Friday, February 27, 2026

Topics for discussion: Exams are the best way of testing students’ knowledge, aren’t they?

      Exams have been a traditional method of evaluating students' understanding for many years. Many educators and parents believe that examinations are the best way to measure what students have learned during their studies. However, others argue that exams are not always a fair or accurate way to assess knowledge. I will discuss both sides of the argument and give my opinion on whether exams are truly the best method.
           On the one hand, supporters of exams say that they are an effective way to test students' knowledge quickly and objectively. Exams usually consist of a set of questions that cover the main topics studied, and they help teachers see how much students have understood each subject. For students, preparing for exams encourages discipline and study habits. Additionally, exams can motivate students to revise their lessons regularly. Moreover, exam results are often used to decide whether a student can advance to the next level or get a diploma, which makes exams an important part of the education system.
      However, critics argue that exams have many disadvantages. Firstly, they can create a lot of stress and anxiety for students, which can affect their performance negatively. Not everyone performs well under pressure, and some students may know the material well but still do poorly because they are nervous. Secondly, exams usually focus on memorization and recall rather than actual understanding or critical thinking. This can discourage creativity and independent thought, which are also important skills for the real world. For instance, students might focus on rote learning rather than exploring topics deeply. Lastly, exams do not always reflect a student's overall abilities or potential. A student who performs poorly in an exam may be talented in other areas, such as art, sports, or practical skills, which are not measured in traditional tests.
In my opinion, while exams have their benefits, they should not be the only way to test students' knowledge. Education is a complex process, and learning success cannot be measured only by test scores. Other methods, such as projects, presentations, or coursework, can provide a more complete picture of a student’s abilities. For example, group work encourages teamwork and communication skills, which are important in real life. Combining exams with practical assessments can help develop a wider range of skills and reduce the pressure on students.
In conclusion, exams are a useful tool for testing knowledge, but they are not perfect. They can quickly evaluate what students have learned, but they often do not show the full picture of a person’s abilities or potential. Therefore, I believe a mix of different assessment methods is the best way to understand a student’s true capabilities. This approach would ensure that exams support learning rather than hinder it, and help prepare students better for life beyond school.
1. What difficulties do you experience as a learner?

As a learner, I face several difficulties. One common challenge is staying motivated, especially when topics become difficult or boring. Sometimes, I struggle to understand complex concepts, which makes studying frustrating. Time management is also a problem; I find it hard to balance studying with other activities. Additionally, I sometimes lack confidence, doubting my abilities and fearing failure. Distractions from social media and everyday life can interrupt my focus, making it harder to concentrate. Despite these challenges, I try to stay positive and find better ways to learn, such as setting clear goals and taking regular breaks.

2. What type of a learner are you?

I consider myself a visual learner because I learn best through images, charts, and videos. When studying, I usually take notes with diagrams or highlight important parts to remember them better. I find that seeing information helps me understand and retain it longer. However, I also enjoy listening to lectures or recordings, which helps me reinforce my learning. I try to combine visual and auditory methods to improve my skills. Being aware of my learning style allows me to choose effective techniques, making studying easier and more enjoyable. Overall, I think understanding how I learn helps me become a better student.

3. What is your attitude to cheating?

I believe that cheating is wrong and dishonest. It may seem like a quick way to get good grades, but it damages trust and integrity. When students cheat, they do not learn the material properly, which can cause problems in the future. Cheating also unfairly disadvantages others who work hard honestly. I think it’s better to study and prepare properly rather than rely on dishonest methods. Respect for oneself and others is very important. In my opinion, honesty is the best approach in school and life. Cheating might bring short-term benefits, but it leads to long-term consequences and loss of self-respect. 

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