Music education has been a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing with moderate frequency in past exams. As the importance of arts in education gains recognition globally, it’s likely that questions about integrating music into core curricula will continue to feature in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that music education should be a part of the core curriculum in schools. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question asks test-takers to express their opinion on whether music education should be a mandatory part of school curricula. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
The question is straightforward and requires you to:
- Clearly state your position on music education in core curricula
- Provide reasons and examples to support your view
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Conclude with a summary of your stance
Remember to address both parts of the question: music education and its place in the core curriculum.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In my opinion, music education should undoubtedly be a fundamental component of the core curriculum in schools. This view is based on the myriad benefits that musical training offers to students’ overall development and future success.
Firstly, music education significantly enhances cognitive abilities. Research has consistently shown that learning to play an instrument or read music notation improves memory, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving skills. These cognitive enhancements extend beyond music, positively impacting performance in other academic areas such as mathematics and language arts. For instance, a study conducted at the University of California found that students involved in music programs scored an average of 40 points higher on math and language tests compared to their non-musical peers.
Moreover, music education fosters crucial social and emotional skills. Participation in music ensembles, such as choirs or orchestras, teaches students the value of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. These soft skills are invaluable in personal and professional contexts, preparing students for future challenges in the workplace and society. Additionally, music serves as a powerful medium for self-expression and emotional regulation, contributing to students’ mental well-being and resilience.
Furthermore, integrating music into the core curriculum ensures equitable access to arts education. When music is treated as an elective or extracurricular activity, it often becomes accessible only to students from privileged backgrounds who can afford private lessons or instruments. By making music a core subject, schools can democratize access to arts education, fostering creativity and cultural awareness across all socioeconomic groups.
Some may argue that adding music to the core curriculum could detract from time spent on “essential” subjects like mathematics or science. However, this concern overlooks the interconnected nature of learning. The impact of music education on cognitive development suggests that musical training can actually enhance performance in these areas, making it a complementary rather than competing subject.
In conclusion, the inclusion of music education in the core curriculum is not just beneficial but essential for holistic student development. Its positive effects on cognitive abilities, social skills, and emotional well-being, coupled with its role in promoting equitable access to arts education, make it an indispensable part of a well-rounded education. Schools and policymakers should prioritize music education to prepare students for success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
I agree that music education should be part of the core curriculum in schools. There are several reasons why I think this is important.
Firstly, learning music helps students develop important skills. When students learn to play an instrument or sing, they improve their concentration and memory. These skills can help them in other subjects too. For example, a friend of mine who started learning piano found that his math grades improved because he could focus better in class.
Secondly, music education teaches teamwork and discipline. When students participate in school bands or choirs, they learn to work together and practice regularly. These are important life skills that can help them in their future careers and personal lives.
Another reason is that music education can help students express themselves. Some students may find it hard to express their feelings through words, but music gives them another way to do this. This can be good for their emotional health and help them feel more confident.
However, some people might say that adding music to the core curriculum would take time away from other important subjects like math and science. This is a valid concern, but I think schools can find a balance. Maybe they could reduce the time spent on less important topics in other subjects to make room for music.
In conclusion, I believe music education should be part of the core curriculum because it helps students develop important skills, teaches teamwork, and allows for self-expression. While there may be challenges in implementing this, the benefits for students make it worthwhile.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Clear position with a well-developed argument
- Logical structure with clear progression of ideas
- Wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately
- Complex sentence structures with good control
- Relevant examples and evidence to support arguments
- Considers counterarguments
- Coherent conclusion that reinforces the main points
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Clear overall position, though less nuanced
- Logical structure, but less sophisticated development of ideas
- Good range of vocabulary, though less precise than Band 8-9
- Mix of simple and complex sentences, generally well-controlled
- Some relevant examples, but less specific or detailed
- Basic consideration of counterarguments
- Clear conclusion, though less comprehensive
Key Vocabulary
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Core curriculum (noun) – /kɔːr kəˈrɪkjələm/ – The basic courses of study that all students in a school or college are required to take.
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Cognitive abilities (noun phrase) – /ˈkɒɡnətɪv əˈbɪlətiz/ – Mental skills and processes related to knowledge, attention, memory, judgment, and reasoning.
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Spatial reasoning (noun phrase) – /ˈspeɪʃəl ˈriːzənɪŋ/ – The ability to visualize and manipulate objects and spatial relationships in one’s mind.
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Ensemble (noun) – /ɒnˈsɒmbl/ – A group of musicians, actors, or dancers who perform together.
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Democratize (verb) – /dɪˈmɒkrətaɪz/ – To make something available to all people.
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Holistic (adjective) – /həˈlɪstɪk/ – Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected and can be explained only by reference to the whole.
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Equitable (adjective) – /ˈekwɪtəbl/ – Fair and impartial.
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Complementary (adjective) – /ˌkɒmplɪˈmentəri/ – Combining in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other or another.
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Indispensable (adjective) – /ˌɪndɪˈspensəbl/ – Absolutely necessary.
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Well-rounded (adjective) – /wel ˈraʊndɪd/ – Having a personality that is fully developed in all aspects.
In conclusion, the topic of music education in the core curriculum is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as:
- The role of arts education in promoting creativity and innovation
- Balancing arts and STEM subjects in school curricula
- The economic impact of music education on future career prospects
Should schools integrate climate change education into all subjects is another important educational topic that you might encounter in IELTS Writing Task 2. To further improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you apply the strategies and vocabulary discussed in this article, enhancing your preparedness for the IELTS Writing Task 2.