Taking a Gap Year Before University

woman wearing backpack walking on road
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on September 21, 2020 and last updated on July 13, 2023

The topic of taking a gap year before university serves as an excellent conversation topic for English learners as it encourages them to express their opinions, share personal experiences and discuss future plans. Exploring this topic allows learners to enhance their vocabulary related to education, personal development and travel. Additionally, discussing the benefits and challenges of taking a gap year promotes the development of critical thinking and argumentation skills.

Engaging in conversations about this topic enables learners to practice expressing ideas, analysing pros and cons, and building persuasive arguments, thereby improving their overall fluency and communicative competence in English.

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

About Taking a Gap Year Before University

Taking a gap year before university has become an increasingly popular choice for many students worldwide. It refers to a period of time, typically a year, during which students take a break from formal education to engage in activities such as travel, volunteering or gaining work experience.

This gap year provides an opportunity for personal growth, self-reflection and exploration before embarking on higher education. It allows students to broaden their perspectives, develop new skills and discover their passions.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • gap (noun)
  • drawback (noun)
  • spend (verb)
  • take off (phrasal verb)
  • beneficial (adjective)
  • travel (verb)
  • break (noun)

Conversation Questions

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  • Have you heard of the concept of taking a gap year before university?
  • Have you ever considered taking a gap year before university? Why or why not?
  • What are some possible activities you could do during a gap year?
  • How do you think taking a gap year can benefit you personally?
  • Do you think a gap year can help you gain valuable skills and experiences?
  • What are some potential challenges or drawbacks of taking a gap year?
  • How do you think taking a gap year can impact your future university studies?
  • Are there any specific countries or places you would like to visit during a gap year?
  • How can taking a gap year help you explore your career interests?
  • Do you think taking a gap year can help you become more independent and mature?
  • Should universities actively encourage students to take a gap year?
  • Is a gap year more beneficial for personal development or career prospects?
  • Should students be financially responsible for their gap year activities?
  • Does taking a gap year increase or decrease the chances of dropping out of university?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.