Topic 3:

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write at least 250 words.
Some people think that art is an essential subject for children at school (viewpoint 1),
while others think that it is a waste of time (viewpoint 2). Discuss both sides of this
argument and then give your opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include any
relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own
knowledge and experience.

In today's world, one of the most debatable education-related issues is that whether art is
necessary in children's schooling or not. Numerous people believe that the subject is of great
importance while others hold the opposite idea. This essay will analyze each viewpoint and sum up
with my perspective on the matter.

On one side of the coin, a vast majority of people claim that the benefits of studying art
outweighs its disadvantages. The art subject encourages self-expression and creativity in youngsters'
growing and learning process. As students learn how to draw and use different colours to illustrate their
thoughts and imaginations, they develop a sense of individuality and confidence, which works well
with particularly shy kids. Besides, art is considered a means of relaxation as children can freely use
their imagination instead of having to sit still and memorize the lessons by rote.

On the other side of the coin, a number of individuals advocate the idea of abolishing art as this
subject is time-wasting. Children not only study art but they also have to take lessons in other subjects
such as Maths, Literature, Science, and so on. The amount of homework accumulating from each
subject creates a lot of strains on students' mental health; thus, subjects like art and music should not be
made compulsory. Another reason supporting this viewpoint infers future job opportunities. The
world’s rapid transformation towards technology, engineering and science-related sectors offers myriad
job prospects for those who prioritize studying STEM subjects at school. Hence, art gradually loses its
place among the other subjects, as well as the career opportunities it can bring about.

To summarize, both arguments have their merits and persuasive points. The first viewpoint
tends to child’s brain development while the second is rather practical and credible based on the current
status. From my own perspective, art should be an optional subject so that children can freely choose
what they want to learn and who they want to become.