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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people say that the purpose of education is to prepare individuals to be useful to society. Others say its purpose is to prepare individuals to achieve personal ambitions. Discuss 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.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Some people say that the purpose of education is to prepare individuals to be useful to society. Others say its purpose is to prepare individuals to achieve personal ambitions.

In today's world, the purpose of education is a topic of much debate. Some believe that the primary goal of education is to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to society, while others argue that its main aim is to help individuals achieve their personal ambitions. In this essay, I will discuss these contrasting views and provide my opinion.

Those who advocate for the idea that education should prepare individuals to be useful to society argue that the ultimate goal of education is to produce citizens who can actively participate in the workforce and contribute to the betterment of society. They believe that education should focus on teaching skills that are valuable to the community, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork.

On the other hand, proponents of the view that education should prepare individuals to achieve personal ambitions argue that the purpose of education is to help individuals realize their full potential and pursue their own goals and aspirations. They believe that education should empower individuals to pursue their passions and interests, leading to personal fulfillment and success.

In my opinion, while both perspectives hold merit, the purpose of education should be to strike a balance between preparing individuals to be valuable members of society and enabling them to achieve personal ambitions. A well-rounded education should provide students with the necessary skills to contribute to society, while also nurturing their individual talents and ambitions. For example, a student who excels in music should have the opportunity to pursue their passion while also learning skills that are beneficial to society.

In conclusion, the purpose of education should encompass both preparing individuals to be useful to society and enabling them to achieve personal ambitions. A balanced approach to education can lead to a society where individuals are not only productive members but also fulfilled and successful in their personal pursuits.

Model Essay #2:

Some people say that the purpose of education is to prepare individuals to be useful to society. Others say its purpose is to prepare individuals to achieve personal ambitions.

There is an ongoing debate regarding the purpose of education. While some argue that the primary goal of education is to prepare individuals to be useful to society, others contend that its purpose is to prepare individuals to achieve personal ambitions. In this essay, I will address these differing views and present my perspective on the matter.

Advocates of the belief that education should prepare individuals to be useful to society assert that the main objective of education is to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the collective welfare of the community. They emphasize the importance of teaching practical skills and fostering a sense of social responsibility in students.

Conversely, proponents of the view that education should prepare individuals to achieve personal ambitions argue that the purpose of education is to empower individuals to pursue their own aspirations and fulfill their potential. They stress the significance of providing students with opportunities to explore their interests and develop their unique talents.

In my view, the primary purpose of education should be to prepare individuals to be useful to society. A well-rounded education should prioritize the development of skills and knowledge that are beneficial to the community at large. By equipping individuals with the tools to contribute meaningfully to society, education can play a crucial role in fostering a more cohesive and prosperous community.

In conclusion, while the idea of education being geared towards personal ambitions holds value, I firmly believe that the overarching purpose of education should be to prepare individuals to be useful to society. By instilling a sense of social responsibility and promoting the acquisition of skills that benefit the collective good, education can serve as a catalyst for positive societal change and progress.

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