Cultural diversity in schools has become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends, this theme is likely to appear frequently in future exams. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS tests:
Some people think that schools should teach children the academic subjects that will prepare them for future careers. Others believe that schools should teach children a wide range of subjects to give them a broad education. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question touches on the Importance Of Cultural Diversity In Schools by addressing the debate between specialized versus broad education. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
The question presents two contrasting views on school curricula:
- Focus on academic subjects for career preparation
- Teach a wide range of subjects for a broad education
To effectively answer this question, you should:
- Discuss both viewpoints
- Provide arguments for each side
- State your own opinion
- Support your ideas with examples
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Cultural diversity in schools plays a crucial role in shaping students’ worldviews and preparing them for an interconnected global society. While some argue that schools should prioritize career-oriented subjects, others believe in the value of a comprehensive education. In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines both elements is ideal for nurturing well-rounded individuals.
Proponents of career-focused education argue that schools should emphasize subjects directly relevant to future professions. This approach aims to equip students with specific skills and knowledge required in the job market, potentially leading to better employment prospects. For instance, focusing on STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) can prepare students for in-demand careers in fields like artificial intelligence or biotechnology.
On the other hand, advocates for a broad education emphasize the importance of exposing students to a wide range of subjects. This approach fosters critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability – skills that are valuable in any career. A diverse curriculum that includes arts, humanities, and social sciences alongside traditional academic subjects can help students develop a more comprehensive understanding of the world. For example, studying literature from different cultures can enhance empathy and cross-cultural communication skills, which are increasingly important in our globalized society.
In my view, the ideal approach is to strike a balance between these two perspectives. Schools should provide a strong foundation in core academic subjects while also offering a variety of electives that allow students to explore different fields. This balanced curriculum can help students discover their passions, develop transferable skills, and gain a broader perspective on the world. Additionally, integrating cultural diversity into all subjects can further enrich the educational experience, preparing students to thrive in multicultural environments.
In conclusion, while career preparation is important, a well-rounded education that embraces cultural diversity and a wide range of subjects is crucial for success in our complex, interconnected world. By combining focused academic study with broader learning experiences, schools can better prepare students for both their future careers and their roles as global citizens.
(Word count: 329)
Cultural diversity integrated into school curriculum
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
There is a debate about what schools should teach students. Some people think schools should focus on subjects that help students get jobs in the future. Others believe schools should teach many different subjects to give students a wide education. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
People who support teaching subjects for future careers say it’s important because it helps students get good jobs. For example, if schools teach more science and technology, students can work in fields like computers or engineering. This can be good for their future and for the economy.
On the other hand, people who want schools to teach many subjects say it’s better for students to learn about different things. This can help students become more creative and understand the world better. For example, learning about art, music, and different cultures can make students more open-minded and able to work with different people.
In my opinion, I think schools should try to do both. They should teach important subjects like math and science, but also include other subjects like art and history. This way, students can learn skills for jobs but also become more knowledgeable about the world. It’s also good to include information about different cultures in all subjects, which can help students understand diversity better.
To conclude, while preparing for careers is important, I believe schools should provide a mix of subjects. This can help students be ready for jobs and also be well-rounded people who understand the world around them.
(Word count: 252)
Band 5-6 Sample Essay
Some people think schools should teach subjects for future jobs. Other people think schools should teach many different subjects. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
Teaching subjects for jobs is good because it helps students find work later. For example, if students learn computer skills, they can get jobs in IT companies. This is important because having a job is necessary for life.
Teaching many subjects is also good because it helps students learn about many things. For example, if students learn about art, music, and different countries, they can understand the world better. This can make them smarter and more interesting people.
I think both ideas are important. Schools should teach subjects that help with jobs, but also teach other subjects. This way, students can be ready for work and also know about many things. It’s also good to learn about different cultures in school because the world has many different people.
In conclusion, I believe schools should teach both job skills and many other subjects. This will help students in their future work and life.
(Word count: 159)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the response
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Demonstrates strong coherence and cohesion with logical paragraphing
IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a clear overall position but may lack focus in some parts
- Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow some flexibility and precision
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information and ideas coherently with clear progression throughout
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses limited range of vocabulary; errors may occur when expressing complex ideas
- Uses a limited range of structures with some attempt to use more complex sentences
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Cultural diversity (noun) /ˈkʌltʃərəl daɪˈvɜːrsəti/ – The existence of a variety of cultural groups within a society
- Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college
- Well-rounded (adjective) /wel ˈraʊndɪd/ – Having a personality that is fully developed in all aspects
- Globalized (adjective) /ˈɡləʊbəlaɪzd/ – Made worldwide in scope or application
- Adaptability (noun) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions
- Interdisciplinary (adjective) /ˌɪntərdɪsəˈplɪnəri/ – Relating to more than one branch of knowledge
- Cross-cultural (adjective) /krɒs ˈkʌltʃərəl/ – Dealing with or comparing two or more different cultures
- Transferable skills (noun phrase) /trænsˈfɜːrəbl skɪlz/ – Abilities that are useful in many different job roles and industries
- Multicultural (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈkʌltʃərəl/ – Relating to or containing several cultural or ethnic groups
- Empathy (noun) /ˈempəθi/ – The ability to understand and share the feelings of another
The importance of cultural diversity in schools extends beyond just the curriculum. It encompasses the entire educational experience, including interactions between students, teachers, and the broader community. importance of multicultural education in globalized societies highlights how this approach prepares students for the complexities of our interconnected world.
In conclusion, mastering IELTS Writing Task 2 on topics related to cultural diversity in schools requires a nuanced understanding of educational philosophies and global trends. As you practice, consider how cultural diversity intersects with various aspects of education, from curriculum design to classroom dynamics. You might also explore related topics such as how cultural festivals promote national unity to broaden your perspective on cultural issues.
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your ideas and writing style, preparing you for success in the IELTS exam.
