Balancing Academic and Creative Subjects in Schools
The prompt
Some educators believe that art and creative subjects like drawing and painting are just as important as academic subjects like math and science for a child's development. Others think schools should focus more on academic subjects. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
20 minutes. Write 200 to 300 words. A BandLadder practice prompt, not a recalled exam question.
Plan before you write
- Position:
- I believe that a balanced curriculum integrating both creative and academic subjects is essential for holistic student development.
- Paragraph 2:
- Academic subjects provide the fundamental knowledge required for professional success and technological advancement.
- Paragraph 3:
- Creative subjects foster critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and innovation which are vital for personal growth.
- Give each view its own paragraph, explained fairly even where you disagree.
- Say where you stand in the introduction and again in the conclusion; the question asks for your opinion.
- Do not merge the two views into one paragraph; examiners look for both to be developed.
Sample essay
The debate regarding whether schools should prioritize academic disciplines or include creative arts in their curricula remains a significant topic in education. While some argue that focus should rest solely on mathematics and science, others contend that art and painting are equally vital for a child's development. This essay will discuss both perspectives before explaining why a balanced approach is the most effective.
Proponents of a curriculum dominated by academic subjects argue that proficiency in fields like mathematics and science is the primary driver of economic progress. These disciplines provide students with the logical reasoning and technical skills necessary to excel in high-demand industries such as engineering and medicine. For instance, rigorous training in STEM subjects ensures that the next generation remains competitive in an increasingly globalized and technology-driven workforce.
Conversely, supporters of creative subjects emphasize the role of arts in cultivating essential life skills. Engaging in drawing or painting allows students to develop emotional intelligence, improve fine motor skills, and foster innovative thinking. For example, studies have shown that students involved in creative pursuits often demonstrate superior problem-solving capabilities and higher levels of engagement in their academic coursework. By nurturing creativity, schools equip students with the ability to think outside the box, a trait that is highly valued in any professional environment.
In conclusion, while academic subjects are indispensable for technical expertise, creative subjects provide the tools for individual expression and cognitive flexibility. I believe that integrating these disciplines creates a well-rounded educational experience. By valuing both, schools can better prepare students to navigate the complexities of life rather than merely preparing them to pass standardized examinations.
268 words. Use the structure and vocabulary, not the sentences: PTE flags memorised templates.
Why this scores well
This essay achieves a high score by maintaining a formal register, clear paragraph structure, and using sophisticated transitions to link ideas. The most common error on this prompt is failing to provide a clear personal opinion, which is explicitly required by the discussion question.
Vocabulary from the essay
- curricula
- The subjects comprising a course of study offered.
- proficiency
- A high degree of competence or skill.
- rigorous
- Extremely thorough, exhaustive, or accurate in nature.
- cultivating
- The process of trying to acquire or develop.
- cognitive
- Relating to the mental process of acquiring knowledge.
- indispensable
- Absolutely necessary and cannot be done without.
- holistic
- Characterized by the treatment of the whole person.
- flexibility
- The quality of bending or adapting to change.
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Frequently asked questions
How long should a PTE essay be?
Between 200 and 300 words; outside that range the form score drops to zero. This sample is 268 words, written for the 20-minute limit.
What type of essay is this?
Discussion (both views and your opinion). Give each view its own paragraph, explained fairly even where you disagree.
What does PTE reward in the essay?
This essay achieves a high score by maintaining a formal register, clear paragraph structure, and using sophisticated transitions to link ideas. The most common error on this prompt is failing to provide a clear personal opinion, which is explicitly required by the discussion question.
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