Core Education Terminology
Basic Terms and Definitions
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curriculum /kəˈrɪkjʊləm/ (n): The subjects comprising a course of study
Example: “The school’s curriculum includes both academic and vocational subjects.” -
assessment /əˈsesmənt/ (n): Evaluation of student performance
Example: “Regular assessments help teachers monitor student progress.” -
pedagogy /ˈpedəɡɒdʒi/ (n): The method and practice of teaching
Example: “Modern pedagogy emphasizes student-centered learning approaches.”
Modern teaching methods in a contemporary classroom setting
IELTS Application
Writing Task 2 Examples
Common education-related topics often appear in IELTS Writing Task 2:
“Some people believe that formal education should begin at an early age, while others think children should start school later. Discuss both views.”
Sample paragraph:
“The curriculum design for early childhood education must carefully balance academic development with social skills. Modern pedagogy suggests that young children learn best through play-based activities, while formal assessment should be minimal at this stage.”
Speaking Part 3 Sample Questions
Q: How has education changed in your country over the past decade?
Model answer: “The curriculum has become more technology-focused, and assessment methods have evolved to include more practical skills evaluation rather than just theoretical knowledge.”
IELTS speaking test discussion about education systems
Common Collocations
Education-Specific Phrases
- Design a curriculum
- Implement assessment strategies
- Develop pedagogical skills
- Academic achievement
- Educational reform
Idiomatic Expressions
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“Hit the books” – To study hard
Example: “Final exams are approaching, it’s time to hit the books.” -
“Learn the ropes” – To learn the basics
Example: “New teachers need time to learn the ropes of classroom management.”
Visual representation of common education idioms
Practice Tips
- Use educational terminology naturally in IELTS Speaking responses
- Incorporate specific examples from your educational experience
- Balance formal and informal language depending on the task
- Remember to use collocations accurately in Writing tasks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overusing technical terms
- Confusing similar terms (e.g., curriculum vs. syllabus)
- Using informal expressions in formal writing tasks
Remember to practice these terms in context through mock tests and speaking exercises to improve fluency and accuracy in the IELTS exam.
