The topic of whether schools should prioritize practical skills over theory has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on analysis of past exam questions and current educational trends, this topic is likely to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a specific question related to this theme and explore sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that schools should teach children practical skills, such as car maintenance or managing bank accounts, instead of academic subjects. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question asks for your opinion on whether schools should replace academic subjects with practical skills. Key points to consider:
- The main focus is on the balance between practical skills and academic subjects.
- Examples of practical skills are provided: car maintenance and managing bank accounts.
- You need to state your level of agreement or disagreement.
- You should support your opinion with reasons and examples.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the debate over prioritizing practical skills versus academic subjects in schools has gained significant traction. While I acknowledge the importance of practical skills, I firmly believe that academic subjects should remain the cornerstone of education, with practical skills serving as complementary elements.
Firstly, academic subjects provide a crucial foundation for critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Subjects like mathematics, sciences, and literature cultivate analytical skills that are transferable across various life situations. For instance, the logical reasoning developed through mathematics can be applied to financial decision-making, while the analytical skills honed in literature classes enhance communication and empathy – essential traits in any professional setting.
Moreover, academic subjects offer a broad knowledge base that is vital for understanding the world and making informed decisions. History teaches us about past mistakes and successes, allowing us to navigate contemporary challenges more effectively. Similarly, sciences provide insights into technological advancements and environmental issues, enabling students to become responsible global citizens.
That being said, I do not dismiss the value of practical skills. Instead, I propose that schools should integrate practical applications into academic curricula. For example, physics classes could include basic car maintenance principles, while mathematics could incorporate lessons on managing bank accounts. This approach would provide context to theoretical knowledge and demonstrate its real-world relevance.
Furthermore, extracurricular activities and elective courses can be excellent avenues for teaching practical skills without compromising the academic core. Schools could offer workshops or after-school programs focusing on life skills, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.
In conclusion, while practical skills are undoubtedly important, they should not replace academic subjects but rather complement them. By maintaining a strong academic foundation and incorporating practical applications, schools can equip students with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for success in the modern world.
Balancing practical skills and academic subjects in modern education
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that align with Band 8-9 criteria:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a well-developed argument.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Sophisticated words and phrases like “cornerstone,” “transferable,” and “analytical skills” enhance the essay’s quality.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a wide range of complex structures used accurately. There is a good mix of simple and complex sentences with minimal errors.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether schools should focus on teaching practical skills instead of academic subjects is a complex one. In my opinion, both practical skills and academic subjects are important, but I believe academic subjects should still be the main focus in schools.
Firstly, academic subjects like math, science, and literature are essential for developing critical thinking skills. These subjects help students learn how to analyze information and solve problems, which are useful in many areas of life. For example, the logical thinking learned in math class can help with managing finances later in life.
However, I agree that practical skills are also important. Skills like car maintenance and managing bank accounts are useful in daily life. Schools could include some of these skills in their curriculum, perhaps as part of existing subjects or as extra classes. This would help students be more prepared for adult life.
One way to balance this could be to have core academic subjects for most of the school day, with some time set aside for practical skills training. This could be done through workshops or special classes that teach things like basic financial management or simple home repairs.
It’s also worth noting that many academic subjects do have practical applications. For instance, physics can help understand how cars work, and math is used in managing bank accounts. Teachers could make an effort to show these connections more clearly in their lessons.
In conclusion, while practical skills are valuable, I believe schools should not replace academic subjects with them. Instead, schools should find ways to teach both, with a stronger focus on academics. This approach would give students a well-rounded education that prepares them for both further studies and practical aspects of adult life.
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good qualities that align with Band 6-7 criteria:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position, though the argument could be more fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression of ideas, though some paragraphs could be better linked.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used appropriately, though it lacks the sophistication of higher band scores.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: There is a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control, though more complex structures could be used.
Key Vocabulary
- Cornerstone (noun) /ˈkɔːnəstəʊn/: A fundamental or essential part
- Traction (noun) /ˈtrækʃn/: Acceptance or popularity
- Cultivate (verb) /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/: To develop or improve
- Hone (verb) /həʊn/: To refine or perfect
- Transferable (adjective) /trænsˈfɜːrəbl/: Able to be moved or applied to different contexts
- Curricula (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələ/: Plural of curriculum; courses offered by an educational institution
- Extracurricular (adjective) /ˌekstrəkəˈrɪkjələ(r)/: Outside the regular curriculum
- Well-rounded (adjective) /ˌwel ˈraʊndɪd/: Having a wide range of skills or qualities
Students engaged in hands-on learning of practical skills
Conclusion
The debate over prioritizing practical skills or academic subjects in schools is likely to remain a relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. When approaching this type of question, remember to:
- Clearly state your position
- Provide balanced arguments
- Use specific examples to support your points
- Consider the long-term implications of educational choices
To further practice, try writing your own essay on this topic:
Some educators believe that practical skills like cooking and budgeting should be given more emphasis in school curricula. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
Feel free to share your practice essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
