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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 a growing debate about whether or not schools should abolish the use of grades and standardized tests as a means of assessing students' academic performance. While some argue that eliminating these measures would create a more inclusive and holistic learning environment, others contend that they are necessary for ensuring a consistent standard of education. In this essay, I will discuss both sides of this argument before presenting my own conclusion on the matter.

Those who advocate for the abolition of grades and standardized tests argue that they create an unfair advantage for students from privileged backgrounds, as these measures often reflect socio-economic factors rather than a student's genuine ability or effort. Furthermore, they assert that these tools foster unhealthy competition among students, leading to increased stress and anxiety. Critics also claim that standardized testing is inherently flawed, as it only assesses a limited range of skills and knowledge, often resulting in distorted representations of a student's true capabilities.

On the other hand, proponents of maintaining grades and standardized tests argue that these measures provide valuable feedback for both students and teachers, enabling them to identify areas of strength and weakness and adapt their learning strategies accordingly. Moreover, they contend that without such assessment tools, it would be difficult to compare and evaluate the performance of different schools or educational systems objectively. This, in turn, could lead to inconsistencies in the quality of education provided across various institutions.

In light of these arguments, I believe that a balance must be struck between the benefits of eliminating grades and standardized testing and the need for objective measures of student performance. While it is true that these tools can perpetuate socio-economic disparities and encourage unhealthy competition, they also offer valuable insights into students' progress and the effectiveness of teaching methods. As such, schools should explore alternative assessment strategies, such as portfolio-based evaluations or project-based assessments, which take into account a broader range of skills and abilities. By doing so, they can ensure that all students are given equal opportunities to showcase their talents and potential, while still retaining the ability to monitor and improve educational quality.

In conclusion, while it is essential to recognize the limitations and potential drawbacks of grades and standardized testing, these tools should not be entirely eliminated from our education system. Instead, schools must work towards developing more holistic and equitable assessment methods that cater to the diverse needs and abilities of all students, thus creating a fairer and more inclusive learning environment.

(Score: Band 9)

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