Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Teaching Soft Skills in Schools

The importance of teaching soft skills in schools has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This theme frequently appears in recent exams and is likely to continue as a significant subject in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis to help you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2.

Analyzing the Essay Prompt

Let’s examine a common IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:

Some people think that schools should focus on teaching academic subjects, while others believe that teaching soft skills like communication and teamwork is more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the importance of academic subjects in schools
2. Explore the significance of teaching soft skills
3. Present your own opinion on which approach is more valuable

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

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s rapidly evolving job market, the debate between prioritizing academic subjects and soft skills in schools has intensified. While some argue that traditional academic subjects should remain the focus of education, others contend that soft skills are equally, if not more, crucial for students’ future success. In my opinion, a balanced approach that integrates both academic knowledge and soft skills is essential for preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century.

Proponents of a strong academic focus argue that subjects like mathematics, sciences, and languages form the foundation of a well-rounded education. These disciplines provide students with critical knowledge and analytical skills necessary for higher education and specialized careers. Moreover, academic subjects often serve as prerequisites for university admissions and many professional paths, making them indispensable in a competitive global economy.

Importance of Academic Subjects

On the other hand, advocates for teaching soft skills emphasize the importance of abilities such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability in the modern workplace. These skills are often cited by employers as crucial attributes for success, yet they are not typically taught explicitly in traditional academic curricula. In an era of rapid technological change and increasing automation, soft skills may prove more resilient and transferable across various industries and roles.

In my view, the ideal approach is to integrate soft skills education within the framework of academic subjects. For instance, group projects in science classes can foster both subject knowledge and teamwork skills. Similarly, presentations in language courses can enhance both linguistic abilities and public speaking skills. This integrated approach ensures that students develop a robust foundation of knowledge while also honing the interpersonal and adaptability skills required in today’s dynamic work environment.

Students Collaborating on a Group Project

In conclusion, while the debate between academic subjects and soft skills is often presented as a dichotomy, the most effective educational strategy is one that combines both elements. By doing so, schools can equip students with the comprehensive skill set needed to navigate the complexities of modern life and career challenges.

(Word count: 309)

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a high band score (8-9) for several reasons:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked with appropriate cohesive devices.
3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Examples include “rapidly evolving job market,” “indispensable in a competitive global economy,” and “integrated approach.”
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It displays a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are used effectively, and there are no noticeable errors.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

There is a debate about what schools should focus on teaching students. Some people think academic subjects are the most important, while others believe soft skills like communication and teamwork are more valuable. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Those who support teaching academic subjects say these are the building blocks of education. Subjects like math, science, and languages give students important knowledge they need for university and future jobs. These subjects also help students develop critical thinking skills, which are useful in many areas of life.

On the other hand, supporters of teaching soft skills argue that these are becoming more important in the modern workplace. Skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are often what employers look for when hiring new staff. These skills can help people adapt to different situations and work well with others, which is important in most jobs today.

High Demand for Soft Skills in Workplace

In my opinion, both academic subjects and soft skills are important, and schools should try to teach both. I think the best way to do this is to include soft skills training within academic subjects. For example, students could work on group projects in science class, which would teach them about science and also help them practice teamwork and communication.

To conclude, while both academic subjects and soft skills are valuable, I believe a balanced approach that combines both is the best way to prepare students for their future careers and lives.

(Word count: 253)

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 score:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though the development of ideas is less thorough compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
3. Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but it lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control, though there is less variety compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Soft skills (noun) – /sɒft skɪlz/ – Personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively with others
2. Academic subjects (noun phrase) – /ækəˈdemɪk ˈsʌbdʒekts/ – Traditional areas of study in schools, such as mathematics, sciences, and languages
3. Interpersonal abilities (noun phrase) – /ˌɪntəˈpɜːsənl əˈbɪlətiz/ – Skills related to interacting with and understanding others
4. Adaptability (noun) – /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions
5. Critical thinking (noun phrase) – /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue to form a judgment
6. Integrated approach (noun phrase) – /ˈɪntɪɡreɪtɪd əˈprəʊtʃ/ – A method that combines different elements or strategies
7. Transferable skills (noun phrase) – /trænsˈfɜːrəbl skɪlz/ – Abilities that can be applied in various job situations
8. Well-rounded education (noun phrase) – /wel ˈraʊndɪd ˌedʒuˈkeɪʃn/ – A comprehensive education covering a wide range of subjects and skills

Conclusion

The topic of teaching soft skills in schools is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays that balance discussion of both academic subjects and soft skills. Consider how these skills can be integrated into traditional curricula and reflect on their importance in the modern workplace.

For further practice, try writing an essay on the following related topics:

1. Should schools teach financial literacy as a mandatory subject?
2. Is it more important for schools to focus on personal development or academic achievement?
3. How can education systems better prepare students for the future job market?

Remember to post your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.

To further enhance your understanding of modern educational trends, you might want to explore related topics such as the importance of project-based learning for developing practical skills and the role of international schools in preserving cultural diversity. These resources can provide additional context and vocabulary to strengthen your IELTS Writing Task 2 responses.