Wednesday, 11 August 2010

Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)

It is generally believed that some people are born with certain talents, for instance for sport or music, and others are not. However, it is sometimes claimed that any child can be taught to become a good sports person or musician.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion.


Who can forget the outstanding musical talent of Mozart who started out very young or the long-standing golf skills of Tiger Woods? These people are often referred to as child prodigies and are thought to have acquired their skills from birth. Other well-known and talented artists like Madonna have required years of hard work and dedication to reach the top.

It is often said that if a person is good at something, 10% of this is due to talent and 90% the result of hard work. Music and sports require long hours of training and practice. I think it is possible to teach any child how to become great at sports and music. For example, many Chinese Olympic gold medallists are trained from a very young age how to be winners.

Natural talents or aptitudes can be understood as an early interest in a subject. David Beckham for example began playing football young and spent a lot of his free time on the field. It was easier for him to become a well-known player as he was merely doing what he enjoyed best. These kinds of people are thought of as being born talented which gives less importance to all the hours of practice and the struggles faced to become successful.

As with all subjects, I believe music and sports can be taught. The degree to which someone is good at something depends on factors like dedication, creativity, a supportive network and opportunities available to develop a talent. Even if someone is born with certain talents, they still require skills and techniques to improve and excel, which can be provided through lessons. As long as someone is passionate about what they do, they can be taught well.

Cambridge, Ielts 7 past papers, p. 31

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