The topic of “gifted and talented programs” in education has appeared multiple times in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, particularly during 2019-2023. Based on analysis of past papers, this topic commonly emerges in Advantages/Disadvantages or Discussion essays. Given its relevance to global education trends, it’s likely to appear again in future tests.
Analysis of Sample Question
Some schools separate high-achieving students into special “gifted and talented” programs. While some people believe this benefits talented students, others think it is harmful to overall student development. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This discussion essay requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on separating gifted students
- Provide relevant examples and explanations
- Present a clear personal stance
- Maintain a balanced academic tone
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The practice of isolating academically gifted students into specialized programs has sparked considerable debate in educational circles. While proponents argue this approach maximizes talented students’ potential, critics contend it creates unnecessary divisions. I believe that while such programs offer certain advantages, their implementation requires careful consideration to avoid negative consequences.
Advocates of gifted programs present compelling arguments for academic segregation. These specialized tracks allow high-achieving students to progress at an accelerated pace without being held back by the standard curriculum. For instance, in Singapore’s gifted education program, students can explore advanced topics like quantum physics or complex literature analysis that would be impossible in regular classrooms. This specialized attention helps nurture exceptional talents that might otherwise remain underdeveloped.
However, critics raise valid concerns about the social and psychological impact of such separation. When bright students are isolated from their peers, it can foster elitism and reduce opportunities for diverse social interaction. Research from South Korea’s hagwon system shows that students in accelerated programs often struggle with increased pressure and competition, leading to mental health issues. Additionally, regular classrooms lose positive peer influences when top performers are removed.
Gifted students engaged in advanced mathematics lesson with specialized instructor
In my view, while gifted programs can be beneficial, they should be implemented with careful consideration of both academic and social factors. A balanced approach might involve partial separation, where talented students attend advanced classes for specific subjects while maintaining integration with peers for other activities. This model, successfully used in countries like Finland, ensures academic challenge while preserving social development opportunities.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many schools have special programs for clever students. Some people think this is good, but others say it is bad for students. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On the positive side, gifted programs help smart students learn better. When bright students study together, they can learn faster and do harder work. For example, in my country, students in special classes can study more difficult math and science. This helps them get better grades and go to good universities.
However, there are some problems with these programs. When schools separate students, it can make some students feel bad. The students who are not in special classes might think they are not smart enough. Also, students in gifted programs might become proud and not want to talk to other students.
I think gifted programs can be good if schools use them carefully. Schools should let smart students take some special classes but also have normal classes with other students. This way, everyone can learn well and make friends with different people.
Key Vocabulary
- academically gifted (adj) /ˌækəˈdemɪkli ˈɡɪftɪd/ – having exceptional academic abilities
- segregation (n) /ˌseɡrɪˈɡeɪʃn/ – the act of separating people into different groups
- accelerated pace (n) /əkˈseləreɪtɪd peɪs/ – faster than normal speed of progress
- elitism (n) /ɪˈliːtɪzəm/ – the belief that certain people deserve more privileges
- peer influence (n) /pɪər ˈɪnfluəns/ – the effect that people of the same age have on each other
- integration (n) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃn/ – the process of bringing people of different types together
Conclusion
The topic of gifted and talented programs remains relevant for IELTS candidates. Similar questions might focus on:
- The role of specialized education in modern society
- The balance between academic excellence and social development
- Educational equality versus individual potential maximization
Practice writing your own response to this question and share it in the comments for feedback. Remember to maintain a clear structure, use appropriate academic vocabulary, and support your arguments with relevant examples.
