The topic of balancing sports and academics in schools has appeared frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, particularly in Asia-Pacific test centers. Based on analysis of past papers, this theme emerges approximately twice per year, making it a significant topic for IELTS candidates to prepare for.
Analyzing the Task Question
Some people believe that schools should prioritize sports and physical activities over academic subjects. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This is an agree/disagree essay that requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on the statement
- Provide relevant examples and evidence
- Develop balanced arguments
- Reach a logical conclusion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
Physical education and academic subjects have long been considered fundamental pillars of education, yet there is ongoing debate about their relative importance. While sports undoubtedly play a crucial role in students’ development, I strongly disagree with the notion that they should take precedence over academic studies.
The primary purpose of education is to develop students’ intellectual capabilities and prepare them for future careers. Academic subjects like mathematics, sciences, and languages provide essential knowledge and critical thinking skills that are indispensable in today’s knowledge-based economy. These subjects form the foundation for higher education and professional success, enabling students to compete in an increasingly complex global marketplace.
Nevertheless, sports and physical activities offer significant benefits that complement academic learning. Regular physical exercise enhances cognitive function, improves concentration, and promotes better mental health. Studies have shown that students who participate in sports often demonstrate better academic performance due to improved discipline, time management skills, and reduced stress levels. Furthermore, team sports foster valuable social skills, leadership qualities, and emotional intelligence.
The optimal approach is to maintain a balanced curriculum where both academic subjects and sports receive appropriate attention. Schools should allocate sufficient time for physical activities without compromising the depth and quality of academic instruction. This could involve integrating movement into classroom learning, offering after-school sports programs, and ensuring that neither aspect of education overshadows the other.
In conclusion, while sports and physical activities are vital components of a well-rounded education, they should not supersede academic subjects in importance. The key lies in finding the right balance that promotes both intellectual and physical development, preparing students for success in all aspects of life.
Students engaging in both academic and sports activities
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
In modern education, there is a debate about whether schools should give more importance to sports than academic subjects. I disagree with this idea because academic education is more important for students’ futures.
Firstly, academic subjects are necessary for getting good jobs. Students need to learn subjects like math, science, and languages to get into university and find good careers. Many jobs today need people who are good at thinking and solving problems, which we learn from studying academic subjects.
However, sports are also important for students. Playing sports helps students stay healthy and learn teamwork. When students do physical activities, they can focus better in class and feel less stressed. Sports also teach important things like following rules and working with others.
Some people say sports should be more important because many students are not active enough today. They spend too much time with computers and phones. But making sports more important than studying would not help students prepare for their future jobs and careers.
I think schools should have both sports and academic subjects, but academic subjects should be the main focus. Schools can have sports activities after classes or during break times, so students can still be active without reducing study time.
In conclusion, while sports are important for students’ health and development, they should not be more important than academic subjects. Schools need to find a good way to include both, but academics should remain the priority.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis:
- Coherent and well-structured arguments
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Clear position with well-developed supporting ideas
- Excellent use of topic-specific vocabulary
- Effective use of linking words and phrases
- Natural and fluid writing style
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis:
- Clear but simpler structure
- Basic but accurate vocabulary
- Some repetition in ideas
- Limited range of complex sentences
- Basic linking words
- Less sophisticated examples and explanations
Key Vocabulary
- precedence (n) /prɪˈsiːdəns/ – priority or importance
- indispensable (adj) /ˌɪndɪˈspensəbl/ – absolutely necessary
- cognitive (adj) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv/ – related to mental processes
- supersede (v) /ˌsuːpəˈsiːd/ – replace or take priority over
- complement (v) /ˈkɒmplɪment/ – add to or enhance
- foster (v) /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – encourage or promote
- integrate (v) /ˈɪntɪɡreɪt/ – combine or coordinate different elements
- well-rounded (adj) /ˌwel ˈraʊndɪd/ – balanced in development
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- The role of physical education in the digital age
- Balancing extracurricular activities with academic studies
- The importance of life skills versus academic knowledge in education
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
