Physical education’s impact on childhood obesity is a crucial topic that has appeared frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on analysis of past exam trends and expert predictions, this subject is likely to continue being a popular choice for test-makers due to its global relevance and societal importance. Let’s explore a real IELTS question on this theme and examine sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Others believe that school should only teach academic subjects. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to discuss two contrasting views on the role of schools in education:
- Schools should teach children how to be good members of society.
- Schools should focus solely on academic subjects.
Candidates must explore both perspectives and provide their own opinion. This topic relates to our main keyword as physical education can be seen as part of teaching children to be good members of society by promoting health and combating obesity.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Education plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of society, and there is ongoing debate about what schools should prioritize in their curricula. While some argue that schools should focus on creating good citizens, others believe that academic subjects should be the sole focus. In my opinion, a balanced approach incorporating both elements is crucial for holistic development.
Proponents of schools teaching societal values argue that education should extend beyond academic knowledge. They believe that schools have a responsibility to mold children into responsible citizens who contribute positively to society. This approach often includes subjects like physical education, which is crucial in combating childhood obesity and promoting overall health. By learning about teamwork, fair play, and the importance of an active lifestyle, students develop essential life skills that benefit both themselves and society.
On the other hand, those who advocate for a purely academic focus argue that schools should concentrate on subjects like mathematics, sciences, and languages. They contend that these subjects provide the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for future career success and economic prosperity. This perspective emphasizes the importance of academic excellence in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.
In my view, a comprehensive education should balance both academic rigor and societal values. Schools have a unique opportunity to shape well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also socially conscious and physically healthy. For instance, integrating physical education into the curriculum not only promotes healthy lifestyles but also teaches valuable lessons about perseverance, goal-setting, and self-discipline that are applicable across all areas of life.
In conclusion, while academic subjects are undoubtedly important, schools should not neglect their role in developing good members of society. A balanced approach that incorporates both academic and social education, including physical education, will best prepare students for the challenges of the modern world and contribute to a healthier, more cohesive society.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
There is a debate about what schools should teach students. Some people think schools should teach children how to be good members of society, while others believe schools should only focus on academic subjects. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support teaching children to be good members of society believe that education is not just about academic knowledge. They think schools should teach values, social skills, and good behavior. This can include subjects like physical education, which helps fight childhood obesity and teaches teamwork. By learning these things, students can become better citizens who contribute to society.
On the other hand, some people argue that schools should only teach academic subjects like math, science, and languages. They believe these subjects are most important for getting good jobs and being successful in the future. They think that other skills can be learned outside of school, and that school time should be used only for academic learning.
In my opinion, schools should teach both academic subjects and how to be good members of society. I think this is important because students need both types of knowledge to be successful in life. For example, physical education is important not just for health, but also for learning about teamwork and discipline, which are useful in all areas of life.
To conclude, while academic subjects are very important, schools should also teach students how to be good members of society. This balanced approach will help students become well-rounded individuals who can succeed in their careers and contribute positively to their communities.
(Word count: 261)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
People have different ideas about what schools should teach. Some think schools should teach children to be good in society. Others think schools should only teach subjects like math and science. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
People who want schools to teach about being good in society think it’s important. They say schools should teach values and how to behave well. This can include things like physical education, which helps stop children from getting fat. It also teaches working together. These things help students be better people in society.
But some people think schools should only teach subjects like math, science, and languages. They think these subjects are most important for getting jobs later. They believe other things can be learned at home or in other places.
I think schools should teach both things. Students need to learn subjects, but they also need to learn how to be good people. For example, physical education is good for health and also teaches teamwork. These are important for all parts of life.
In conclusion, I believe schools should teach academic subjects and also how to be good in society. This will help students be ready for work and life.
(Word count: 196)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills with:
- Clear organization and logical flow of ideas
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- In-depth analysis of both viewpoints
- A well-developed personal opinion with supporting examples
- Relevant use of the topic of physical education to illustrate points
- Effective use of cohesive devices and a wide range of structures
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows good writing skills with:
- Clear overall structure
- Good vocabulary with some attempts at more complex language
- Discussion of both viewpoints
- A clear personal opinion
- Some examples to support ideas
- Generally good use of cohesive devices and a mix of sentence structures
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay demonstrates adequate writing skills with:
- Basic organization of ideas
- Simple vocabulary and sentence structures
- Some discussion of both viewpoints
- A personal opinion stated
- Limited use of examples
- Basic cohesive devices and simple sentence structures
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Pivotal (adj.) /ˈpɪv.ə.təl/ – critically important
- Curricula (n.) /kəˈrɪk.jə.lə/ – plural of curriculum, subjects comprising a course of study
- Holistic (adj.) /həʊˈlɪs.tɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected
- Proponents (n.) /prəˈpəʊ.nənts/ – people who advocate for something
- Mold (v.) /məʊld/ – shape or influence
- Advocate (v.) /ˈæd.və.keɪt/ – publicly recommend or support
- Rigour (n.) /ˈrɪɡ.ər/ – the quality of being extremely thorough and careful
- Perseverance (n.) /ˌpɜː.sɪˈvɪə.rəns/ – persistence in doing something despite difficulty
- Cohesive (adj.) /kəʊˈhiː.sɪv/ – characterized by unity
- Well-rounded (adj.) /ˌwel ˈraʊn.dɪd/ – having a personality that is fully developed in all aspects
In conclusion, the topic of physical education’s role in combating childhood obesity is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future exam questions might explore related themes such as government policies on school curricula, the balance between academic and practical subjects, or the role of outdoor activities in child development. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on these topics, focusing on clear structure, balanced arguments, and personal opinions supported by relevant examples.
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare you for success in the exam.