Emotional intelligence in education has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 3-4 times annually in recent years. This topic intersects with broader themes of importance of teaching emotional intelligence in schools and modern educational reforms.
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Students participating in emotional intelligence lesson in modern classroom
Let’s analyze a recent IELTS question on this topic:
Some people believe that schools should teach students how to develop emotional intelligence, while others think academic subjects are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
- Topic: Role of emotional intelligence in education
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key aspects: Balance between emotional and academic education
- Related concepts: The role of schools in teaching creativity
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In contemporary education, there is ongoing debate about whether schools should prioritize emotional intelligence or traditional academic subjects. While both elements are crucial for student development, I believe a balanced approach incorporating both aspects is most beneficial.
Those who advocate for emotional intelligence education argue that it prepares students for real-world challenges. Successfully navigating relationships, managing stress, and understanding others’ perspectives are fundamental life skills that traditional subjects don’t address. Furthermore, studies have shown that emotionally intelligent individuals often achieve greater professional success and personal satisfaction, similar to the benefits seen in importance of teaching conflict resolution.
Conversely, proponents of academic focus emphasize that core subjects provide essential knowledge and critical thinking skills. Mathematics, sciences, and languages form the foundation of professional expertise and cognitive development. Without strong academic capabilities, students may struggle in higher education and competitive job markets.
In my opinion, schools should integrate both approaches. Emotional intelligence can be woven into academic subjects through group projects, peer feedback, and classroom discussions. This integration allows students to develop both intellectual and emotional capabilities simultaneously, creating well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Many people have different opinions about teaching emotional intelligence in schools. I will discuss both sides and give my view.
Some people think schools should teach emotional intelligence. They say it helps students understand feelings better and work well with others. When students learn about emotions, they can handle problems better and make good friends. This is similar to importance of teaching empathy in school curriculums.
Other people believe academic subjects are more important. They think students need to learn math, science, and languages to get good jobs. These subjects help students think clearly and solve problems.
I think both are important for students. Schools can teach both emotional intelligence and academic subjects. This helps students become smart and good with people. When students learn both, they can do better in life.
Key Vocabulary
- emotional intelligence (n.) /ɪˈməʊʃənl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – ability to understand and manage emotions
- cognitive development (n.) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv dɪˈveləpmənt/ – growth of thinking abilities
- integrate (v.) /ˈɪntɪɡreɪt/ – combine elements into a whole
- proponents (n.) /prəˈpəʊnənts/ – supporters of an idea
- fundamental (adj.) /ˌfʌndəˈmentl/ – basic, essential
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
- “While both elements are crucial for student development, I believe…” (Concession + Opinion structure)
- “Not only does emotional intelligence enhance social skills, but it also contributes to academic success.” (Not only… but also… structure)
- “This integration allows students to develop both X and Y simultaneously.” (Complex sentence with parallel structure)
Consider practicing by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments for feedback. Focus on incorporating the vocabulary and sentence patterns provided above.
