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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Should schools eliminate grades and standardized testing?

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Topic: Should schools eliminate grades and standardized testing?

Model Answer:

In recent years, there has been an ongoing debate about whether schools should eliminate grades and standardized testing. Some people argue that these methods are essential in evaluating students' progress and academic performance, while others contend that they can be detrimental to a student's overall development. In this essay, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of grading systems and standardized testing, and ultimately argue in favor of retaining them as crucial tools for assessing educational outcomes.

On one hand, proponents of eliminating grades and standardized testing assert that these systems create an overly competitive environment that can be detrimental to a student's mental health and well-being. They argue that the pressure to perform well on exams and receive high grades can lead to stress, anxiety, and even burnout. Moreover, opponents of standardized testing claim that it is biased against students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds or those with disabilities, as these individuals may not have access to the same resources or support systems as their more privileged peers.

On the other hand, supporters of grading systems and standardized testing maintain that they provide valuable feedback for both students and teachers. Grades serve as a measure of academic achievement, allowing educators to identify areas where a student may need additional support or intervention. Furthermore, standardized tests can help ensure that educational standards are met across different schools and regions, thereby promoting equity in the education system.

In conclusion, while it is true that grades and standardized testing have potential downsides, such as causing stress and perpetuating existing social inequalities, they also offer significant benefits in terms of monitoring student progress and ensuring consistent educational standards. As a result, it would be unwise to eliminate these assessment methods entirely, but rather, efforts should be focused on refining and improving them to better serve the diverse needs of students.

Overall score for the model answer: Band 7.5

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