In recent years, the topic of whether sports should be a mandatory subject in schools has gained significant attention in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject has appeared in various forms across multiple test versions, reflecting its relevance to contemporary educational debates. As an experienced IELTS instructor, I anticipate this theme will continue to be a popular choice for examiners in the foreseeable future.

Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question that encapsulates this topic:

Some people think that sports should be a compulsory subject in schools, while others believe it should be optional. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question presents a balanced approach, asking candidates to explore both perspectives on mandatory sports in schools before providing their personal stance. Let’s break down the key elements of this task and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Analysis of the Question

The question can be divided into three main parts:

1. Discuss the view that sports should be compulsory in schools
2. Discuss the view that sports should be optional in schools
3. Provide your own opinion on the matter

To effectively answer this question, candidates must address all three aspects, providing a balanced discussion of both viewpoints before concluding with their personal opinion. This structure aligns with the importance of sports for physical and mental health while also considering potential drawbacks of mandatory sports programs.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that effectively addresses all aspects of the question:

The role of sports in education has been a subject of debate, with some advocating for its mandatory inclusion in school curricula while others argue for it to remain optional. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint on the matter.

Proponents of compulsory sports in schools argue that physical activity is crucial for students’ overall development. Regular participation in sports can improve physical health, reduce the risk of obesity, and enhance cognitive functions, thereby contributing to better academic performance. Moreover, team sports foster important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and discipline, which are valuable in both personal and professional spheres. By making sports mandatory, schools ensure that all students, regardless of their natural inclinations, benefit from these advantages.

On the other hand, those who support optional sports programs contend that forcing students to participate in physical activities may be counterproductive. Not all students have the same interests or physical capabilities, and mandatory sports could lead to stress, anxiety, or a negative association with physical activity for some. Additionally, schools with limited resources might struggle to provide quality sports programs for all students, potentially compromising the effectiveness of such initiatives. Advocates of this view argue that students should have the freedom to choose activities that align with their interests and strengths.

In my opinion, while I recognize the merits of both arguments, I believe that a balanced approach would be most beneficial. Schools should incorporate a core physical education curriculum that includes a variety of activities to cater to different interests and abilities. This could include traditional sports, fitness classes, and alternative physical activities like yoga or dance. By offering a diverse range of options within a mandatory framework, schools can ensure that all students engage in regular physical activity while still allowing for some degree of choice and personalization.

In conclusion, the debate over mandatory sports in schools highlights the complex relationship between physical education and overall student development. A well-designed, inclusive approach to physical education can harness the benefits of sports while addressing the concerns of those who advocate for optional participation. Ultimately, the goal should be to foster a lifelong appreciation for physical activity and its myriad benefits among all students.

(Word count: 345)

IELTS Writing Task 2: Students playing various sports

Explanation of Band 8-9 Score

This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:

1. Coherent structure: The essay follows a clear four-paragraph structure, addressing both viewpoints before presenting a personal opinion.

2. Balanced argument: Both perspectives are discussed thoroughly, with specific examples and reasoning for each.

3. Lexical resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, such as “cognitive functions,” “counterproductive,” and “personalization.”

4. Grammatical range and accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used effectively throughout the essay, with no noticeable errors.

5. Task response: All parts of the question are fully addressed, with a clear position presented in the conclusion.

6. Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow logically, with effective use of cohesive devices such as “moreover,” “on the other hand,” and “ultimately.”

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response

Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

The question of whether sports should be a mandatory subject in schools or remain optional is a topic of much debate. This essay will discuss both sides of the argument and give my opinion.

Those who support making sports compulsory in schools say it has many benefits. Firstly, regular exercise is important for students’ health and can help prevent obesity. Secondly, playing sports can teach valuable skills like teamwork and leadership, which are useful in life. Also, some people believe that sports can help students do better in their studies by improving their concentration and reducing stress.

However, others argue that sports should be optional. They say that not all students enjoy sports or are good at them, and forcing them to participate might make them dislike physical activity. Another point is that some schools may not have enough money or facilities to provide good sports programs for everyone. Additionally, students might prefer to spend their time on other activities or subjects they find more interesting or useful for their future careers.

In my opinion, I think sports should be a mandatory subject in schools, but with some flexibility. Schools could offer a variety of physical activities to suit different interests and abilities, not just traditional sports. This way, all students can benefit from regular exercise and learn important life skills, while still having some choice in what they do.

To conclude, while there are arguments for both mandatory and optional sports in schools, I believe a balanced approach is best. By making sports compulsory but offering diverse options, schools can ensure students stay healthy and develop important skills without feeling forced into activities they don’t enjoy.

(Word count: 276)

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:

1. Task response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and providing a personal opinion.

2. Coherence and cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with separate paragraphs for each viewpoint and the writer’s opinion. However, the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited.

3. Lexical resource: The vocabulary used is generally appropriate, but lacks the sophistication and range seen in higher band scores.

4. Grammatical range and accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though there is room for more varied structures.

5. Development of ideas: While the main points are presented, they could be elaborated on more fully with specific examples or deeper analysis.

This essay effectively addresses the should sports be mandatory in schools debate, but lacks the depth and linguistic sophistication of the Band 8-9 essay.

IELTS Writing Task 2: Students discussing sports curriculum

Key Vocabulary for this Topic

Here are some useful vocabulary items related to this topic, along with their definitions and pronunciations:

1. Mandatory (adjective) /ˈmændətɔːri/: Required by law or rules; compulsory.

2. Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/: The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.

3. Physical education (noun) /ˈfɪzɪkl ˌedʒuˈkeɪʃn/: Instruction in physical exercise and games, especially in schools.

4. Obesity (noun) /əʊˈbiːsəti/: The condition of being grossly fat or overweight.

5. Cognitive (adjective) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv/: Related to the mental processes of perception, memory, judgment, and reasoning.

6. Counterproductive (adjective) /ˌkaʊntəprəˈdʌktɪv/: Having the opposite of the desired effect; tending to hinder the achievement of a goal.

7. Initiative (noun) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/: The ability to assess and initiate things independently; an act or strategy intended to resolve a difficulty or improve a situation.

8. Personalization (noun) /ˌpɜːsənəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/: The action of designing or producing something to meet someone’s individual requirements.

These vocabulary items can help elevate your essay and demonstrate a strong command of English when discussing should sports programs be mandatory in higher education or related topics.

Conclusion

The debate over whether sports should be a mandatory subject in schools is likely to remain a relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, candidates should practice discussing both sides of the argument and formulating a clear, balanced opinion. Consider exploring related topics such as should physical education be mandatory in schools to broaden your understanding and vocabulary on this subject.

For additional practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or a similar one, such as:

Some people believe that physical education should be a mandatory subject throughout a student’s entire school career, while others think it should only be required in primary school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates. This active engagement can significantly enhance your writing skills and preparation for the IELTS exam.