IELTS Writing Task 2 Band 6-9 Sample Essays: Should Schools Replace Traditional Exams with Projects?

The topic of replacing traditional examinations with project-based assessments has been increasingly appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme has emerged multiple times in various forms since 2019, particularly in questions about education reform and assessment methods. Let’s examine a recent exam question and analyze model responses across different band scores.

Should schools eliminate standardized testing? This debate has become increasingly relevant as education systems worldwide reevaluate their assessment methods.

Question Analysis

Some people believe that schools should replace traditional written examinations with practical project work and continuous assessment. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

This question requires candidates to discuss the merits and drawbacks of replacing traditional exams with alternative assessment methods. The key aspects to address include:

• Comparison between examination and project-based assessment
• Benefits and limitations of both methods
• Clear position on the extent of agreement/disagreement

Students working on collaborative project while others take written exam

Model Essay (Band 8-9)

While traditional examinations have long been the cornerstone of academic assessment, there is growing advocacy for their replacement with project work and continuous evaluation. I partially agree that schools should incorporate more project-based assessments, but believe that a complete replacement of written examinations would be imprudent.

Projects and continuous assessment offer several advantages over traditional examinations. Firstly, they better reflect real-world scenarios where success depends on sustained effort and practical application rather than memorization. Students develop crucial skills like teamwork, research, and time management through project work. Moreover, continuous assessment reduces exam stress and provides a more comprehensive view of student capabilities over time.

However, traditional examinations still serve important purposes that projects cannot fully replace. Written exams develop critical thinking under pressure and ensure individual accountability, which should schools replace exams with continuous assessment often fails to address. They also provide standardized metrics for comparing student performance across different schools and regions.

The optimal solution lies in a balanced approach combining both assessment methods. Schools could maintain core subject examinations while incorporating project work for practical subjects and continuous assessment for monitoring progress. This hybrid system would foster both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students more effectively for future challenges.

Model Essay (Band 6-7)

In modern education, many people think schools should stop using written exams and start using projects and continuous assessment instead. I partly agree with this idea, but I think both methods have their own benefits.

Project work and continuous assessment have some good points. When students do projects, they learn useful skills like working in teams and finding information. Also, continuous assessment means students don’t have to worry so much about one big exam. Should smartphones be allowed in classrooms is another related debate that shows how education is changing.

However, written exams are still important. They help students learn how to think quickly and work alone. Exams also make it fair to compare different students’ abilities. Without exams, it might be hard to know if students really understand the subject.

I think schools should use both methods. They can keep exams for main subjects but use projects for practical subjects. This way, students can get benefits from both types of assessment.

Band Score Analysis

Band 8-9 Essay Features:

• Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
• Clear organization with well-developed ideas
• Effective use of cohesive devices
• Balanced argument with nuanced position
• Academic tone throughout

Band 6-7 Essay Features:

• Good but simpler vocabulary
• Basic paragraph organization
• Some cohesive devices
• Clear but less developed ideas
• More straightforward expression

Key Vocabulary

1. cornerstone (n) /ˈkɔːnəstəʊn/ – fundamental element
2. imprudent (adj) /ɪmˈpruːdnt/ – unwise
3. accountability (n) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – responsibility
4. hybrid (adj) /ˈhaɪbrɪd/ – combined
5. metrics (n) /ˈmetrɪks/ – measurement systems

For additional practice on similar topics, consider writing about should education be focused on practical job skills.

Conclusion

This topic continues to be relevant in IELTS examinations. Practice writing your own response to this question and share it in the comments for feedback. Future variations might include questions about online assessment methods or the role of technology in educational evaluation.