IELTS Band 9 Essay About some argue that schools should prioritize life skills such as working
Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Some argue that schools should prioritize life skills such as working”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in 2025.
Sample Essay with Answer (Band 9)
Some argue that schools should prioritize life skills such as working in teams and solving problems instead of traditional academics.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
In contemporary education, there is an ongoing debate regarding whether schools should prioritize life skills such as teamwork and problem-solving over traditional academic subjects. While both aspects are crucial for students’ holistic development, I believe that a balanced approach is essential, as placing an exclusive emphasis on either one would be detrimental to students’ future prospects.
On the one hand, the increasing complexity of modern work environments necessitates strong interpersonal and analytical abilities. Many professions require individuals to collaborate effectively, think critically, and navigate unforeseen challenges. For instance, companies often seek employees who excel in collaborative problem-solving rather than those with only theoretical knowledge. If schools integrate more practical life skills training into their curriculum, students will be better prepared for real-world scenarios, reducing the gap between academic learning and professional demands.
On the other hand, traditional academic subjects remain indispensable for intellectual growth and foundational knowledge. Mathematics, science, and literature cultivate essential cognitive abilities, such as logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and effective communication. Moreover, these subjects form the backbone of specialized careers, such as medicine, engineering, and law, where proficiency in theoretical concepts is non-negotiable. A curriculum that excessively de-emphasizes traditional academics may leave students ill-equipped for higher education and specialized fields, ultimately limiting their career opportunities.
A balanced educational model would be the most effective solution. Schools should integrate life skills training into the curriculum without compromising core academic subjects. For example, incorporating project-based learning and group discussions into traditional lessons can help students apply theoretical knowledge in pragmatic contexts. Such an approach ensures that students acquire both the technical expertise necessary for their chosen professions and the adaptability required to thrive in dynamic environments.
In conclusion, while life skills such as teamwork and problem-solving are increasingly vital, they should not replace traditional academics. Instead, an integrated approach that combines both elements will best prepare students for the complexities of the modern world.
Academic Vocabulary in the sample for Some argue that schools should prioritize life skills such as working
- Prioritize (/ˈpraɪ.ɒr.ɪ.taɪz/) – Schools should prioritize both academic knowledge and life skills to ensure students’ well-rounded development.
- Holistic (/həʊˈlɪs.tɪk/) – A holistic education considers not only academic success but also social and emotional growth.
- Detrimental (/ˌdɛtrɪˈmɛnt(ə)l/) – Ignoring life skills in education can be detrimental to students’ real-world preparedness.
- Indispensable (/ˌɪndɪˈspɛnsəb(ə)l/) – Mathematics is an indispensable subject that forms the foundation for many technical careers.
- Proficiency (/prəˈfɪʃ(ə)nsi/) – Students must demonstrate proficiency in core academic subjects to pursue higher education.
Advanced Grammar Features & Their Impact
- Complex Sentences for Depth – “While life skills such as teamwork and problem-solving are increasingly vital, they should not replace traditional academics.”
This structure presents a contrast effectively, making the argument nuanced and well-developed. - Passive Voice for Formality – “A curriculum that excessively de-emphasizes traditional academics may leave students ill-equipped for higher education.”
Using passive voice adds an academic tone and emphasizes the impact rather than the subject causing it. - Nominalization for Academic Style – “The increasing complexity of modern work environments necessitates strong interpersonal and analytical abilities.”
This technique makes the writing more formal and sophisticated. - Modal Verbs for Balanced Argumentation – “Schools should integrate life skills training into the curriculum without compromising core academic subjects.”
The use of “should” makes the argument sound measured rather than absolute. - Conditional Sentences for Persuasive Impact – “If schools integrate more practical life skills training into their curriculum, students will be better prepared for real-world scenarios.”
This enhances logical reasoning and strengthens the argument.
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