Essay 272 – Physical education classes are an important part of a child’s education

GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 272

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people say that physical education classes are an important part of a child’s education. Others believe that it is more important to focus on academics during school time.

Discuss both these views, and give your opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer 1:

It is argued by many people that physical education is vital for children and should be introduced into the academic curriculum, yet others deem that children should put emphasis on academic activities during school time. This essay expounds on both viewpoints before coming up with a logical opinion.

To commence with, introducing physical education into the academic curriculum might be an effective approach not only to augment children’s physical activity participation levels but also to improve academic outcomes. On the one hand, physical inactivity causes a range of non-communicable diseases like obesity, diabetes, and cancers. Physical activity, on the other hand, helps to maintain fitness, in turn, increases children’s school engagement and thus improves their cognitive and academic performance. A case in point is Australia. The country enhances the physical activity and literacy levels of children in elementary school by integrating physical education into the academic curriculum.

In contrast, others think that children should devote school time to their studies. According to them, physical literacy can be taught at home, whereas school time needs to be dedicated to acquiring academic knowledge. This is because if physical education is integrated with the curriculum, then one or two major subjects would be compromised accordingly. This, in turn, will hamper overall academic activities.

I believe that schools are not an ideal place for physical education. The reason is that once gymnasiums were rare in a community, but today, every community has a gymnasium for physical education. Therefore, there is no ground for adding physical education to the primary school curriculum.

It seems reasonable to conclude that physical education should not be included in the primary school curriculum because it could handicap the academic process while killing valuable time for learning important lessons.

Model Answer 2:

The question of whether physical education classes hold significant value in a child’s education or if the academic focus should take precedence during school time has sparked an animated debate. While some argue for the importance of physical education as an integral part of a well-rounded education, others emphasize the primacy of academic pursuits. In my opinion, physical education classes are essential for a child’s holistic development, and striking a balance between academics and physical activity is crucial.

On the one hand, proponents of academic focus argue that the primary goal of education is to equip children with the necessary knowledge and skills for future academic and career success. They emphasise that dedicating more time to core subjects like mathematics, science, and languages maximizes intellectual growth, fosters critical thinking, and enhances problem-solving abilities. Academic achievement is often seen as the primary measure of a child’s success and is crucial in preparing them for higher education and professional opportunities.

On the other hand, advocates for physical education highlight the numerous benefits it offers to a child’s overall well-being. Regular physical activity not only promotes physical fitness but also enhances cognitive function, concentration, and memory retention. Physical education classes provide opportunities for children to develop crucial social skills such as teamwork, cooperation, and leadership. Engaging in sports and physical activities instils values of discipline, resilience, and healthy lifestyle habits from an early age.

Furthermore, integrating physical education into the school curriculum can address the growing concern about sedentary lifestyles and childhood obesity. With the prevalence of technology and sedentary forms of entertainment, physical education classes play a vital role in promoting an active lifestyle and instilling lifelong habits of regular exercise. For example, incorporating physical education classes into the school curriculum ensures that students engage in regular physical activity, reducing the risk of obesity-related health issues.

In conclusion, while academic focus is undeniably important, physical education classes should not be neglected in a child’s education. Incorporating academics with physical activity is essential for well-rounded development, promoting physical fitness, cognitive function, social skills, and a positive attitude towards a healthy lifestyle.