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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

It is very clear now that English should be the primary foreign language taught in all schools around the world. Learning a different foreign language before English is, in today’s world, a waste of time. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? 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:

It is very clear now that English should be the primary foreign language taught in all schools around the world. Learning a different foreign language before English is, in today’s world, a waste of time. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

In today's interconnected world, the importance of learning a foreign language cannot be overstated. There is a growing consensus that English should be the primary foreign language taught in all schools worldwide. I wholeheartedly agree with this statement due to its global relevance, economic opportunities, and ease of access to resources.

Firstly, English has become the lingua franca of the world. It is the primary language of international communication, business, and diplomacy. Proficiency in English opens up vast opportunities for individuals in terms of employment, higher education, and global networking. For example, a study by the British Council found that non-native English speakers with proficient English skills earn significantly higher salaries compared to their counterparts who are not proficient in the language.

Moreover, the prevalence of English language resources cannot be ignored. The majority of scientific research, academic journals, and technological innovations are published in English. Therefore, acquiring English proficiency early on provides students with access to a wealth of knowledge and information, enabling them to stay abreast of global developments and contribute meaningfully to their fields.

While some may argue that learning other foreign languages has cultural and cognitive benefits, it is essential to recognize that the practical advantages of learning English outweigh these considerations in today's globalized society. Moreover, with the widespread availability of language learning resources, individuals can always pursue other foreign languages as secondary skills once they have acquired proficiency in English.

In conclusion, the global prominence of English, coupled with its economic and educational advantages, makes it imperative for schools worldwide to prioritize English language education. By equipping students with English proficiency, schools are preparing them for success in an increasingly interconnected and English-dominated world.

Model Essay #2:

It is very clear now that English should be the primary foreign language taught in all schools around the world. Learning a different foreign language before English is, in today’s world, a waste of time. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

While the idea of making English the primary foreign language taught in all schools around the world has gained traction, I disagree with this proposition. I believe that learning a different foreign language before English is not a waste of time, and there are compelling reasons to support this view.

Firstly, promoting diversity and cultural understanding should be a priority in education. By learning a variety of foreign languages, students gain insight into different cultures, traditions, and ways of thinking. For instance, a student who learns Mandarin or Spanish not only gains language skills but also develops a deeper appreciation for the rich histories and diverse perspectives of Chinese and Hispanic cultures.

Furthermore, early exposure to a foreign language can have cognitive benefits. Research has shown that multilingual individuals often exhibit enhanced problem-solving abilities, improved memory retention, and greater mental flexibility. Therefore, learning a different foreign language before English can provide students with valuable cognitive skills that are transferable to other areas of learning and personal development.

It is also important to acknowledge that English proficiency can still be achieved even if it is not the primary foreign language taught in schools. With the widespread availability of English language resources, including online courses, language exchange programs, and immersive experiences, individuals have ample opportunities to learn English outside of formal education settings. Therefore, prioritizing other foreign languages in schools does not necessarily hinder the acquisition of English proficiency.

In conclusion, while English undoubtedly holds significant global importance, it is essential to recognize the value of promoting linguistic diversity and the cognitive benefits associated with learning different foreign languages. By providing students with a foundation in various languages, schools can foster cultural understanding and equip students with valuable cognitive skills that transcend language barriers.

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