Ielts GT Writing Task 2 Sample 4

Children should be prepared for the current world through schooling. Music and the arts should be taken off the school curriculum so that pupils can focus on more practical subjects like computer technology. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

While practical subjects like computer technology are essential for equipping children with skills relevant to the modern world, removing music and the arts from the school curriculum would be detrimental to their holistic development. This essay will argue that while practical subjects hold value, the inclusion of music and the arts in the school curriculum is vital for fostering creativity, emotional intelligence, and well-rounded individuals.

Removing music and the arts from the school curriculum neglects the significant benefits they offer to children’s development. Firstly, engaging in music and the arts enhances creativity, allowing children to think outside the box and develop innovative problem-solving skills. For example, composing music requires imagination and the ability to arrange sounds in unique ways. Secondly, participation in artistic activities fosters emotional intelligence, enabling children to express and understand their emotions effectively. This emotional awareness is crucial for building empathy and healthy relationships in an increasingly interconnected world. Furthermore, music and the arts provide a form of self-expression that can boost self-esteem and confidence, helping children develop their individual identities.

While practical subjects like computer technology are undeniably important in today’s world, an education system that solely focuses on such subjects neglects the holistic development of children. Firstly, music and the arts cultivate critical thinking and analytical skills. Learning an instrument or studying visual arts requires discipline, perseverance, and attention to detail. These skills can be transferred to other academic disciplines and future career paths. Secondly, music and the arts contribute to the appreciation of cultural heritage and diversity, fostering tolerance and open-mindedness. By exploring different forms of artistic expression, children gain a broader perspective on the world around them, developing a sense of global citizenship.

In conclusion, while practical subjects like computer technology play a crucial role in preparing children for the current world, eliminating music and the arts from the school curriculum would be counterproductive. Music and the arts contribute to the holistic development of children, nurturing their creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking skills. A well-rounded education that includes these subjects is essential for producing individuals who can navigate the complexities of the modern world with empathy, innovation, and cultural understanding.

Note: This is a sample answer, and there are various perspectives and sentences that can be used to address the topic of whether music and the arts should be removed from the school curriculum in favor of practical subjects like computer technology.