Essay 83 – Too much time is spent on learning facts

GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 83

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people say that in all levels of education, from primary schools to universities, too much time is spent on learning facts and not enough on learning practical skills.

Do you agree or disagree?

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

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer: [Disagreement]

Teaching methods and curricula have long been the subject of debate. Many people argue that school syllabus emphasis firmly on teaching cases and theories. They also opine that practical skills do not span adequate time and do not get the treatment they deserve in every tier of education, from elementary to tertiary level. This essay will refute the claim by examining the facts.

In countries like ours, practical courses are a mandatory part of the curriculum in schools. Subjects such as Fine arts, Agriculture, Physical Education, Electronics, Wood Work, Home Economics and so on, are taught at schools. In most schools, as well as ours, for example, these subjects were not taught only theoretically. We were taught these subjects in a lab or classroom to get the first-hand experience. Our syllabus laid enough emphasis on these courses to equip us with useful skill in order to face the real world. Besides, our teachers engaged us in debates, sports and different other extracurricular activities which I believe also enhance pupils’ soft skills. Similarly, many schools have practical subjects and classes and students learn how to design small projects and the competencies required to use equipment and tools to develop useful designs and new tools.

Likewise, many majors at the universities have practical classes besides theoretical lessons to prepare graduates to work in their prospective arena. Students undertake experiments, carry out project works, complete assignments and do other practical works to learn how the theory they learnt work is the real world.

To conclude, the claim that a considerable amount of time is devoted to teaching theories only instead of focusing on the first-hand experience in all phases of education seems tempest and seriously mistaken. In fact, curricula lay enough emphasis on the practical approach in teaching and learning.