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

IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1712288526

Task: Should students be grouped by ability in schools?

Model Answer:

In today's increasingly competitive educational environment, there has been a growing debate about whether students should be grouped by their abilities in schools. Some argue that this practice can lead to more effective learning outcomes, while others believe it could exacerbate social and academic inequality. This essay will examine both perspectives and conclude with the potential benefits and drawbacks of ability-based grouping.

On one hand, proponents of ability-based grouping assert that students learn best when they are taught at a level appropriate to their individual abilities. This approach allows teachers to deliver lessons tailored to each student's needs, resulting in a more effective learning experience. For example, students who struggle with certain subjects can receive additional support and attention from the teacher, while gifted students can be challenged and stimulated through advanced material and activities. Moreover, ability-based grouping can encourage peer learning and collaboration among students of similar abilities, fostering a supportive environment where all learners feel comfortable asking questions and sharing ideas.

However, opponents of this practice argue that it can contribute to the creation of an "us versus them" mentality, where students from different ability groups are pitted against each other, leading to a self-fulfilling prophecy in which lower-ability students may begin to believe they are less capable. Additionally, critics claim that ability-based grouping can exacerbate social and academic inequality by disproportionately affecting low-income students who may lack access to resources and support at home. In some cases, this could result in a self-perpetuating cycle of disadvantage where lower-ability students are continually placed in groups with fewer resources, thereby reinforcing existing disparities.

In conclusion, while ability-based grouping has the potential to improve learning outcomes for students at both ends of the ability spectrum, it also raises concerns about the potential for exacerbating social and academic inequality. To address these issues, schools should implement a balanced approach that incorporates elements of ability-based grouping with a strong emphasis on ensuring equal access to resources and support for all students, regardless of their abilities or socioeconomic backgrounds.

Score: Band 9

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