IELTS Task 2 sample essay: art in schools

It is becoming increasingly common for some proponents arguing that art in education system is a waste of time for children, while others contend that it is a vital tool for fostering creativity and self-expression. While I acknowledge the drawbacks of importance of art in schools, I think the ensued effects should be regarded as a change for the better.

Admittedly, supporters of the former view have valid arguments to justify arguing art is not as important as other subjects in curriculum system. One argument is that art taking part in the education can take away time from other subjects like math, science, and language arts that some people consider more essential for academic achievement and better performance at school. For example, some critics argue that art lacks practical, real-world applications that directly translate to careers. They believe that focusing on more academic – vocational – subjects may be more of an importance for students. Another reason that is not conrovertial, but something should be considered is that art classes require supplies and materials that can be expensive for schools to provide. For years, schools with tighter budgets around the globe are facing funding cuts to art programs. Thus, kids from poorer families don’t get the same artistic experiences, which could make the gap between rich and poor even wider.

However, I would take the issue with the idea that art is a fundamental subject that should be taught in schools. Firstly, art can truly touch our hearts and change our lives for the better. With art, children can express their feelings, thoughts and emotions which they sometimes can not through words. Art helps young to understand differences between our cultures, customs and art forms, which helps us to bece more tolerant and see things from a different perspective. Moreover, art classes for youngesters can open their minds and prepare them for a world beyond textbook learning. So instead of narrowing their focus, art has the power to widen their intellectual horizons. Learning artistic skills boosts their confidence by showing the progress that they can make it with regular determination.

In conclusion, regardless of the problems associated with time allocation between subjects, I reckon that development towards taking the art seriuosly is a favourable chamge as it can be powerful form of self-expression.