The topic of education’s role in fostering innovation and creativity is a popular and recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and the increasing global focus on innovation in education, this topic is likely to appear frequently in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been seen in recent IELTS tests and analyze it in depth.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Others believe that schools should focus on academic subjects to prepare students for university or work. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question directly relates to the role of education in fostering innovation and creativity by presenting two contrasting views on the purpose of schooling. Let’s break it down:
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View 1: Schools should teach children to be good members of society
- This perspective emphasizes social skills, citizenship, and character development
- It indirectly supports creativity and innovation through social engagement
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View 2: Schools should focus on academic subjects
- This view prioritizes traditional academic knowledge
- It may support innovation through foundational knowledge in various fields
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Task: Discuss both views and give your own opinion
- You need to explore both perspectives
- Provide your personal stance on the issue
Sample Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Sample
Education plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of society, and there are differing opinions on what schools should prioritize in their curricula. While some argue that schools should focus on developing good citizens, others believe that academic subjects should take precedence. In my opinion, a balanced approach that incorporates both elements is crucial for fostering innovation and preparing students for the challenges of the modern world.
Those who advocate for schools to teach children how to be good members of society emphasize the importance of social skills, ethical behavior, and civic responsibility. This approach can cultivate creativity and innovation by encouraging students to think critically about societal issues and collaborate with others to find solutions. For instance, project-based learning that addresses community problems can inspire students to develop innovative ideas while also learning the value of teamwork and social responsibility.
On the other hand, proponents of a focus on academic subjects argue that a strong foundation in core disciplines is essential for success in higher education and the workforce. This perspective supports innovation by providing students with the knowledge and tools necessary to push boundaries in various fields. For example, a solid grounding in science and mathematics can lead to breakthroughs in technology and engineering, driving innovation in industries crucial to economic growth.
In my view, the ideal educational approach should strike a balance between these two perspectives. Schools should aim to produce well-rounded individuals who are both academically competent and socially responsible. This can be achieved by integrating character education and civic engagement into the academic curriculum. For instance, a science class could include discussions on the ethical implications of new technologies, fostering both academic knowledge and social awareness.
Moreover, this balanced approach is more likely to nurture innovation and creativity. By combining academic rigor with social consciousness, students can develop the critical thinking skills and empathy necessary to address complex global challenges. This holistic education prepares them not only for university or work but also for leadership roles in an increasingly interconnected world.
In conclusion, while both viewpoints have merit, I believe that schools should strive to incorporate elements of both academic excellence and social responsibility in their curricula. This balanced approach will not only prepare students for their future careers but also equip them with the skills and mindset needed to drive innovation and positive change in society.
(Word count: 378)
Band 6-7 Essay Sample
The role of schools in preparing students for their future has been a topic of debate. Some people believe that schools should focus on teaching children to be good members of society, while others think that academic subjects should be the main focus to prepare students for university or work. In my opinion, both aspects are important and should be included in the school curriculum.
Those who support teaching children to be good members of society argue that schools should develop social skills and moral values. This can help students become responsible citizens who contribute positively to their communities. For example, schools can organize community service projects or teach subjects like civic education to help students understand their role in society.
On the other hand, people who believe in focusing on academic subjects argue that this prepares students better for higher education and future careers. They think that strong knowledge in subjects like math, science, and languages is essential for success in university and the job market. This view suggests that academic skills are more important for students’ future opportunities.
In my opinion, schools should try to balance both these aspects in their teaching. I believe that academic knowledge is important, but being a good member of society is equally valuable. Schools can integrate both by teaching academic subjects in ways that also develop social skills and awareness. For example, group projects in science classes can help students learn the subject while also improving their teamwork and communication skills.
Moreover, this balanced approach can foster innovation and creativity. When students learn to apply their academic knowledge to real-world problems, they can develop innovative solutions. At the same time, understanding their role in society can inspire them to use their skills and knowledge for the greater good.
To conclude, while both views have their merits, I believe that the best approach is to combine academic education with lessons on being good members of society. This will help create well-rounded individuals who are prepared for both their personal careers and their roles as responsible citizens.
(Word count: 329)
Band 5-6 Essay Sample
In today’s world, there are different ideas about what schools should teach students. Some people think schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Other people believe schools should focus on academic subjects to prepare students for university or jobs. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
First, some people say schools should teach children to be good members of society. This means teaching things like how to be kind, how to help others, and how to follow rules. This is important because it helps make society better. When children learn these things, they can grow up to be good adults who help their community.
Second, other people think schools should focus on academic subjects. This means teaching subjects like math, science, and languages. They say this is important because it helps students do well in university and get good jobs. When students learn these subjects, they can have more opportunities in the future.
In my opinion, I think both ideas are important. Schools should teach academic subjects and also teach children how to be good members of society. This is because both things are needed in life. Students need to know academic subjects to get good jobs, but they also need to know how to be good people.
I think schools can do both things at the same time. For example, when teaching science, teachers can also talk about how science can help society. This way, students learn the subject and also learn about being good members of society.
In conclusion, I believe schools should teach both academic subjects and how to be good members of society. This will help students be successful in their studies and jobs, and also help them be good people in their communities.
(Word count: 287)
Explaining the Scores for Each Sample Essay
Band 8-9 Essay Explanation
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting a personal opinion. It provides well-developed ideas and relevant examples.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively, such as “While some argue”, “On the other hand”, and “Moreover”.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise, with phrases like “pivotal role”, “civic responsibility”, and “holistic education”. There’s a good range of uncommon words used appropriately.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a wide range of complex structures accurately. It demonstrates flexibility and precise use of grammar.
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Development and Support: Each point is well-developed with clear explanations and relevant examples, showing depth of critical thinking.
Band 6-7 Essay Explanation
This essay shows competent writing skills but lacks some of the sophistication of the higher band:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task and presents a clear position. However, the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated. Paragraphing is appropriate.
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Lexical Resource: There’s a good range of vocabulary, but it’s less precise and varied compared to the higher band essay. Some attempts at less common vocabulary are present.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are fewer complex structures compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Development and Support: Ideas are supported with examples, but they are less elaborate and show less critical thinking compared to the higher band essay.
Band 5-6 Essay Explanation
This essay demonstrates basic competence but has several limitations:
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Task Response: The essay addresses the task, but the ideas are simple and less developed. The writer’s position is present but not as clearly articulated.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is limited and sometimes repetitive (e.g., frequent use of “First”, “Second”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task but limited in range. There are few attempts at using less common vocabulary.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay mainly uses simple sentence structures with some attempts at complex sentences. There’s generally good control of grammar, but the range is limited.
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Development and Support: Ideas are present but not fully extended. Examples are basic and lack the depth seen in higher band essays.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Pivotal (adjective) /ˈpɪvətl/ – of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else
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Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – the subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college
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Civic responsibility (noun phrase) /ˈsɪvɪk rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – the duties and obligations of citizens to their society
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Holistic (adjective) /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole
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Innovative (adjective) /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ – featuring new methods; advanced and original
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Empathy (noun) /ˈempəθi/ – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another
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Rigorous (adjective) /ˈrɪɡərəs/ – extremely thorough and careful
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Interdisciplinary (adjective) /ˌɪntədɪsəˈplɪnəri/ – relating to more than one branch of knowledge
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Critical thinking (noun phrase) /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment
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Project-based learning (noun phrase) /ˈprɒdʒekt beɪst ˈlɜːnɪŋ/ – a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period to investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging, and complex question, problem, or challenge
Conclusion
The role of education in fostering innovation and creativity is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding how to approach questions on this theme and structure your essays effectively, you can improve your chances of achieving a high band score. Remember to balance your discussion of different viewpoints, provide relevant examples, and express your own opinion clearly.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The impact of technology on education and creativity
- The role of arts education in fostering innovation
- How standardized testing affects creativity in schools
- The importance of extracurricular activities in developing innovative thinking
We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare for the exam.
For more insights on how education can promote innovation, you might find our article on how education can promote innovation helpful. Additionally, to understand the broader impact of education on society, check out our piece on how education can reduce income inequality.