Leadership skills development in educational institutions has become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme frequently appears in questions about education and youth development, particularly in the last five years of IELTS examinations. Understanding how to approach this topic is crucial as it connects closely with The role of schools in teaching teamwork.
Students engaging in leadership activities during class discussion
Sample Question Analysis
Some people think that schools should focus only on academic subjects, while others believe leadership skills are equally important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on leadership education
- Present balanced arguments
- Provide a clear personal stance
- Support ideas with relevant examples
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
In the ongoing debate about educational priorities, while some advocate for purely academic focus, others emphasize the importance of leadership development. In my view, both academic excellence and leadership skills are crucial components of a comprehensive education.
Those who support an exclusively academic curriculum argue that schools’ primary purpose is to build strong subject knowledge. They contend that students need to master core subjects like mathematics, sciences, and languages to succeed in higher education and future careers. This perspective aligns with traditional educational models that have produced successful professionals across various fields.
However, proponents of leadership education, similar to those who support Entrepreneurial education in schools, argue that modern workplaces demand more than just technical knowledge. Leadership skills such as decision-making, team management, and effective communication are increasingly valued by employers. Schools that incorporate leadership training prepare students more comprehensively for real-world challenges.
In my opinion, schools should integrate both academic and leadership education. This balanced approach ensures students develop both essential knowledge and practical skills. For instance, group projects can simultaneously teach academic concepts while developing leadership capabilities. Furthermore, leadership skills often enhance academic performance by improving students’ confidence and ability to manage their studies effectively.
Students working together on a group project with designated leader
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
These days, people have different opinions about what schools should teach. Some think schools should only teach subjects like math and science, but others believe leadership skills are also important. I think both are necessary for students.
People who support only academic subjects say that schools’ main job is teaching knowledge. They think students need to learn subjects properly to get good jobs later. For example, students need to be good at math and science to become doctors or engineers. This is similar to how University education for career success helps students prepare for their future careers.
On the other hand, many people think leadership skills are very important too. They say that in modern jobs, people need to know how to lead teams and make decisions. Schools can help students learn these skills through activities like student council and group work.
I believe schools should teach both academic subjects and leadership skills. Students need knowledge from books, but they also need to learn how to work with others and make decisions. This will help them be more successful in their future jobs and life.
Essay Analysis
Band 8-9 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization and cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Precise language use
- Natural integration of academic and leadership concepts
Band 6-7 Essay Features:
- Good basic vocabulary with some advanced terms
- Clear but simpler structure
- Basic arguments with general examples
- Some grammar errors but meaning is clear
- Less sophisticated expression of ideas
Key Vocabulary
- comprehensive (adj) /kɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete and thorough
- advocate (v) /ˈædvəkeɪt/ – to publicly support
- proponent (n) /prəˈpəʊnənt/ – a person who supports an idea
- integration (n) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃən/ – the process of combining elements
- facilitate (v) /fəˈsɪlɪteɪt/ – to make easier
- paradigm (n) /ˈpærədaɪm/ – a typical example or pattern
- cohesive (adj) /kəʊˈhiːsɪv/ – united and working together effectively
- exemplify (v) /ɪɡˈzemplɪfaɪ/ – to be a perfect example of something
For additional practice, consider writing about the role of volunteering in building community cohesion as it relates to leadership development. Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
