Standardized education remains a frequently tested topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately once every 3-4 months in actual tests. Based on analysis of past exam questions from 2018-2023, this topic has seen increased prominence, particularly in questions about educational assessment methods and teaching standardization.
Similar to Tests vs. continual assessment for evaluating students, standardized education continues to generate significant debate among educators and policymakers.
Let’s examine a recent test question that exemplifies this topic:
Some people think that schools should teach students according to their academic abilities, but others believe that it is better to have students with different abilities study together. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Diverse group of students studying together in modern classroom
Analysis of Question Requirements
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss advantages of ability-based grouping
- Explore benefits of mixed-ability classes
- Present and justify their personal stance
- Provide relevant examples and evidence
Sample Essays with Band Scores
Band 8 Sample Essay
The debate over whether students should be grouped by academic ability or taught in mixed-ability classes has significant implications for educational outcomes. While both approaches have merit, I believe mixed-ability grouping ultimately offers greater benefits for students’ overall development.
Those who advocate ability-based grouping argue that it allows teachers to tailor instruction to students’ specific needs. High-achieving students can progress rapidly without feeling held back, while struggling students receive targeted support without feeling overwhelmed. For example, in mathematics, advanced students can explore complex problems while others master fundamental concepts at their own pace.
However, mixed-ability classrooms offer several compelling advantages. Firstly, they better reflect real-world environments where people of varying capabilities must collaborate effectively. This setting helps develop crucial social skills and emotional intelligence. Additionally, struggling students often benefit from peer learning opportunities, while high-achieving students reinforce their understanding by explaining concepts to others.
The success of Home schooling: advantages vs. disadvantages demonstrates that diverse learning environments can be highly effective when properly managed.
In my view, mixed-ability grouping is preferable because it promotes inclusive education and prevents the negative psychological impact of labeling students. Research from countries like Finland, which consistently ranks among top educational performers, shows that heterogeneous grouping contributes to both academic excellence and social equity.
(290 words)
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
The question of how to group students in schools is very important. Some people think students should study with others at the same level, but others say mixing different levels is better. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
Studying with same-level students has some good points. Teachers can give lessons that match students’ abilities. Fast learners won’t get bored, and slow learners won’t feel bad about falling behind. For example, in my country, some schools separate students in maths classes, and many students feel more comfortable this way.
Standardized testing: effective or not? shows that mixed groups can also work well. When different level students study together, weaker students can learn from better ones. Also, smart students learn to help others, which is a good skill. Mixed groups help students make more friends and learn to work with different people.
I think mixed groups are better because they help all students develop important social skills. Also, separating students can make some feel less confident. In my experience as a student, I learned more in mixed classes because I could help others and get help when needed.
(159 words)
Scoring Analysis
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary (implications, advocates, compelling)
- Clear position with well-developed arguments
- Cohesive paragraphing with smooth transitions
- Relevant examples and evidence
- Complex sentence structures
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear expression
- Basic paragraph organization
- Limited range of vocabulary
- Some repetition of ideas
- Less sophisticated examples
Key Vocabulary
- heterogeneous (adj) /ˌhetərəˈdʒiːniəs/ – diverse in character
- tailored instruction (n) /ˈteɪləd ɪnˈstrʌkʃən/ – customized teaching
- cognitive development (n) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv dɪˈveləpmənt/ – mental growth
- pedagogical (adj) /ˌpedəˈɡɒdʒɪkəl/ – related to teaching
- inclusive education (n) /ɪnˈkluːsɪv ˌedʒuˈkeɪʃən/ – education for all abilities
Consider practicing with this related prompt:
“Some educators believe standardized testing is the best way to evaluate students, while others prefer continuous assessment. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion!
