IELTS Agree or Disagree Essay: Education Topics with Sample Answers

Model Answer

It is widely believed that television cannot replace books as an effective learning tool, and this is often cited as a reason for the perceived decline in educational standards among children today. While I agree that books should not be completely replaced, I find it questionable to claim that education quality has declined in modern times.

To begin with, I agree that school textbooks are irreplaceable as the primary educational medium. They have been meticulously designed and continually updated over the years to align with the evolving requirements of curricula, whereas television programs have not undergone such rigorous educational scrutiny. Although TV can help broaden students’ knowledge, it is not practical for everyday use in classrooms because students may easily switch from educational content to entertainment. This is especially likely when the subject matter is perceived as challenging or unengaging. For these reasons, books remain a more dependable tool that minimizes distractions and fosters a conducive learning environment.

However, an important point to tackle is the claim that the quality of education has declined in recent years. I believe this argument is fundamentally flawed, as recent research indicates that an increasing number of students are choosing to pursue higher education, and the rates of illiteracy have significantly decreased. In addition, today’s youth often have a wider range of general knowledge compared to previous generations. This can be credited to the massive amount of information they receive from various media sources, including television and the Internet.

In conclusion, while I support the continued use of books as a foundation of education, I do not agree that children today are less well-educated. Thanks to diverse educational resources, they are acquiring more relevant and comprehensive knowledge than ever before.

Model AnswerThe advent of television in the twentieth century has profoundly transformed global communication, bridging cultural divides and fostering a sense of interconnectedness among nations. While some critics argue that television serves merely as a frivolous distraction and should be discouraged, I believe its wide-reaching impact has significantly empowered individuals and united communities across the globe.

Television has revolutionized the dissemination of vital information. A poignant example is the coverage of the September 11 attacks, which held global audiences’ attention with harrowing images and real-time updates. This event not only informed the public but also fostered a shared sense of grief and solidarity, as people from diverse backgrounds came together during a time of crisis. Additionally, television plays a key role in raising awareness about global issues. For instance, international broadcasts on climate change—such as documentaries aired by National Geographic or BBC—have educated millions about environmental challenges, encouraging people to adopt more sustainable lifestyles and pressuring governments to act.

On the other hand, detractors argue that television can stifle intellectual engagement and promote mindless entertainment, warranting its discouragement. Reflecting on my own experiences, I recall how, during my elementary school years, I would often return home to binge-watch cartoons for hours on end. This excessive viewing ultimately detracted from my academic responsibilities, leading to diminished study time and, consequently, poor grades by the end of the school year. This highlights how unregulated television consumption can negatively impact a child’s academic development and time management skills.

In conclusion, television remains a powerful medium that informs, connects, and inspires people globally. Despite concerns about overuse, its ability to raise awareness, foster unity, and educate viewers makes it an essential part of modern life when used mindfully.