Music education has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 2-3 times annually in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam patterns, questions about importance of early childhood education in cognitive development and music programs are likely to appear more frequently in future tests.
Students participating in music education class with instruments
Analysis of a Recent IELTS Task 2 Question
Some people think that music education is a waste of school resources and should be eliminated from the curriculum. Others believe it is just as important as other academic subjects. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Value of music education in schools
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key points to address:
- Arguments against music education
- Arguments supporting music education
- Personal stance with justification
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
The debate over whether should music education be part of core curriculum has intensified in recent years. While some consider it an unnecessary expense, I strongly believe that music education is as valuable as other academic subjects.
Those who oppose music education in schools primarily argue that it diverts precious resources from core subjects. They contend that funds could be better allocated to mathematics, sciences, or language programs that directly contribute to students’ career prospects. Additionally, they suggest that interested students can pursue musical training outside school hours.
However, the benefits of music education are both substantial and well-documented. Research has consistently shown that musical training enhances cognitive development, particularly in areas of memory, spatial-temporal skills, and mathematical ability. Furthermore, similar to how should art programs be mandatory in school, music education develops crucial soft skills such as discipline, teamwork, and creative expression. Students who participate in school orchestras or choirs learn valuable lessons about collaboration and persistence.
In my opinion, music education should remain an integral part of the curriculum. The holistic development it offers extends far beyond musical proficiency. Just as physical education nurtures bodily health, music education cultivates emotional intelligence and cultural awareness. Moreover, in our increasingly technological world, creative and emotional skills fostered by music education are becoming more, not less, important.
To conclude, while the cost concerns of music education critics are understandable, the comprehensive benefits it provides to students’ development far outweigh these considerations. Schools should continue investing in music education as a fundamental component of a well-rounded education.
School orchestra performance showcasing music education benefits
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, there is a big discussion about music education in schools. Some people think it’s not important, but others say it helps students learn better. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who don’t like music education in schools think it costs too much money. They say schools should spend money on subjects like math and science because these subjects help students get good jobs in the future. Also, they think students who want to learn music can take private lessons after school.
On the other hand, music education has many good points. It helps students become smarter and better at remembering things. When students play music together, they learn how to work in teams. Music also makes students feel happy and less stressed about their other studies.
I think music education is very important for students. It helps them learn many useful skills that they can’t learn in other subjects. Music makes school more fun and interesting for students. Also, when students learn music, they understand different cultures better.
In conclusion, even though music education costs money, it gives students many benefits. Schools should keep teaching music because it helps students become better people. Music education is just as important as other subjects in school.
Key Vocabulary
- curriculum (n) /kəˈrɪkjʊləm/ – course of study
- holistic (adj) /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – comprehensive, complete
- cognitive (adj) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv/ – related to thinking and understanding
- spatial-temporal (adj) /ˈspeɪʃəl-ˈtempərəl/ – relating to space and time
- integral (adj) /ˈɪntɪɡrəl/ – essential, fundamental
- proficiency (n) /prəˈfɪʃənsi/ – skill, expertise
- cultivate (v) /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ – develop, nurture
- comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete, thorough
Practice Suggestions
Consider writing essays on these related topics:
- Should music education be mandatory until high school graduation?
- How does music education contribute to students’ personal development?
- Is traditional music education relevant in the digital age?
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow learners.
