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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

In some schools and universities, girls tend to choose arts subjects (e.g. literature, history), and boys tend to choose science subjects (e.g. physics, mathematics).

Why do you think this is so?
Should this tendency be changed?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer 1:
In many academic institutions, gender-based segregation in the selection of academic subjects is a pervasive issue. Girls often gravitate towards arts and humanities courses, such as literature and history, while boys tend to choose science and technology majors like physics, chemistry, engineering and mathematics. There are several reasons why this trend persists, and it is crucial to explore the root cause for such inclinations because it should be changed.

One reason why girls prefer humanities over science and technology subjects may be due to societal expectations and gender stereotyping. From a young age, girls are often encouraged to develop social and emotional skills, while boys are encouraged to cultivate intellectual and analytical abilities. As a result, girls may feel less confident in science and technology fields, believing that these subjects are too challenging for them. On the other hand, boys may feel that arts subjects are not masculine enough and may hesitate to choose them.

Another reason for gender segregation in academic subjects is the absence of female representation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Women are underrepresented in many science and technology professions, which discourages girls from pursuing these careers. They may believe that the sector is not suitable for them or that they will encounter sexism or discrimination.

The tendency to choose specific academic subjects based on gender is detrimental to students as well as society. It can limit learners' academic opportunities and future career options. This is why the tendency needs to be changed and students should have access to all subjects regardless of gender, and educators should ensure that they provide an inclusive learning environment.

In conclusion, the segregation of academic subjects based on gender is a complex issue that requires attention from both society and education providers. While there may be several reasons why this trend exists, it is essential to recognize the drawbacks and strive for inclusivity. Encouraging students to choose subjects based on their interests and aptitudes rather than gender will foster a more equitable and diverse society.

Sample Answer 2:
According to traditional belief, men are the breadwinners while females are caregivers and responsible for taking care of the family. This belief, along with some old-fashioned views like boys are good at mathematics while females are not, is the primary reason for many parents to encourage their sons to study science while daughters are in art-related subjects. I wholeheartedly believe that this trend should change.

To begin with, it is generally believed that boys are good at science-related subjects. This view is rooted so deeply in our society that many females have already accepted it. This is more prevalent in developing countries where parents expect their sons to have a career while daughters become moderately educated and finally get married and have a family. Strangely, studying science majors requires more money in most countries, and this is why parents naturally select their boys to study science. Females, on the other hand, need to take many responsibilities of the family, even during their academic life and prefer to have subjects that do not require a great deal of group work, lab and practical classes.

Men and women have similar capacities and potentials. Given equal opportunity, many women would excel in science-related subjects. Great scientists like Marie Curie, Ada Lovelace, and Emilie du Chatelet have proved that women are no less capable than men when it comes to science. The egregious trend of gender discrimination, even in the education sector, should stop. The good news is that women in many engineering and technology subjects are already occupying half of the seats in many prestigious universities. Thus the day is not far away when the social custom or emotional aversion of parents would accept that their daughters are just as talented as their sons are in any area, including science.

To conclude, women-empowerment is quite an essential factor for the overall development of a nation, and that is why females should get a fair chance to participate in any subjects, including science majors, in schools, colleges and universities. This trend would bring more positive outcomes and make society unprejudiced and prosperous.

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