WRITING TASK 2
Many people believe that formal pen-and-paper examinations are not the best way to assess educational achievement. Furthermore, some view them as an outdated method for testing students’ abilities. One of the main arguments against these exams is that a small percentage of students may cheat during the tests. Conversely, there are still many who defend pen-and-paper examinations, believing they have value. From my perspective, I believe that both systems have their flaws, which can create confusion for both students and teachers.
Firstly, those who defend the argument against pen-and-paper examinations cite two main reasons. The first reason involves the issue of cheating, which frequently tops the list of concerns. During exams, there are typically two groups of students: those who are committed to their studies and those who resort to dishonest methods such as copying or using unauthorized aids. This creates a significant conflict, which I don’t believe can be easily resolved. Additionally, there are instances where teachers may show favoritism towards certain students due to their relationships with their parents. For example, if a student’s parents are well-known or have a good rapport with the teacher, the teacher might unfairly pass that student or grant them higher grades.
Secondly, some members of the education community believe that pen-and-paper examinations are a legitimate means to test and measure students’ levels of knowledge. However, this perspective can be seen as dogmatic and overlooks other effective assessment methods.
In conclusion, as I have mentioned, it is challenging to satisfy both sides of this debate. Many people believe that formal pen-and-paper examinations are not the best method for assessing educational achievement, while others may not recognize the shortcomings of this approach. It would benefit both groups to engage in further discussions about this conflict and consider a more balanced view.