GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 234
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Many young people leave school with a negative attitude towards learning.
What are the causes of this?
Suggest some solutions to address this issue.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
Nowadays, so many young people who graduate from school have a rejecting attitude towards learning. In this essay, I would like to identify the causes of this situation and propose some corresponding solutions.
A wide range of factors contributes to the fact that many school-leavers have a negative attitude towards learning. In the first place, most schools focus on student’s academic performance much more than practical skills. Unfortunately, when students finish their schooling, they realise that practical skills are actually more important than academic achievement in society and career; thus school-leavers are disappointed and lose their motivation to learn more.
Secondly, most teachers in schools still use traditional methodologies to teach their pupils which encourage memorisation and standardised tests. As a result, students feel that learning is an arduous process, which is not stimulating at all. Lastly, modern culture does not value education enough. Traditionally, education was highly valued, yet sadly, modern young people gradually value financial success more than education.
Fortunately, several effective solutions are there for this condition. The most urgent solution could be that education must be geared to students’ needs in their future careers and life. Essentially, schools have to look at how to meet the demand of a changing society and provide more practical skills and knowledge for students. Likewise, the responsibility for changing teaching methods falls on teachers. In essence, since teachers’ pedagogies directly determine whether students enjoy learning or not, teachers should kindle students’ interest in learning by applying more engaging methods in the class. Finally, the responsibility for promoting education rests with the government. As I would be hard-pressed to imagine that our future society value education less and less, it is high time the government started to educate the general public so that youngsters will see the value of education more.
In conclusion, a growing number of young people do not like learning any more after they leave school due to various reasons. So the key is, I believe, to take actions such as changing the focus of schools, modifying teachers’ approaches to teaching and promoting the value of education.
Sample Answer 2:
The negative attitude towards learning among many fresh and young school graduates is a concerning phenomenon that hinders their personal and professional development. This essay will discuss the causes of this issue and propose potential solutions to address it.
One of the causes of the negative attitude towards learning is the outdated and rigid education system. Traditional teaching methods that prioritize rote memorization and standardized testing often fail to engage students and hinder their intrinsic motivation to learn. The lack of relevance and practical application of knowledge in real-life situations can lead to disinterest and disengagement.
Another contributing factor is the absence of personalized learning experiences. Students have diverse learning styles, interests, and strengths, but the one-size-fits-all approach in education overlooks these individual differences. When students feel that their unique needs are not considered, they may develop a negative perception of the learning process.
To address the issue, it is crucial to implement educational reforms that promote student-centred learning. This involves incorporating interactive and experiential teaching methods that foster active engagement and critical thinking. For example, project-based learning, where students tackle real-world problems, can enhance their motivation and sense of ownership over their education. Furthermore, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment is essential. Schools should prioritize the emotional well-being of students and provide a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing their ideas and opinions. Encouraging open dialogue, collaboration, and respect among peers can help cultivate a positive attitude towards learning.
In short, the negative attitude towards learning among young people leaving school can be attributed to various factors, including outdated teaching methods and the lack of personalized learning experiences. To address this issue, educational reforms should focus on students that foster engagement, critical thinking, and relevance. Additionally, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment is also vital.