WRITING TASK 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Present a written argument or case to an educated reader with no specialist knowledge.
Write about the following topic:
Some people believe that exams are an inappropriate way of measuring students’ performance and should be replaced by continuous assessment. Do you agree or disagree with this view?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Sample Answer:
There is a growing debate about the effectiveness of exams as a way of measuring students’ performance, with some arguing that continuous assessment would be a more appropriate method. In my opinion, I believe that a combination of both methods would be the most effective approach.
On one hand, exams have been the traditional way of evaluating students’ knowledge and understanding of a subject. They provide a standardized way of assessing students’ performance and can be a fair measure of their abilities. Exams also encourage students to revise and consolidate their learning, as they have to prepare for a specific date and time. Furthermore, exams can provide a clear indication of how well a student has grasped the material, as they have to demonstrate their knowledge under pressure.
On the other hand, continuous assessment has its merits as well. It allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of a student’s performance over a period of time, taking into account their progress and development. This method can also be more inclusive, as it can accommodate different learning styles and abilities. Continuous assessment can also provide valuable feedback to students, helping them to identify areas for improvement and track their own progress.
However, both methods have their limitations. Exams can be stressful and may not accurately reflect a student’s true abilities, as some students may struggle with test anxiety. On the other hand, continuous assessment may be more subjective and open to bias, as it relies on the judgment of individual teachers.
In conclusion, I believe that a combination of exams and continuous assessment would be the most effective way of measuring students’ performance. Exams can provide a standardized measure of a student’s knowledge, while continuous assessment can offer a more comprehensive evaluation of their progress. By using both methods, educators can gain a more holistic understanding of a student’s abilities and provide them with the support they need to succeed.
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