IELTS Writing Task 2 with sample answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write at least 250 words.
Some people think the main purpose of school is to turn children into good citizens and workers, rather than to benefit them as individuals
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Sample Answer:
It is often argued that the main focus of schooling should be on producing good citizens and workers, rather than benefiting individual students. I disagree with this perspective, as I believe that providing a beneficial educational experience should be the primary goal of schooling.
Firstly, schools should prioritise the individual development of their students. While the purpose of education is to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to become productive members of society, there is more to learning than just memorising facts. It is important that students are taught to think for themselves and develop problem-solving skills that will help them in their future lives. A well-rounded education should also provide students with the opportunity to explore their interests and passions, to discover new talents and develop their creativity. This type of individual development is essential for a person’s mental and emotional wellbeing.
Secondly, by focusing on the individual needs of their students, schools can help to create good citizens and workers. Providing a good education for each student will equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to become productive members of society. For example, teaching students about the importance of respect, responsibility and kindness will help to foster a sense of community and social responsibility. Teaching students practical skills, such as communication and problem-solving, will give them the tools needed to be successful in their chosen careers.
Finally, schools can benefit society as a whole by focusing on individual student development. A well-rounded education will help to create an informed and engaged citizenry, and students who are equipped to take on the challenges of a rapidly-changing world. Schools can also encourage students to participate in the democratic process, by teaching them about the importance of civic engagement and community service.
To conclude, while it is important that schools prepare students for their future lives as citizens and workers, this should not be the only focus of schooling. Schools should also prioritise the individual development of their students, and encourage them to explore their interests and passions. By doing so, schools can not only benefit individual students, but also society as a whole.