IELTS.international
Discussionacademic·2018

Some people think that studying history is a waste of time for students who are preparing for future jobs. Others believe that it is essential to learn history. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Andika angalau maneno 250. Unapaswa kutumia takriban dakika 40 katika kazi hii.

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Step 1

Vidokezo vya Mtahini kwa Mada Hii

1

For this 'Discuss both views and give your opinion' essay, dedicate a distinct body paragraph to each perspective presented in the prompt. For instance, BP1 could explore why history might be seen as a 'waste of time' for job preparation, while BP2 would detail why it is 'essential'. Crucially, avoid blending these views within a single paragraph or presenting only one side strongly; a balanced discussion of both before offering your own informed opinion in the conclusion is vital for a high score.

2

To support the 'waste of time' view, you could argue that modern job markets prioritize STEM skills or vocational training, making history seem less directly applicable. For the 'essential' view, consider how understanding historical events (e.g., economic crises like the Great Depression or geopolitical conflicts) provides critical context for current affairs and future decision-making in fields like international relations or business strategy. You might also mention how studying history cultivates critical thinking, analytical skills, and an understanding of human behaviour, which are transferable assets in any profession.

3

The most common mistake on this question is failing to adequately 'discuss' both views, often by either dismissing one view too quickly or presenting only a superficial argument for it. Students might also neglect to explicitly state their own opinion, or introduce it too early, making the essay unbalanced. To avoid this, ensure each body paragraph fully develops one perspective with supporting ideas and examples, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of why someone might hold that view, before clearly articulating your personal stance in the concluding paragraph.

4

For a smooth transition between discussing the two opposing views, use phrases that signal a shift in perspective. For example, after discussing the 'waste of time' view, you could begin the next paragraph with 'Conversely,' 'However, an alternative perspective posits that,' or 'On the other hand, proponents of history education argue that...'. These clear signposts help the examiner follow your line of reasoning and demonstrate sophisticated cohesion and coherence in your essay structure.

5

Examiners look for a sophisticated and nuanced discussion that doesn't just list arguments but explores the underlying reasons and implications of each view. A band 8-9 essay will demonstrate a deep understanding of the topic, using precise academic vocabulary to articulate complex ideas about the value of different educational disciplines. Furthermore, it will present a clear, well-supported personal opinion that logically follows from the preceding discussion, showcasing excellent critical thinking and a coherent, well-developed argument throughout.

Step 2

Muundo wa Aya Unaopendekezwa

1
Utangulizi

Tambulisha pande zote mbili za mjadala na utaje ni ipi utakayoizungumzia.

  • Monyeshe mtahini kuwa unaelewa mitazamo YOTE MIWILI.
  • Kwa hiari, taja upande unaounga mkono.
  • Dumisha mtazamo usioegemea upande wowote na wenye uwiano.

Misemo ya Kuanzia

There are differing opinions on whether...While some people believe that..., others argue that...This essay will examine both perspectives before reaching a conclusion.
2
Aya ya Mwili 1 — Mtazamo wa Kwanza

Wasilisha upande mmoja wa hoja kwa usawa, ukiwa na ushahidi.

  • Hata kama hukubaliani, wasilisha mtazamo huu kwa heshima na kwa mfano halisi.
  • Tumia lugha ya kuripoti: 'Some argue...', 'Proponents suggest...'
  • Malizia kwa kutambua nguvu ya mtazamo huu.

Misemo ya Kuanzia

On the one hand, supporters of this view argue that...Those in favour point out that...A key argument for this position is...
3
Kifungu cha Mwili 2 — Mtazamo Tofauti

Wasilisha upande mwingine kwa kina na ushahidi sawa.

  • Linganisha muundo wa aya ya 1 kwa usawa.
  • Tumia maneno ya kuunganisha yenye utofauti ili kuashiria mabadiliko.
  • Ikiwa una maoni, aya hii inaweza kuwa na nguvu zaidi kidogo.

Misemo ya Kuanzia

On the other hand, critics contend that...However, there is a strong counter-argument...Conversely, many people feel that...
4
Hitimisho

Fupisha maoni yote mawili na utoe maoni yako mwenyewe (ikiwa utaulizwa).

  • Kubali uhalali wa pande zote mbili
  • Taja upendeleo wako waziwazi ikiwa swali linauliza 'give your opinion'
  • Usikae katikati kila wakati — chukua msimamo.

Misemo ya Kuanzia

In conclusion, while both sides have merit, I believe that...Having considered both arguments, it seems that...

Step 3

Msamiati Muhimu

historical precedentsPast events or actions that serve as examples or justifications for present or future ones.
socio-political landscapeThe combination of social and political factors that characterize a particular society or period.
transferable skillsAbilities and knowledge acquired in one context that can be applied to another.
it is widely acknowledged thatA phrase used to introduce a generally accepted fact or belief.
a compelling argument can be madeA phrase used to introduce a strong and persuasive reason or point.
this notion is predicated onThis idea is based or dependent on.
from my perspectiveIn my opinion; from my point of view.
the evidence overwhelmingly suggestsThere is a great deal of proof indicating.
notwithstandingIn spite of; despite.
this is not to say thatThis does not mean that.

Step 4

Academic Phrases for This Essay Type

It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignore

Kujumlisha

MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is more

Tofauti

HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConversely

Sababu / Athari

ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads to

Mfano

For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch as

Ruzuku

AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedly

Step 5

Grammar Patterns for Band 7+

Sentensi changamano yenye konsesheni

Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.

Inamwonyesha mtahini kuwa unaweza kushughulikia sentensi tegemezi. Anza na 'Although/While' + mtazamo tofauti, kisha toa mtazamo wako.

Masharti (Aina ya 2)

If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.

Inafaa kwa hoja na suluhisho za kinadharia. 'If + past simple, would + infinitive'.

Sauti ya utendaji kwa ajili ya sauti ya kitaaluma

It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.

Uandishi wa kitaaluma unapendelea matumizi ya sauti ya upatanishi. 'It is + past participle + that' inasikika kuwa na mamlaka.

Kifungu cha uhusiano

Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.

Vifungu vya uhusiano huongeza maelezo bila kuanza sentensi mpya. Tumia 'who' kwa watu, 'which' kwa vitu.

Kifungu cha nomino kwa msongamano

The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.

Weka taarifa katika virai nomino badala ya kutumia sentensi nyingi fupi. Hii itakusaidia kupata alama za juu katika Lexical Resource.

Step 6

Jibu la Mfano

Jisajili bila malipo ili usome jibu kamili la mfano kwa mada hii.

Jisajili ili Usome Jibu la Mfano

Mazoezi kwenye Karatasi

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Pakua Karatasi ya Majibu (PDF)

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