IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1457 - Schools should only offer subjects that are beneficial to students’ future
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Schools should only offer subjects that are beneficial to students’ future career success. Other subjects, such as music and sports, are not important.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1: [Disagreement]
The debate surrounding the curriculum in schools often revolves around whether educational institutions should solely focus on subjects deemed directly beneficial to students' future careers, disregarding others such as music and sports. While some advocate for a curriculum exclusively tailored to career-related subjects, I firmly disagree with this notion.
One primary reason why I disagree with teaching only career-oriented subjects in school is that neglecting subjects like music and sports undermines the holistic development of students. Music, for example, fosters creativity, discipline, and emotional expression, while sports instil teamwork, leadership, and physical health - skills invaluable in various professional arenas. If students are taught only science and technology-related subjects and are never exposed to subjects like music, sports and so on, they are deprived of a well-rounded education and perhaps fail to benefit society with their work.
Moreover, an education system solely focused on career-oriented subjects neglects the diverse talents and interests of students. Not all individuals are inclined towards science and technology-related fields; some excel in creative or athletic domains. A well-rounded education that includes music and sports encourages a balanced development of cognitive, emotional, and physical aspects, nurturing students' diverse talents and potential. It is evident that schools that offer such well-rounded education often create leaders in sports, arts, scientists and mathematicians.
In conclusion, while career-focused subjects are undeniably essential, dismissing the significance of music and sports in education is short-sighted. I believe that equipping students with different types of subjects including arts and sports is essential not only for their future careers but also for a well-rounded and enriched life.
Model Answer 2: [Agreement]
In today's increasingly competitive world, education plays an essential role and some claim that schools should teach science and technology-related subjects to learners and ignore music, sports and arts that are not directly related to jobs they will likely have in the future. I agree that schools should primarily offer subjects that directly contribute to career success, as these provide tangible benefits and better align students’ academic experiences with real-world demands.
Firstly, focusing on career-oriented subjects enables students to acquire specialised knowledge and skills that significantly enhance their employability. In an ever-evolving job market, proficiency in disciplines such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics, business, and language skills are highly sought after by employers. By allocating resources and instructional time to these areas, educational institutions can ensure students are effectively prepared for future professional challenges. For instance, graduates with expertise in computer programming or data analysis are in high demand, commanding lucrative salaries and experiencing stable career growth.
Secondly, concentrating solely on practical subjects can streamline educational experiences, leading to improved academic outcomes. Often, students spend valuable time on peripheral activities such as music or sports, diverting their attention from core academic competencies. While recreational activities have their benefits, they can be pursued as extracurricular interests outside of formal schooling hours. By prioritising subjects with clear vocational relevance, schools facilitate a more focused educational environment, ultimately enhancing academic performance and future career success. For example, educational systems like those in Singapore place significant emphasis on academic rigour, resulting in graduates with excellent employment prospects.
In conclusion, given the demands of the contemporary job market and the need for specialised knowledge, it is essential for educational institutions to prioritise subjects directly beneficial to students' professional futures. Though subjects like music and sports offer personal enrichment, they should be considered supplementary and pursued outside the formal educational structure.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay question:
Schools should only offer subjects that are beneficial to students’ future career success. Other subjects, such as music and sports, are not important.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Essay type:
Opinion Essay (Agree/ Disagree)
The main question of this essay:
Do you agree or disagree that schools should only focus on career-oriented subjects and drop others like music and sports?
Arguments in favour of prioritising career-focused subjects:
1. Alignment with job market demands:
Focusing on career-oriented subjects equips students with the knowledge and skills needed in the current labour market. This better prepares them for employment. For instance, there is high demand for STEM graduates who are skilled in technology and problem-solving.
2. Increased job security and earnings:
Students who specialise in subjects like business, science or engineering are more likely to secure stable, high-paying jobs. For example, engineers and accountants are typically in demand and enjoy steady employment.
3. Efficient use of educational resources:
Concentrating on fewer core subjects allows schools to allocate resources more efficiently. For example, schools can hire more specialised teachers for maths and science rather than spreading resources thin across many subjects.
4. Higher academic achievement:
A focused curriculum promotes mastery in essential areas. For instance, Singapore has consistently ranked high in education by prioritising core academic disciplines.
5. Better alignment with employer needs:
When students are trained in subjects tied to workforce requirements, they become more employable. For example, programming and computer science courses align with modern business needs.
Arguments in favour of keeping non-career subjects:
1. Encourages creativity and emotional development:
Subjects like music and sports nurture imagination, emotional intelligence, and physical well-being. For instance, participation in school orchestras or sports improves mood and self-discipline.
2. Promotes cultural awareness and critical thinking:
Humanities such as history and literature broaden students' perspectives. For example, learning about other cultures enhances empathy and social understanding.
3. Supports social development:
Music and sports create opportunities for teamwork and friendship. For example, students in school sports teams often develop stronger peer relationships and communication skills.
4. Reduces academic stress:
Non-academic subjects offer relief from the pressures of core subjects. For instance, PE classes or art sessions help reduce anxiety and burnout.
5. Contributes to holistic development:
A well-rounded education includes intellectual, emotional, and physical growth. For example, schools that include arts and physical education produce more balanced individuals.
6. Increases student motivation:
Removing subjects students enjoy may reduce their interest in school. For example, students who look forward to drama or art class may feel disengaged if these are removed.
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