Real Writing Test 10/05: The Importance of Schools in Education

Writing Task

Some people believe that schools are unnecessary, and that learning can be done at home. Do you agree or disagree with this view?

Task Analysis

This task is an “Agree or Disagree (AD)” type essay, and asks us to decide whether we agree or disagree with the idea that schools are unnecessary and that children can learn effectively at home. We need to clearly state our position and support it with solid arguments.

It is easier to find more arguments to support the advantages of learning at school, so we will use an unbalanced format with three body paragraphs to deliver this essay. The first two body paragraphs will focus on the advantages of schools, such as social interaction and structured learning led by qualified teachers. These are key aspects that home learning cannot easily replicate. In the third body paragraph, we will briefly acknowledge the benefits of home learning, such as flexibility, but argue that these are outweighed by the unique benefits that schools offer. 

 

Writing Sample

It is true that modern technology provides many resources for home learning. However, I disagree with the view that schools are no longer necessary. I believe that schools offer unique benefits that cannot be fully replaced by home-based education.

First, schools provide an environment that encourages social interaction, which is essential for children’s development. At school, students learn how to work with others, communicate, and solve problems in a group. These collaboration abilities are just as important as academic learning because they help children become well-rounded individuals. For example, participating in group activities, sports, and discussions allows students to build teamwork skills and learn how to handle different opinions, which they might not experience in a home setting.

Second, schools offer a structured learning system guided by qualified teachers. Teachers are trained to deliver lessons in ways that cater to different learning styles, ensuring that all students grasp the material. This systematic approach is difficult to replicate at home, where parents may lack the expertise or time to effectively teach all subjects. Moreover, schools have access to a wide range of resources such as laboratories, libraries, and extracurricular activities that enrich the learning experience. These facilities give students hands-on experience, especially in subjects like science and art, which is difficult to achieve at home.

Although learning at home can provide some students with more flexibility and customization, it lacks the community atmosphere that schools could give. Home learning often means limited opportunities for students to engage with peers, and they may miss out on developing critical group skills. While online platforms can offer some level of interaction, it is not the same as in-person communication, where children learn body language, tone, and other social cues.

In the end, while home learning may have some advantages, the benefits of schools far outweigh the drawbacks. Schools provide an environment where children can grow academically and socially, preparing them for life in ways that home education cannot fully match.

learning@ieltswriting.org

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With 20 years of experience in IELTS English teaching and an IT enthusiast.

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