The topic of schools’ role in promoting physical fitness and mental well-being has appeared frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, particularly in the past 2 years. Based on analysis from major IELTS preparation websites, this theme has appeared in approximately 15% of recent tests, making it a highly relevant topic for candidates.
Topic Analysis
Some people believe that schools should focus more on physical education and mental health alongside academic subjects. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their opinion on balancing physical/mental health with academics
- Provide supporting arguments and examples
- Structure a coherent response
- Use appropriate academic language
Students participating in physical education class at modern school
Model Essay (Band 8-9)
Physical and mental wellness are increasingly recognized as crucial components of education, alongside traditional academic subjects. I strongly agree that schools should place greater emphasis on these aspects, as they are fundamental to students’ overall development and future success.
Firstly, incorporating more physical education into school curricula offers numerous benefits. Regular exercise not only improves students’ physical health but also enhances their cognitive functions and academic performance. For instance, research has shown that students who participate in daily physical activities demonstrate better concentration and memory retention in their academic studies. Additionally, team sports and physical activities help develop essential life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and discipline.
Moreover, prioritizing mental health support in schools is crucial in today’s high-pressure academic environment. Many students face unprecedented levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, which significantly impact their learning capabilities and personal growth. By implementing counseling services, mindfulness programs, and stress management workshops, schools can equip students with vital coping mechanisms. For example, schools in Singapore that have introduced regular meditation sessions and emotional wellness programs have reported improved student well-being and academic outcomes.
However, this enhanced focus on physical and mental health should complement rather than compromise academic excellence. Schools can achieve this balance by integrating wellness activities throughout the school day, such as short exercise breaks between lessons or incorporating mindfulness practices into regular classes. This holistic approach ensures students develop both intellectual capabilities and essential life skills.
In conclusion, schools must evolve to address students’ complete developmental needs. By maintaining a balanced focus on physical fitness, mental health, and academic achievement, educational institutions can better prepare students for the challenges of modern life while fostering their overall well-being.
School counselor providing mental health support to student
Model Essay (Band 6-7)
I agree that schools should give more attention to physical education and mental health because these are important for students’ development.
The main reason for supporting more physical education is that it helps students stay healthy. When students do regular exercise, they can concentrate better in class and get better grades. Also, playing sports helps students make friends and learn how to work in teams. For example, in my country, schools that have good sports programs usually have happier students who do well in their studies.
Mental health is also very important for students today. Many young people feel stressed because of homework and exams. If schools provide counselors and teach students how to manage stress, it can help them cope better with their problems. Some schools have started meditation classes during break time, and this has helped students feel more relaxed and focused.
However, schools must be careful not to reduce time for academic subjects too much. They need to find a good balance between studies and these other activities. One way to do this is to have short exercise breaks during the day or combine mental health lessons with regular classes.
To conclude, I believe schools should definitely include more physical and mental health activities in their programs, but they should do this while maintaining good academic standards.
Essay Analysis
Band 8-9 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “unprecedented,” “cognitive functions,” “implementing”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization with well-developed arguments
- Relevant examples and specific details
- Cohesive devices used effectively
- Proper paragraph structure
Band 6-7 Essay Features:
- Good basic vocabulary with some advanced terms
- Mix of simple and complex sentences
- Clear but simpler organization
- Basic examples provided
- Some cohesive devices
- Adequate paragraph structure
Key Vocabulary
- cognitive functions (n) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv ˈfʌŋkʃənz/ – mental abilities
- unprecedented (adj) /ʌnˈprɛsɪdɛntɪd/ – never known or done before
- mindfulness (n) /ˈmaɪndfʊlnəs/ – mental state achieved by focusing awareness on the present moment
- holistic (adj) /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – considering the whole rather than parts
- implementing (v) /ˈɪmplɪmɛntɪŋ/ – putting into effect
- curricula (n) /kəˈrɪkjʊlə/ – plural of curriculum; courses offered by an educational institution
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- The role of technology in promoting student health
- Balance between academic and non-academic activities in schools
- Importance of mental health education in the modern curriculum
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
