Essay 188 – Many things that children are taught at school are a waste of time

GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 188

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people claim that many things that children are taught at school are a waste of time. Others argue that everything that children study at school is useful sometimes.

Discuss both 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:

Opinions are divided when it comes down to school education and its curriculum. Many individuals argue that many knowledge schools impart to its pupils are useless while others oppose as they feel those lessons and knowledge are beneficial. This essay will discuss both views, but as far as I am concerned, some teachings in school are not necessary and should be replaced by the more important curriculum.

Many people fiercely argue that a large amount of what students learn at school is a waste of time. They go on arguing that some of the subjects schools teach do not meet real-world demand and some are archaic. Thus, students spend many hours each day in classrooms acquiring knowledge that they will never get the chance to apply in their daily lives. A case in point is the history of the ancient era. This branch of history does neither deal with scientific advances and achievements nor teaches facts and events that learners can relate to their lives. Thus, many a time, school education exposes students to many trivial things.

On the other hand, many others believe that the things schools teach are useful at some point in life. In school, students are taught different subjects that cover literature, arts, physics, chemistry, geography, biology, history, math, philosophy and many more. These subjects make them aware of wars and battles that shape the nation, the hard work and efforts of their ancestors, the advent of science and technology, and so forth. A very good example here is philosophy. By studying philosophy students can unearth some types of philosophical ideals of forming an institution, which is crucial for individuals as a citizen. Therefore, everything students learn at school is of profound importance to all-round development.

In conclusion, both arguments have their own merits. In my opinion, however, some of the subjects that schools teach their students should be replaced or updated to equip apprentices to face real-life challenges or gather valuable knowledge.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *