As an IELTS examiner and instructor, I’ve noticed that questions about arts and creativity in education frequently appear in Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared in various forms over the past 5 years, particularly in questions about curriculum design, student development, and educational priorities. Research from arts education fosters creativity shows this trend is likely to continue.
Analysis of Common Question Types
Recent IELTS exams have featured several variations of this topic. One particularly common question type focuses on the balance between arts education and other subjects. Here’s a representative question:
Some people think that schools should spend more time teaching creative subjects like art and music rather than scientific and technical subjects. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Question Analysis
- Topic: Educational curriculum priorities
- Task: Agree/Disagree
- Key points to address:
- Balance between creative and technical subjects
- Educational outcomes
- Future career prospects
- Overall student development
Creative arts education balancing with technical subjects in modern classroom
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
While some advocate for increased emphasis on creative subjects in schools, I firmly disagree with prioritizing arts and music over scientific and technical subjects, as a balanced approach is crucial for comprehensive education.
Firstly, technical and scientific subjects provide essential skills for the modern workforce. In today’s digital age, proficiency in mathematics, programming, and scientific thinking has become fundamental for most careers. As explored in Future of work in tech-advanced world?, technological literacy is increasingly crucial for employment prospects.
However, this doesn’t diminish the importance of creative subjects. Art and music develop unique cognitive abilities and emotional intelligence. They enhance problem-solving skills, foster innovation, and provide valuable outlets for self-expression. The key lies in integration rather than prioritization.
Moreover, the distinction between creative and technical subjects is increasingly blurred. Modern fields like digital design, architecture, and user interface development require both technical expertise and creative thinking. The importance of arts education in schools demonstrates how these areas complement each other.
In conclusion, while creative subjects are valuable, they shouldn’t overshadow scientific and technical education. Schools should maintain a balanced curriculum that prepares students for future challenges while nurturing their creative potential.
Analysis of Band 8.5 Essay
- Clear position
- Sophisticated vocabulary
- Complex sentence structures
- Well-developed arguments
- Cohesive paragraphing
- Relevant examples
Integration of STEM and Arts in modern education systems
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I disagree with spending more time on creative subjects than scientific and technical subjects in schools because both are important for students’ future.
First, scientific and technical subjects are very important today. Many jobs need computer skills and math knowledge. Students who are good at these subjects can find good jobs in technology companies.
Also, creative subjects like art and music are useful too. They help students become more creative and express themselves better. Some students might become artists or musicians in the future.
But we shouldn’t focus too much on creative subjects. Both types of subjects help students in different ways. Some jobs need both creative and technical skills, like web design or architecture.
In conclusion, schools should give equal time to both creative and technical subjects. This will help students develop all the skills they need for their future careers.
Analysis of Band 6.5 Essay
- Clear but simple structure
- Basic vocabulary
- Simple sentence patterns
- Limited development of ideas
- Basic cohesion
- Adequate task response
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Curriculum (n) /kəˈrɪkjʊləm/ – course of study
- Integration (n) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃn/ – combining elements
- Cognitive abilities (n) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv əˈbɪlətiz/ – mental skills
- Proficiency (n) /prəˈfɪʃnsi/ – expertise
- Innovation (n) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – new ideas/methods
- Self-expression (n) /ˌselfɪkˈspreʃn/ – conveying thoughts/feelings
- Comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete, thorough
- Fundamental (adj) /ˌfʌndəˈmentl/ – essential, basic
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Consider also exploring related topics like Mindfulness and meditation in schools for a broader perspective on modern education.
