Arts education plays a crucial role in nurturing creativity and fostering innovative thinking among students. This topic has gained significant attention in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams and is likely to appear more frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide comprehensive essay examples to help you prepare for this important subject.
Arts education fostering creativity
Analyzing the IELTS Writing Task 2 Question
Some people think that schools should spend more time teaching creative skills like art and music. Others believe that academic subjects like math and science are more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question asks you to consider two contrasting views on the importance of creative subjects versus academic subjects in schools. It’s a classic “discuss both views and give your opinion” type of question, which requires you to:
- Introduce the topic
- Discuss the view that schools should focus more on creative skills
- Discuss the view that academic subjects are more important
- Present your own opinion
- Conclude your essay
Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question – one aiming for a Band 8-9 score and another for a Band 6-7 score.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the debate between prioritizing creative skills and academic subjects in schools has become increasingly relevant. While some argue that arts and music should receive more attention, others maintain that mathematics and science are more crucial. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on this contentious issue.
Proponents of increased focus on creative subjects argue that these skills are essential for fostering innovation and personal expression. Art and music education can enhance cognitive abilities, improve emotional intelligence, and develop critical thinking skills that are valuable in various aspects of life. Moreover, in an era of automation, creative skills are becoming increasingly important in the job market, as they are less likely to be replaced by artificial intelligence.
On the other hand, advocates for prioritizing academic subjects contend that mathematics and science form the foundation of technological advancement and economic progress. These disciplines are crucial for developing analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and logical reasoning – skills that are in high demand across numerous industries. Furthermore, proficiency in these subjects is often seen as essential for pursuing higher education and securing well-paying jobs in STEM fields.
In my opinion, a balanced approach that integrates both creative and academic subjects is ideal for preparing students for the challenges of the future. While math and science are undoubtedly important, the value of arts education in fostering creativity and innovation should not be underestimated. By combining these disciplines, schools can nurture well-rounded individuals capable of tackling complex problems with both analytical and creative thinking.
In conclusion, the debate between creative and academic subjects reflects the diverse skills required in our modern society. Rather than favoring one over the other, educational institutions should strive to provide a comprehensive curriculum that equips students with both creative and analytical abilities, thereby preparing them for success in an increasingly competitive and dynamic world.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
The importance of creative skills versus academic subjects in schools is a topic of much debate. Some people believe that schools should focus more on teaching art and music, while others think math and science are more important. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support more time for creative skills say that art and music are important for students’ development. These subjects can help students express themselves and think in new ways. They also argue that creative skills are becoming more valuable in many jobs today. For example, many companies want employees who can come up with new ideas and solve problems creatively.
On the other hand, people who think academic subjects are more important argue that math and science are necessary for many careers. These subjects teach students how to think logically and solve problems. They also say that countries need more people with strong math and science skills to compete in the global economy. Many high-paying jobs in fields like engineering and technology require these skills.
In my opinion, both creative and academic subjects are important for students. I believe schools should try to balance both types of subjects in their curriculum. This way, students can develop different kinds of skills that will be useful in their future lives and careers. For example, learning art can help students think creatively in science projects, while math skills can be useful in music.
To conclude, while some people prefer creative subjects and others favor academic ones, I think a mix of both is best. Schools should aim to provide a well-rounded education that includes both creative and academic subjects. This approach will help prepare students for the various challenges they may face in the future.
(Word count: 282)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
- Introduction: Clearly state the topic and outline your essay structure.
- Body paragraphs: Discuss both views separately, providing specific examples and explanations.
- Opinion paragraph: Clearly state your opinion and support it with reasons.
- Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your opinion.
Grammar and Vocabulary Tips
For a higher band score (8-9):
- Use complex sentence structures: “While math and science are undoubtedly important, the value of arts education in fostering creativity and innovation should not be underestimated.”
- Employ advanced vocabulary: “contentious issue,” “cognitive abilities,” “artificial intelligence”
- Use a variety of linking words: “moreover,” “furthermore,” “rather than”
For a mid-range band score (6-7):
- Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
- Use topic-specific vocabulary: “curriculum,” “global economy,” “well-rounded education”
- Use basic linking words correctly: “on the other hand,” “for example,” “to conclude”
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Foster (verb) /ˈfɒstə(r)/: To encourage or promote the development of something.
- Innovative (adjective) /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/: Featuring new methods or ideas.
- Cognitive (adjective) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv/: Related to the mental process of acquiring knowledge.
- Analytical (adjective) /ˌænəˈlɪtɪkl/: Using logical reasoning to solve problems.
- Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/: The subjects comprising a course of study in a school.
- Well-rounded (adjective) /ˌwel ˈraʊndɪd/: Having a wide range of skills and experiences.
- Proficiency (noun) /prəˈfɪʃnsi/: A high degree of skill or expertise.
- Integration (noun) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃn/: The action of combining things to form a whole.
Conclusion
The Role Of Arts Education In Fostering Creativity is a significant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments and using appropriate vocabulary and structures, you can craft a compelling essay on this subject. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as the role of education in fostering innovation or the role of arts in community engagement. These related themes can help you develop a broader understanding of educational issues and improve your writing skills.
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you refine your skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
