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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

During last twenty years, the assessment of students has undergone a major transformation. Many educational institutions have shifted their focus from traditional examination towards a variety of innovative assessment techniques, as they believe traditional examination results are not often true to student’s ability. To what extent do you agree with this belief? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

During last twenty years, the assessment of students has undergone a major transformation. Many educational institutions have shifted their focus from traditional examination towards a variety of innovative assessment techniques, as they believe traditional examination results are not often true to student’s ability. To what extent do you agree with this belief?

In the past two decades, there has been a significant change in how students are evaluated in educational settings. Many schools and universities have moved away from conventional exams and embraced alternative assessment methods. This shift is based on the belief that traditional exams may not always accurately reflect a student's true abilities. In my opinion, I agree with this belief to a large extent due to the limitations of traditional exams and the benefits offered by innovative assessment techniques.

Traditional exams primarily test a student's ability to memorize and regurgitate information within a limited time frame. This approach does not always capture a student's critical thinking, creativity, and practical skills. For example, a student might excel in understanding concepts and applying them in real-life situations, but struggle to perform well in an exam setting due to anxiety or time constraints.

On the other hand, innovative assessment techniques such as project-based assessments, presentations, and portfolios provide a more comprehensive evaluation of a student's abilities. These methods allow students to demonstrate their understanding of concepts, problem-solving skills, and creativity in a more practical and holistic manner. For instance, a student who struggles with written exams might excel in showcasing their knowledge through a well-researched project or a compelling presentation.

Furthermore, alternative assessment methods can better prepare students for the demands of the modern workforce, where practical skills and critical thinking are highly valued. Employers often seek individuals who can think creatively, adapt to new challenges, and work collaboratively, qualities that are not effectively measured through traditional exams.

In conclusion, the shift from traditional exams to innovative assessment techniques is a positive development in education. By embracing a variety of assessment methods, educational institutions can provide a more accurate and holistic evaluation of students' abilities, better preparing them for the challenges of the future.

Model Essay #2:

During last twenty years, the assessment of students has undergone a major transformation. Many educational institutions have shifted their focus from traditional examination towards a variety of innovative assessment techniques, as they believe traditional examination results are not often true to student’s ability. To what extent do you agree with this belief?

In the past two decades, there has been a significant shift in the way students are evaluated in educational institutions. Many schools and universities have transitioned from traditional exams to various innovative assessment techniques. While some believe that traditional exams do not always reflect a student's true abilities, I take the stance that traditional examinations still hold value and provide an accurate measure of a student's knowledge and understanding.

Traditional exams have been a longstanding method of evaluating students' knowledge and understanding of academic subjects. These exams are designed to test a wide range of skills, including the ability to recall information, apply concepts, and think critically under time constraints. For instance, a well-structured exam can effectively assess a student's grasp of fundamental concepts and their ability to analyze and solve problems within a given timeframe.

Moreover, traditional exams provide a standardized and objective measure of students' performance, allowing for fair comparisons across a large number of individuals. This uniformity is essential in educational settings, ensuring that all students are evaluated based on the same criteria and standards.

While innovative assessment techniques such as project-based assessments and presentations offer alternative ways to evaluate students, they may not always provide a consistent and reliable measure of academic achievement. These methods can be subjective and may vary in rigor and standardization across different instructors and institutions. Additionally, they may not effectively assess a student's ability to recall and apply foundational knowledge, which is crucial for academic success.

In conclusion, while there is a growing trend towards innovative assessment techniques, traditional exams continue to play a vital role in evaluating students' academic abilities. These exams offer a standardized and objective measure of knowledge and understanding, ensuring fairness and consistency in assessment. Therefore, traditional examinations should not be disregarded in favor of alternative assessment methods, as they remain a valuable tool for evaluating students' academic performance.

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