Wednesday, June 25, 2025

IELTS Writing Task 2: Opinion Essay 5 - Studying History

 


Write about the following topic:

Some people think that the function of studying history at all levels is to teach young people about historical facts and information, while others feel that its main function is to acquaint them with the skills necessary in later life.
Which, in your opinion, should be the main function of education?

Write at least 250 words.


 

1. What are the two main perspectives on the purpose of studying history discussed in the essay?

2. Why do some people believe that memorizing historical facts is important for students?

3. According to the essay, what are the potential drawbacks of focusing too much on rote memorization (механическое запоминание) in history education?

4. How can developing skills like critical analysis and research benefit students in their future lives?

5. In your opinion, should history education prioritize factual knowledge or skill development? Why?

6. What does the essay suggest about the relationship between understanding history and cultural identity?

7. How does teaching students to evaluate sources help them in the age of misinformation?

8. Why does the author believe that a balanced approach to history education is necessary?

9. Can you think of examples where historical knowledge might directly influence decision-making in everyday life?

10. Do you agree with the idea that developing analytical skills is more important than memorizing facts? Why or why not?

2 comments:

  1. History is an important subject in school, but people disagree about its main purpose. Some believe it should focus on teaching facts about the past, while others think that it should develop useful skills for the future. In my opinion, while knowing historical events is valuable, the most important function of history should be to teach skills that help students in their future lives.

    Learning historical facts is essential because it helps students understand their culture and world. For example, knowing about wars, revolutions, and social changes allows young people to see how societies developed. This knowledge can also prevent past mistakes from being repeated. However, memorizing dates and events alone is not enough for real life success.

    I agree with the second opinion because history teaches skills that are useful not only in the classroom. By analyzing historical events, students improve critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making. For instance, comparing different governments helps them understand politics better. Additionally, history develops research and communication skills which are valuable in many careers. These abilities prepare students for future challenges more than just remembering facts.

    In conclusion, while historical knowledge is important, the main purpose of studying history should be to equip students with practical skills. Skills like analysis, reasoning, and communication are more useful in modern life than simply memorizing information. Therefore, schools should teach history in a way that prepares young people for their future.
    By Diana

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    Replies
    1. The essay clearly addresses the prompt and presents a well-developed position. The arguments are relevant and well-supported with examples. Nevertheless, the essay falls short of the required 250 words. The essay is well-organized and easy to follow. The ideas flow logically, and the transitions between paragraphs are smooth. The structure is effective in conveying the argument. The major thing you should pay your attention to is vocabulary repetition.

      History is a significant subject in school, but people disagree about its main purpose. Some believe it should focus on teaching facts about the past, while others think that it must develop useful skills for the future. In my opinion, while knowing historical events is valuable, the most important function of history is to acquire tools that support students in their adult lives.
      Learning historical facts is essential because it encourages youth understand their culture and surrounding world. For instance, exploring wars, revolutions, and social changes allows young people to see how societies have developed. This knowledge can also prevent past mistakes from being repeated. However, memorizing dates and events alone is not enough for real-life success.
      I strongly agree with the second opinion due to the fact that history teaches skills that are applicable not only in the classroom. By analyzing historical evolution and development, teenagers improve critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. For instance, comparing different governments' decisions makes politics clearer for undergraduates. Moreover, history develops research and communication expertise, which are valuable in many careers. These competencies prepare youth for future challenges more than just remembering facts.
      In conclusion, while historical knowledge is relevant, the main objective of studying history ought to equip students with practical skills such as analysis, reasoning, and communication, which are more demanding in modern life than simply memorizing information. Therefore, schools should teach history in a way that prepares young people for their future

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