Discussions about homework’s impact on students regularly appear in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in education-themed tests. Based on analysis of past exams, this topic has appeared approximately 3-4 times annually since 2019, indicating its continuing relevance. Let’s examine one frequently tested question format:
Some people believe that homework creates too much pressure on children, while others consider it essential for their academic development. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
- Topic: Homework’s impact on students
- Task: Discuss both views + give opinion
- Key aspects to address:
- Negative impact: pressure/stress
- Positive impact: academic development
- Personal stance required
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over homework’s role in education has intensified recently, with some arguing it overwhelms students while others defend its developmental benefits. In my opinion, while excessive homework can indeed be detrimental, moderate amounts are crucial for academic growth when properly assigned.
Those opposing homework emphasize its negative psychological impact. Students often face immense pressure trying to complete multiple assignments while balancing extracurricular activities and family time. This stress can lead to sleep deprivation, anxiety, and reduced motivation for learning. Furthermore, excessive homework may actually hinder learning by causing mental fatigue and reducing retention of information.
However, proponents argue that homework serves essential educational purposes. Regular practice through assignments helps consolidate classroom learning and develops crucial study habits. Additionally, homework fosters independence and time management skills that prove valuable throughout academic and professional life. Research indicates that students who complete appropriate amounts of homework tend to achieve better academic results.
The solution lies in finding the right balance. Teachers should assign meaningful, well-planned homework that reinforces learning without overwhelming students. This could involve quality-focused rather than quantity-focused assignments, with clear learning objectives and reasonable deadlines. Schools might also consider coordinating homework across subjects to prevent overload.
To conclude, while the concerns about homework pressure are valid, its fundamental role in educational development cannot be dismissed. The key is implementing homework policies that maximize learning benefits while minimizing stress on students.
Teacher explaining balanced homework approach to students
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, there is a big discussion about homework in schools. Some people think it gives too much stress to children, but others say it helps them learn better. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one side, homework can make students feel very stressed. Many children have lots of homework every day and don’t have time to play or rest. Sometimes they stay up late to finish their work and feel very tired the next day. Also, some parents get angry when their children can’t finish homework, which makes the situation worse.
However, homework has good points too. It helps students remember what they learned in class and practice more. When students do homework, they learn how to study by themselves and manage their time better. These are important skills for their future. Also, teachers can check if students understand the lessons through homework.
In my opinion, homework is important but should not be too much. Teachers should give homework that helps learning but doesn’t take too long to finish. Maybe 1-2 hours per day is enough for most students. This way, students can learn well but still have time to rest and do other activities.
Key Vocabulary
- detrimental (adj) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – causing harm or damage
- consolidate (v) /kənˈsɒlɪdeɪt/ – to strengthen or make something more solid
- retention (n) /rɪˈtenʃn/ – the ability to keep or remember information
- proponents (n) /prəˈpəʊnənts/ – people who support or promote something
- foster (v) /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – to encourage the development of something
- overwhelming (adj) /ˌəʊvəˈwelmɪŋ/ – very great in amount
- well-planned (adj) /wel plænd/ – carefully organized and arranged
- maximize (v) /ˈmæksɪmaɪz/ – to make as large or as great as possible
Conclusion
These sample essays demonstrate different approaches to discussing homework’s impact on students. For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones like:
- Should schools completely eliminate homework?
- What is the ideal amount of homework for different age groups?
- How can schools ensure homework assignments are meaningful and effective?
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
