The STEM vs Humanities debate has become increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. This topic frequently emerges in education-themed questions, particularly regarding curriculum balance and educational priorities. Let’s analyze a recent IELTS question that exemplifies this theme.
Some people think that schools should focus on teaching science and technology subjects rather than arts and literature. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Question Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on educational priorities
- Evaluate the importance of STEM vs humanities subjects
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Provide a balanced discussion while maintaining a clear stance
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
In recent years, there has been growing debate about whether schools should prioritize STEM subjects over arts and literature. While I acknowledge the crucial role of science and technology in today’s world, I strongly disagree with the notion of diminishing the importance of humanities subjects in education.
Firstly, arts and literature play a fundamental role in developing critical thinking and emotional intelligence. Through studying literature, students learn to analyze complex themes, understand different perspectives, and develop empathy – skills that are invaluable in any profession. For instance, medical professionals who study humanities alongside their scientific curriculum often demonstrate better patient communication and ethical decision-making abilities.
Furthermore, the creative skills fostered by arts education are increasingly valuable in our innovation-driven economy. Many successful tech companies actively seek employees with diverse educational backgrounds, recognizing that breakthrough innovations often emerge from combining technical expertise with creative thinking. Apple’s success, for example, is largely attributed to its fusion of technology with artistic design principles.
However, I acknowledge that STEM education is crucial for technological advancement and economic growth. Nevertheless, rather than prioritizing one over the other, schools should strive for a balanced curriculum that integrates both STEM and humanities. This approach would prepare students for a future where cross-disciplinary knowledge is increasingly important.
In conclusion, while STEM subjects are undeniably important, schools should maintain a balanced approach that values both scientific and humanistic education. This integration will produce well-rounded individuals capable of addressing complex global challenges.
Students participating in both STEM and arts activities
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
I disagree with the idea that schools should focus mainly on science and technology instead of arts and literature. Both types of subjects are important for students’ development.
Science and technology are very important in today’s world. Students need these skills to get good jobs in fields like engineering and computing. Many countries need more workers in these areas to grow their economy.
However, arts and literature are also valuable. These subjects help students become more creative and better at expressing themselves. They learn about different cultures and ways of thinking. For example, reading books helps students understand other people’s feelings and experiences.
I think schools should teach both types of subjects equally. Some students are better at science, while others prefer arts. If schools only focus on science and technology, many students might lose interest in learning.
Moreover, many jobs need both technical and creative skills. A website designer needs to know both computer programming and artistic design. A business manager needs to understand numbers but also communicate well with people.
In conclusion, I believe schools should maintain a balance between science and humanities subjects. This way, students can develop different skills they need for their future careers and lives.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “diminishing,” “fundamental,” “innovation-driven economy”
- Complex sentence structures with proper linking
- Clear progression of ideas
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6-7 Essay Features:
- Clear but simpler vocabulary
- Basic but accurate grammar
- Some development of ideas
- Limited use of complex structures
- More straightforward examples
Key Vocabulary
- innovation-driven (adj) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən drɪvən/ – motivated by new ideas and methods
- cross-disciplinary (adj) /krɒs dɪsəˈplɪnəri/ – involving multiple academic fields
- empathy (n) /ˈempəθi/ – ability to understand others’ feelings
- humanitarian (adj) /hjuːˌmænɪˈteəriən/ – concerned with improving people’s lives
- integration (n) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃən/ – combining different elements
- curriculum (n) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – subjects included in a course of study
- breakthrough (n) /ˈbreɪkθruː/ – important discovery or development
- ethical (adj) /ˈeθɪkəl/ – relating to moral principles
For practice, try writing your own essay addressing how different educational systems worldwide balance STEM and humanities education. Share your essay in the comments for feedback and discussion.
