Formal examinations are the only effective way to assess a student's performance. Continual assessment such as coursework and projects is not a satisfactory way to do this. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

While
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some educators argue that coursework and continuous assessment better reflect a student's capabilities, I firmly agree that formal
examinations
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are the most effective way to measure academic performance.
This
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is because
standardized
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standardised
show examples
exams
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ensure fairness and assess critical thinking under pressure, both of which are essential indicators of student competence. One major advantage of formal
examinations
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is their ability to provide a
standardized
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standardised
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and objective method of assessment.
Exams
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are conducted under controlled conditions with strict time limits, which reduce the likelihood of cheating or external interference.
This
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makes the evaluation process fairer and more consistent across a wide range of students.
For instance
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, national
standardized
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standardised
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exams
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in countries like South Korea and Japan play a crucial role in university admissions by providing a level playing field for applicants, regardless of their socioeconomic background or school quality.
Examinations
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also
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test important real-life skills
such
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as time management, decision-making, and the ability to work under pressure. Unlike coursework, which may allow unlimited time and external help,
exams
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require students to demonstrate their knowledge and reasoning skills within a limited timeframe.
For example
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, in fields
such
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as law or emergency medicine, professionals are often required to
analyze
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analyse
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situations and respond quickly. By simulating high-pressure environments, formal
exams
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better prepare students for
such
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professional challenges. In conclusion, formal
examinations
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remain the most reliable and effective means of evaluating academic performance,
due to
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their objectivity and their ability to test valuable skills needed beyond the classroom.

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task achievement
Consider adding more specific examples to strengthen your points further.
coherence and cohesion
Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs for better flow.
task achievement
Your introduction clearly states your position and main points.
coherence and cohesion
The structure of your essay is clear, with distinct sections for arguments and a strong conclusion.

Word Count

IELTS says that you should write a minimum of 250 words in writing task 2. If you go under word count you will lose marks in task response.

A very long essay will not give you a higher band score.

Aim for between 260 to 290 words in writing task 2. This will ensure a concise essay and will be realistic in terms of time management. You have only 40 minutes to write the essay and you need around 10 minutes of planning time, so you will not be able to write a long essay in 30 minutes.

Topic Vocabulary:
  • standardized assessment
  • criteria
  • benchmark
  • performance comparison
  • evaluation under pressure
  • simulate
  • real-world scenarios
  • time management
  • comprehensive coverage
  • subject grasp
  • objectivity
  • lifelong learning
  • engagement
  • practical application
  • skill development
  • creativity
  • critical thinking
  • problem-solving abilities
  • individualized feedback
  • student well-being
  • exam stress
  • academic environment
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