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 secondary school children should study international news as one of the school subjects. Others, however, think that it is a waste of valuable school time and has no value. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Sample Answer:
In today’s interconnected world, the question of whether secondary school children should study international news as a school subject is a topic of debate. Some individuals argue that it is essential for students to be aware of global events, while others believe that it is not a productive use of valuable school time. In this essay, I will discuss both perspectives and provide my own opinion on the matter.
Those in favor of including international news in the school curriculum argue that it is crucial for students to have a broad understanding of global affairs. With the rise of globalization, being knowledgeable about international events can help students develop a more comprehensive worldview. Additionally, studying international news can enhance students’ critical thinking skills and promote cultural awareness and empathy towards people from different backgrounds.
On the other hand, opponents of this idea argue that including international news as a school subject is not a productive use of time. They believe that the focus should be on core subjects such as math, science, and language arts, which are more directly applicable to students’ future careers. Furthermore, they argue that students can easily access international news through various media platforms outside of school, making it unnecessary to dedicate precious classroom time to this subject.
In my opinion, while I understand the importance of core subjects, I believe that studying international news can provide students with valuable insights into the world around them. By learning about global issues, students can develop a sense of empathy and understanding towards people from different cultures and backgrounds. Additionally, being informed about international events can help students become more active and engaged global citizens, which is essential in today’s interconnected world.
In conclusion, while some may argue that studying international news is a waste of school time, I believe that it is an essential subject that can help students develop a broader understanding of the world and become more empathetic global citizens. Therefore, I support the inclusion of international news as a school subject for secondary school children.
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