You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
In developing countries, children in rural communities have less access to education. Some people believe that the problem can be solved by providing more schools and teachers, while others think that the problem can be solved by providing computers and Internet access. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Sample Answer
In less developed countries, the lack of educational provision for children in rural areas is a serious issue. While there are strong arguments thatinstalling more computers and extending internet connection could help to tackle this problem, I believe that the top priority should be to build more schools and employ more teachers.
On the one hand, providing computers and wider internet connection for remote rural areas is important. Firstly, internet access offers an unlimited source of information. Therefore, it is possible for pupils in rural communities to take advantage of distance learning educational programmes, giving them the same opportunities as children in city schools. Secondly, the introduction of computers enables children to acquire IT skills. It is evident that without such skills, pupils cannot learn how to use Microsoft Office or search for information online, abilities which will increase their future employment prospects.
On the other hand, I agree with those who contend that it is better to provide more schools and teachers in rural areas. The principal reason is that teachers play a vital role in the early stages of teaching basic literacy and numeracy, without which the computer and the internet are little more than playthings. In these early years, the teacher is a mentor who interacts directly with pupils, enlightens them and instils in them the value of learning. Another reason is that the more schools that there are in rural communities, the more likely is the realisation of the goal of universal education. With proper guidance from teachers, pupils can make the most of online resources, and the educational level in developing countries will be raised.
In conclusion, I would argue that the provision of more schools and teachers is a vital first step in widening access to education for children in rural communities.
299 words
Vocab Highlights
installing: fixing equipment into a position so that it can be used.
top priority: something that you think is more important than other things and which should therefore be done first.
remote: far from places where other people live.
distance learning: a system of education in which people study at home with the help of the internet or TV programmes and e-mail work to their teachers.
acquire: gain something by your own efforts or skills.
employment prospects: the chances of successfully finding a job.
literacy and numeracy: the ability to read, write and understand numbers.
playthings: toys.
mentor: an experienced person who helps and guides someone younger or with less experience.
enlighten: give information to someone, so that they understand something better.
instil: make someone feel, think or behave in a particular way.
realisation: the process of achieving an aim or ambition.