The topic of teaching problem-solving skills in schools has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on recent exam trends and the growing emphasis on 21st-century skills in education, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in past IELTS exams and is likely to resurface in various forms.

Some people think that schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Others believe that school should only teach children academic subjects. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question directly relates to the importance of teaching problem-solving skills in schools, as being a good member of society often requires effective problem-solving abilities. The task requires us to:

1. Discuss the view that schools should teach children how to be good members of society
2. Discuss the view that schools should focus solely on academic subjects
3. Provide our own opinion on the matter

Let’s examine two sample essays addressing this question, one aiming for Band 8-9 and another for Band 6-7.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Education plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of society, and there is ongoing debate about whether schools should focus solely on academic subjects or include lessons on being good citizens. While both perspectives have merit, I believe a balanced approach that combines academic instruction with social skills development is crucial for nurturing well-rounded individuals.

Proponents of a purely academic curriculum argue that schools should prioritize core subjects such as mathematics, science, and language arts. They contend that a strong foundation in these areas is essential for students’ future academic and professional success. Moreover, they believe that social skills and civic responsibility should be taught at home or through extracurricular activities, allowing schools to concentrate on their primary educational mission.

On the other hand, advocates for teaching social skills in schools emphasize the importance of preparing students to be responsible and productive members of society. They argue that schools are uniquely positioned to provide a diverse environment where children can learn to collaborate, resolve conflicts, and develop empathy. These skills are crucial for success in both personal and professional life, and may not be adequately addressed in all home environments.

In my opinion, schools should strive to strike a balance between academic instruction and social skills development. Problem-solving skills, in particular, are fundamental to both academic success and good citizenship. By incorporating these skills into the curriculum, schools can prepare students to tackle complex issues in their studies and in society at large. For example, group projects that require students to work together to solve real-world problems can simultaneously enhance their academic knowledge and their ability to function effectively in a team.

Furthermore, teaching children how to be good members of society does not necessarily detract from academic instruction. Many social skills, such as critical thinking, effective communication, and ethical decision-making, are complementary to academic learning and can enhance students’ overall educational experience. By integrating these elements into the curriculum, schools can create a more holistic learning environment that prepares students for the multifaceted challenges they will face in the future.

In conclusion, while academic subjects are undoubtedly crucial, schools should not neglect the importance of teaching students how to be responsible citizens. A well-designed curriculum that balances both aspects can produce individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also equipped with the problem-solving skills necessary to contribute positively to society.

(Word count: 374)

Students collaborating on a problem-solving task

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

In today’s world, there is a debate about what schools should teach. Some people think schools should teach children how to be good members of society, while others believe schools should only focus on academic subjects. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Those who support teaching children to be good members of society say it is important for the future. They think schools can help students learn important skills like teamwork, respect, and how to solve problems. These skills are useful in life and work. Also, not all children learn these things at home, so schools can make sure everyone has the chance to learn them.

On the other hand, people who think schools should only teach academic subjects have their reasons too. They believe that subjects like math, science, and languages are the most important things for children to learn. They say that these subjects help children get good jobs in the future. They also think that parents should teach social skills at home.

In my opinion, I think schools should teach both academic subjects and how to be good members of society. Problem-solving skills are especially important because they help with both academic work and social situations. For example, when students work on group projects, they learn about their subject and also how to work with others. This can help them in school and in their future jobs.

I believe that teaching social skills doesn’t have to take away from academic learning. Many social skills, like critical thinking and communication, can actually help students do better in their academic subjects. By teaching both, schools can help students become smart and responsible people who can help make society better.

In conclusion, while academic subjects are very important, schools should also teach students how to be good citizens. A mix of both types of learning can help create well-rounded individuals who are ready for the challenges of the future.

(Word count: 329)

Key Considerations When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and transitions.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and expressions, such as “pivotal role,” “nurturing well-rounded individuals,” and “multifaceted challenges.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively conveys the main ideas.

3. Grammar: Both essays use a mix of simple and complex sentences. The Band 8-9 essay shows more variety in sentence structures and more accurate use of complex grammatical forms.

4. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed and nuanced arguments.

5. Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates stronger paragraph links and a more logical flow of ideas throughout the essay.

Essential Vocabulary for This Topic

1. Problem-solving skills (noun phrase) – /ˈprɒbləm ˈsɒlvɪŋ skɪlz/ – Abilities used to find solutions to difficult or complex issues
2. Critical thinking (noun phrase) – /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue to form a judgment
3. Holistic (adjective) – /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected and can be explained only by reference to the whole
4. Civic responsibility (noun phrase) – /ˈsɪvɪk rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – The duty of citizens to contribute to the well-being of their community
5. Empathy (noun) – /ˈempəθi/ – The ability to understand and share the feelings of another
6. Collaboration (noun) – /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/ – The action of working with someone to produce something
7. Ethical decision-making (noun phrase) – /ˈeθɪkl dɪˈsɪʒn ˈmeɪkɪŋ/ – The process of evaluating and choosing among alternatives in a way consistent with ethical principles
8. Well-rounded (adjective) – /ˌwel ˈraʊndɪd/ – Having a personality that is fully developed in all aspects
9. Extracurricular (adjective) – /ˌekstrəkəˈrɪkjələ(r)/ – (of an activity) pursued in addition to the normal course of study
10. Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features

Conclusion

The importance of teaching problem-solving skills in schools is a topic that resonates with the evolving needs of modern education and society. As we’ve seen in the sample essays, this theme can be approached from various angles, discussing the balance between academic subjects and life skills education.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The role of technology in developing problem-solving skills in education
2. The impact of problem-solving skills on future career success
3. How schools can integrate problem-solving into traditional academic subjects

We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS Writing Task 2.

Remember, mastering problem-solving skills is not just about acing the IELTS test, but also about preparing for the challenges of the real world. As you practice, focus on developing well-rounded arguments and clear, coherent writing that demonstrates your ability to think critically about complex issues.

For more insights on related topics, you might find our articles on the importance of teaching digital skills in schools and the importance of critical thinking in problem solving helpful in broadening your perspective on this subject.