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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Should schools teach practical life skills, such as cooking and finance, alongside academic subjects?

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1712273055

Task: Should schools teach practical life skills, such as cooking and finance, alongside academic subjects?

Model Answer:

In recent years, there has been a growing debate about whether or not schools should incorporate practical life skills, such as cooking and financial management, into their curriculum alongside traditional academic subjects. While some argue that these practical skills are essential for students' overall development and preparation for the real world, others believe that academics should remain the primary focus of education. This essay will examine both perspectives in order to provide a comprehensive analysis of this issue.

On one hand, it can be argued that teaching practical life skills is crucial for students' personal growth and success in the future. For instance, learning how to cook not only helps individuals become self-reliant but also promotes a healthy lifestyle by encouraging them to prepare nutritious meals rather than relying on fast food or processed items. Additionally, financial management is an important skill that enables people to make informed decisions about budgeting, saving, and investing their money, which are all vital aspects of adult life. By providing students with the opportunity to acquire these skills, schools can help them become well-rounded individuals who are better equipped to navigate the challenges they will face in their personal lives.

On the other hand, some critics argue that schools should focus primarily on academic subjects, as these are essential for developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities that are necessary for success in higher education and the workforce. They contend that practical life skills can be learned outside of the classroom through extracurricular activities or hands-on experiences with family members and community resources. By focusing on academics, schools can ensure that students have a strong foundation in core subjects such as math, science, language arts, and social studies, which are fundamental to their future careers regardless of their chosen field.

In conclusion, while it is important for students to gain practical life skills like cooking and financial management, the primary focus of education should remain on academic subjects. By ensuring that students have a strong foundation in core academic areas, schools can equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed not only in their personal lives but also in their future careers. While it is beneficial for students to learn practical life skills outside of the classroom, these skills should be complementary rather than replacing the importance of academic subjects.

Overall score: Band 8.5 - The essay presents a clear and balanced argument, demonstrating an understanding of both perspectives and providing relevant examples. However, it could have been slightly more analytical in its examination of the topic, exploring potential consequences and challenges related to integrating practical life skills into the curriculum.

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