Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Teaching Coding to Children in Schools

The topic of teaching coding to children in schools has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on recent trends, it’s likely to appear more frequently in future exams. This subject ties into broader themes of education, technology, and preparing students for the future job market. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams:

Some people think that schools should teach children skills that will help them in their future careers. Others believe schools should focus on academic subjects. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question aligns well with the debate surrounding the importance of teaching coding in primary schools, as coding is often viewed as a valuable skill for future careers. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Question Analysis

This question presents two contrasting views on the purpose of school education:

1. Schools should teach career-oriented skills
2. Schools should focus on traditional academic subjects

The task requires you to discuss both perspectives and provide your own opinion. Key points to consider:

• Define what constitutes “skills for future careers” and “academic subjects”
• Provide arguments for both viewpoints
• Present a balanced discussion before stating your own stance
• Use specific examples to support your points

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s rapidly evolving job market, there is an ongoing debate about the role of schools in preparing students for their future careers. While some argue that schools should prioritize teaching practical skills, others maintain that focusing on academic subjects is more beneficial. In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines both elements is the most effective strategy.

Those who advocate for career-oriented education argue that schools should equip students with skills directly applicable to the workforce. For instance, teaching coding to children can provide them with a valuable tool in our increasingly digital world. This approach can enhance students’ employability and help them adapt to the changing demands of the job market. Moreover, practical skills like financial literacy or public speaking can give students a head start in their professional lives.

On the other hand, proponents of traditional academic education emphasize the importance of building a strong foundation in core subjects. They argue that subjects like mathematics, science, and literature develop critical thinking and analytical skills that are transferable to various career paths. Furthermore, a well-rounded academic education fosters intellectual curiosity and creates lifelong learners who can adapt to new challenges throughout their careers.

In my view, the most effective approach is to integrate both career-oriented skills and academic subjects into the curriculum. For example, schools could incorporate coding lessons into mathematics or science classes, demonstrating the practical applications of these subjects. This integration would not only teach valuable skills but also show students how academic knowledge applies to real-world scenarios. Additionally, schools could focus more on career-oriented subjects while maintaining a strong foundation in core academic areas.

In conclusion, while both career-oriented skills and academic subjects have their merits, a balanced approach that combines the two is ideal. By providing students with both practical skills and a strong academic foundation, schools can better prepare them for the complex and ever-changing world they will face in their future careers.

(Word count: 309)

Teaching coding to children in schools as practical skills

Band 8-9 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with some less common phrases (e.g., “rapidly evolving job market,” “intellectual curiosity”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately, with only minor errors.

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

These days, there is a discussion about what schools should teach students. Some people think schools should teach skills for future jobs, while others believe schools should focus on academic subjects. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

People who support teaching career skills say it’s important for students’ future jobs. For example, teaching coding to children in schools can help them get good jobs in technology companies. Also, learning skills like teamwork and communication can be useful in many jobs. This can help students find work more easily after they finish school.

On the other hand, people who prefer academic subjects say these subjects are important for students’ overall development. Subjects like math, science, and literature help students think critically and solve problems. These skills are useful in many different jobs, not just one specific career. Also, academic subjects give students general knowledge about the world.

In my opinion, schools should teach both career skills and academic subjects. I think this is the best way to prepare students for the future. Schools can teach some career skills, like computer programming, alongside traditional subjects. This way, students can learn practical skills and also develop their thinking abilities.

To conclude, while both views have good points, I believe a mix of career skills and academic subjects is best for students. This approach can help prepare them for their future jobs and also for life in general.

(Word count: 253)

Band 6-7 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates good writing skills but has some areas for improvement:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes repetitive.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but there is limited use of less common words or phrases.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some errors that do not impede communication.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly, but some points could be elaborated on further.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – the subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college
2. Employability (noun) /ɪmˌplɔɪəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being suitable for paid work
3. Critical thinking (noun phrase) /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment
4. Adaptability (noun) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to adjust to new conditions
5. Integrate (verb) /ˈɪntɪɡreɪt/ – combine (one thing) with another so that they become a whole
6. Practical skills (noun phrase) /ˈpræktɪkl skɪlz/ – abilities that are useful or relevant in a working environment
7. Academic subjects (noun phrase) /ˌækəˈdemɪk ˈsʌbdʒɪkts/ – areas of study that are part of a traditional educational curriculum
8. Workforce (noun) /ˈwɜːrkfɔːrs/ – the people engaged in or available for work in a particular country or area

Integrating coding with academic subjects in the classroom

In conclusion, the topic of teaching coding and other career-oriented skills in schools is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays that balance different viewpoints and provide well-supported opinions. Consider exploring related themes such as the importance of scientific education for economic development to broaden your perspective on educational issues.

For effective practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.