Fine arts education has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends, it’s likely that questions related to the importance of fine arts in education will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams:
Some people think that schools should focus on teaching science and technology subjects rather than art and music. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question addresses the debate between prioritizing STEM subjects and fine arts in education. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
The question asks for your opinion on whether schools should prioritize science and technology over art and music. Key points to consider:
- The statement presents a comparison between two groups of subjects.
- You need to express your level of agreement or disagreement.
- Your response should discuss both sides of the argument.
- Provide reasons and examples to support your position.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s rapidly advancing technological world, there is a growing emphasis on science and technology education. While these subjects are undoubtedly crucial, I firmly believe that schools should maintain a balanced curriculum that includes art and music alongside STEM subjects.
Firstly, a well-rounded education that incorporates both scientific and artistic disciplines fosters creativity and critical thinking. Science and technology provide the tools to solve problems, while art and music cultivate innovative thinking and emotional intelligence. This combination equips students with a diverse skill set essential for success in various fields. For instance, many successful tech entrepreneurs credit their artistic backgrounds for their ability to think outside the box and create user-friendly designs.
Moreover, art and music play a vital role in personal development and cultural preservation. These subjects allow students to express themselves, understand diverse perspectives, and appreciate cultural heritage. In an increasingly globalized world, such skills are invaluable for fostering empathy and cross-cultural understanding. Countries like South Korea have recognized this and have implemented policies to balance STEM education with arts and humanities, resulting in a more versatile workforce.
However, it is essential to acknowledge the importance of science and technology in our modern world. These subjects drive economic growth, technological innovation, and scientific breakthroughs that improve our quality of life. Schools must ensure that students receive a strong foundation in these areas to remain competitive in the global market.
In conclusion, while science and technology are crucial, they should not come at the expense of art and music education. A balanced approach that values both STEM and artistic subjects will produce well-rounded individuals capable of tackling the complex challenges of the 21st century. Education systems should strive to integrate these disciplines, recognizing that innovation often occurs at the intersection of science and art.
Balanced curriculum integrating STEM and arts education
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, there has been a debate about whether schools should focus more on science and technology subjects instead of art and music. While science and technology are important, I believe that schools should maintain a balance between these subjects and the arts.
One reason for keeping art and music in schools is that they help students develop creativity. These subjects allow students to express themselves and think in different ways. This can be useful in many careers, not just in the arts. For example, a designer who understands both technology and art can create better products.
Additionally, art and music are important for cultural reasons. They help students understand their own culture and appreciate others. This is especially important in today’s globalized world where understanding different cultures is necessary. Many countries, like Japan, have traditions in both technology and arts, showing that both are valuable.
However, it’s true that science and technology are very important in today’s world. These subjects prepare students for many jobs and help countries develop economically. Schools need to make sure students have strong skills in these areas to be competitive in the job market.
In conclusion, I believe that schools should teach both science and technology and art and music. A balanced education that includes all these subjects will help students become well-rounded individuals who can succeed in various fields. Schools should find ways to integrate these subjects rather than focusing on one area at the expense of others.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Some people think schools should teach more science and technology instead of art and music. I don’t fully agree with this idea. I think schools should teach both types of subjects.
Science and technology are important subjects. They help students learn about computers and new inventions. This knowledge is useful for many jobs today. For example, many companies need workers who understand technology.
But art and music are also important. These subjects help students be creative and express their feelings. Art and music can make people happy and help them understand different cultures. In my country, traditional music is very important to our culture.
Also, some students are better at art and music than science. If schools only teach science, these students might not do well. It’s good to have different subjects so all students can find what they’re good at.
In conclusion, I think schools should teach science, technology, art, and music. This way, students can learn many different things and choose what they like best. A mix of subjects is better for students’ education.
Students engaged in various subjects in a classroom
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 essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control
- Uses a wide range of complex structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Ideas are coherently organized with clear progression throughout
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, although conclusions may be unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Information and ideas are arranged coherently with clear overall progression
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but development is not always clear
- Uses limited range of vocabulary; attempts to use less common words but with some inaccuracy
- Uses a limited range of structures with some attempt to use complex sentences
- Presents information with some organization but there may be lack of overall progression
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college
- Innovative (adjective) /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ – Featuring new methods; advanced and original
- Globalized (adjective) /ˈɡləʊbəlaɪzd/ – Developed or implemented on a global scale
- Integration (noun) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃn/ – The action or process of combining two or more things in an effective way
- Versatile (adjective) /ˈvɜːsətaɪl/ – Able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities
- Cultural heritage (noun phrase) /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society
- Cross-cultural understanding (noun phrase) /krɒs-ˈkʌltʃərəl ˌʌndəˈstændɪŋ/ – The ability to recognize, interpret, and correctly react to people, incidences or situations that are open to misunderstanding due to cultural differences
- Well-rounded (adjective) /ˌwel ˈraʊndɪd/ – Having a personality that is fully developed in all aspects
- STEM (acronym) /stem/ – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
- Empathy (noun) /ˈempəθi/ – The ability to understand and share the feelings of another
In conclusion, the debate over prioritizing fine arts in education remains a relevant and thought-provoking topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar questions that explore the balance between different subjects in education. You might encounter variations such as:
- The role of music and art in early childhood education
- The impact of reduced arts funding in schools
- The integration of arts into STEM education (STEAM)
Remember to structure your essay clearly, provide relevant examples, and express your opinion backed by logical reasoning. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS aspirants. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and gain valuable insights from others preparing for the exam.
For more IELTS Writing Task 2 practice, you might also be interested in exploring other relevant topics such as how urban gardens can promote sustainable living or how climate change affects wildlife habitats. These topics can help you develop a broader perspective on global issues, which is valuable for tackling a wide range of IELTS essay questions.