The debate between fostering competition or cooperation in schools has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 3-4 times annually in recent years. This topic’s frequency suggests its continued relevance in educational discourse and high probability of appearing in future tests.
In analyzing past IELTS examinations, this theme has manifested in various forms, with one particularly common question format:
Some people believe schools should encourage students to be competitive, while others believe schools should emphasize cooperation and sharing. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Students engaging in both competitive and cooperative learning activities
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss advantages of competitive learning
- Explore benefits of cooperative education
- Present and justify their own stance
- Provide relevant examples and support
Let’s examine sample essays at different band levels to understand effective approaches to this topic.
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Like how to promote teamwork in children, the debate between competition and cooperation in education represents a critical pedagogical choice. While both approaches offer distinct benefits, I believe a balanced integration of both elements creates the most effective learning environment.
Competition in schools can drive excellence and personal growth. When students compete, they often push themselves beyond their comfort zones, developing resilience and determination. For instance, academic competitions in mathematics or science can motivate students to excel and discover their full potential. Furthermore, competitive environments prepare students for real-world challenges they will face in their careers.
However, importance of teaching empathy and compassion suggests that cooperation is equally crucial for student development. Collaborative projects teach essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, and empathy. When students work together on group assignments, they learn to value different perspectives, share resources, and achieve common goals. These skills are increasingly valuable in today’s interconnected global workplace.
The ideal approach combines both elements strategically. Schools can implement competitive activities that foster individual growth while maintaining cooperative learning environments that build social skills. For example, students might compete individually in spelling contests but also collaborate on team projects that require shared responsibility and mutual support.
In conclusion, while both competition and cooperation have their merits, the most effective educational approach integrates both elements thoughtfully. This balanced strategy ensures students develop both personal excellence and collaborative capabilities, preparing them comprehensively for future challenges.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
In modern education, people have different opinions about whether schools should make students compete or cooperate. I think both ways are important but cooperation is better.
Competition makes students work harder. When students try to get better grades than others, they study more. For example, in my school, students who want to be top of the class spend extra time studying. This helps them learn more and get better results.
But cooperation is also very important. How to foster a growth mindset in children shows that when students work together, they learn from each other. They can help their friends understand difficult subjects. Also, working in groups teaches students how to communicate better.
I think cooperation is more important because it helps students in many ways. They learn to share ideas, respect others, and solve problems together. These skills are very useful for their future jobs. Most companies today want workers who can work well in teams.
In conclusion, while competition has some benefits, cooperation should be the main focus in schools because it prepares students better for real life.
Key Vocabulary
- pedagogical (adj.) /ˌpedəˈɡɒdʒɪkəl/ – relating to teaching
- resilience (n.) /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – ability to recover from difficulties
- integration (n.) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃən/ – combining different elements
- empathy (n.) /ˈempəθi/ – ability to understand others’ feelings
- interconnected (adj.) /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/ – mutually connected
- collaborative (adj.) /kəˈlæbərətɪv/ – involving working together
- strategic (adj.) /strəˈtiːdʒɪk/ – carefully planned to achieve a goal
Conclusion
This topic remains highly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Practice writing essays on similar themes like:
- Should schools focus more on individual achievement or group success?
- Is competition necessary for children’s development?
- How can schools balance personal excellence with social skills?
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
