory educationschooling that children are required to attendCompulsory education ends at sixteen in many countries.
class sizethe number of students in a classSmaller class sizes allow teachers to give more attention to each student.
tuition feesmoney paid for teachingHigh tuition fees discourage some talented students from applying.
peer pressureinfluence from people of the same ageTeenagers are often affected by peer pressure at school.
rote learninglearning by repeating facts without understandingRote learning may help in exams but does not develop critical thinking.

Universities and careers

Word or phraseMeaningExample
higher educationstudy at university levelHigher education should be accessible to all who have the ability.
vocational trainingeducation for a specific jobVocational training prepares young people for skilled work.
graduatea person who has finished a degreeMany graduates struggle to find jobs related to their field.
employabilityhow likely someone is to be hiredInternships improve students' employability.
academic achievementsuccess in studiesParental support has a strong effect on academic achievement.
lifelong learninglearning throughout your lifeLifelong learning helps workers adapt to changing technology.

Learning and skills

Word or phraseMeaningExample
critical thinkingthe ability to analyse and judge informationSchools should teach critical thinking, not only facts.
hands-on experiencepractical experienceHands-on experience makes science lessons more memorable.
distance learningstudying remotely, often onlineDistance learning gives flexibility to working adults.
self-disciplinethe ability to control yourself and work without supervisionOnline courses demand a high level of self-discipline.
extracurricular activitiesactivities outside normal lessonsExtracurricular activities build teamwork and confidence.
literacythe ability to read and writeRaising literacy rates has been a priority for many governments.

How to use these words well

  • Use collocations (class size, higher education) rather than single words.
  • Do not memorise long lists; choose ten words and use them in a real essay this week.
  • Check that each word fits your sentence: “graduate” is a person, “graduation” is the event.

Study guides

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