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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Should students be grouped by ability in schools?

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Topic: Should students be grouped by ability in schools?

Model Answer:

In contemporary educational systems, the process of organizing students into groups based on their academic abilities has become a matter of significant debate. While some argue that ability-based grouping allows for more individualized instruction and promotes academic success, others contend that it perpetuates social inequality and stifles creativity. This essay will examine both perspectives in order to determine the most effective method of organizing students within educational institutions.

On one hand, proponents of ability-based grouping argue that it facilitates a more targeted approach to education, enabling teachers to provide customized instruction tailored to each student's specific needs and strengths. By placing students with similar abilities in the same classroom, educators can focus on delivering content at an appropriate level, ensuring that students are challenged without becoming overwhelmed. Additionally, research has shown that students who are placed in ability-based groups tend to perform better academically than those in mixed-ability classes, as they are able to engage more effectively with the material and receive targeted support when needed (National Research Council, 2012).

Conversely, opponents of ability grouping argue that it can exacerbate social disparities and create a self-fulfilling prophecy in which students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds are disproportionately assigned to lower-ability groups. This not only limits their academic growth but also perpetuates stereotypes surrounding the capabilities of different socioeconomic groups (Oakes et al., 1992). Furthermore, critics suggest that ability grouping may stifle creativity and innovation by discouraging students from collaborating with peers who possess different strengths and perspectives. In a diverse classroom setting, students are encouraged to learn from one another and develop problem-solving skills that are essential for success in the 21st century workforce (Labaree, 2006).

In conclusion, while ability-based grouping may offer certain academic benefits by allowing teachers to provide targeted instruction, it is crucial to consider the potential social implications of this practice. Ultimately, educational systems should strive to create an inclusive learning environment that not only challenges students intellectually but also fosters a sense of belonging and mutual respect among all learners.

IELTS Band Score:
- Task Response: 9
- Coherence and Cohesion: 8.5
- Lexical Resource: 8
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8.5

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