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 think that intelligence is innate while others believe that we can improve our intelligence through learning. Discuss both 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.
Sample Answer:
There is a long-standing debate about whether intelligence is innate or can be improved through learning. Some people believe that intelligence is something we are born with and cannot be changed, while others argue that intelligence can be developed and enhanced through education and experience. In this essay, I will discuss both views and provide my opinion on the matter.
Those who believe that intelligence is innate argue that a person’s level of intelligence is determined by genetics and cannot be changed. They believe that intelligence is predetermined at birth and that no amount of learning or education can alter this. This view is supported by the fact that some individuals seem to possess a natural aptitude for certain skills or subjects, suggesting that intelligence is indeed innate.
On the other hand, proponents of the idea that intelligence can be improved through learning argue that the brain is a highly adaptable organ and that intelligence is not fixed. They believe that through education, training, and practice, individuals can enhance their cognitive abilities and improve their intelligence. This view is supported by research in the field of neuroscience, which has shown that the brain has the ability to change and rewire itself in response to learning and experience.
In my opinion, I believe that both views have merit. While it is true that genetics play a role in determining a person’s intelligence, I also believe that intelligence can be developed and improved through learning. I think that the potential for intelligence is innate, but it is also malleable and can be shaped by the environment and experiences. Education and continuous learning can help individuals unlock their full intellectual potential and improve their cognitive abilities.
In conclusion, the debate about whether intelligence is innate or can be improved through learning is a complex and nuanced one. While some believe that intelligence is fixed and predetermined, others argue that it is adaptable and can be enhanced through education and experience. In my view, I believe that intelligence is a combination of both innate ability and the capacity for growth through learning.
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