Cambridge IELTS 20 Task 2: Summer Holidays at school (Band 7+ Sample Answer)
In many countries, primary and secondary schools close for two months or more in the summer holidays.
What is the value of long school holidays?
What are the arguments in favour of shorter school holidays?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Analysing the question : This is a double-question essay. The first question asks about the value of long school holidays, while the second one is about the arguments favouring the shorter holidays.
Ideas
First Question – Value of long school holidays
Opportunity for family bonding and extra curricular activities
Second Question – Argument favouring Shorter holidays
Maintaining academic continuity is important
How to Structure the Essay:
Introduction
- Paraphrase the topic
- Outline both the answers
Body Paragraph 1 (Answer the first question)
- Topic Sentence
- Explain the idea
- Provide an example
- Link with the topic
Body Paragraph 2 (Answer the second question)
- Topic Sentence
- Explain the idea
- Provide an example
- Link with the topic
Conclusion
- Summarise by highlighting both the points again
Band 7 Sample Answer
Many primary and secondary schools across the world declare holidays for a couple of months during summers. This period is an excellent opportunity for family bonding and extra-curricular development, even though critics may argue that holidays should be shorter for better academic performance.
A longer holiday duration means students can connect with their relatives, cousins and grand-parents, and make memories by going out for a vacation together. This helps strengthen family bonds and students understand the significance of relations in their lives. They may also indulge in leisure-time activities of their choice, such as music, dance or sports, which is beneficial for their holistic development. In India, summer holidays bring joy and excitement for children and teenagers because they travel with their families, visit maternal grandparents and join their favourite hobby classes. This is possible only because the summer break is spread across a couple of months.
Despite these advantages, some critics often argue that an extended break may have a negative effect on the learning outcomes. They claim that when students remain away from studies for a longer period, they may lose momentum and struggle to get back to their academic routines. This is especially true for subjects, such as science and mathematics, where regular practice is crucial. That is why, they often press for smaller breaks which they believe provide adequate rest, without affecting their learning rhythm.
To conclude, an extended summer vacation is significant as it gives students some time to bond with families and participate in extra-curricular activities. Nevertheless, reduced holidays are preferred by those who wish to maintain academic continuity and avoid gaps in learning. Ultimately, the focus of every education system is on holistic as well as academic development of learners.
(287 words)
