Some people think that researching the past is a waste of time and money. We should instead focus on the issues of today's world. To what extent do you agree or disagree? | 21 June ielts writing task 2

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🧠 Ideas

🔹 Agree (We should focus on present issues):

1. Urgent global challenges need immediate attention

   • Climate change, poverty, pandemics, and economic crises are current problems requiring solutions.

2. Limited resources (time, money)

   • Governments and organizations should allocate funding to solve present-day issues instead of dwelling on the past.

3. Modern challenges need modern solutions

   • Looking ahead encourages innovation and progress in science, health, and education.

4. Past cannot be changed

   • Focusing too much on history may waste time with little practical benefit.

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🔹 Disagree (Studying the past is still valuable):

1. History helps avoid repeating mistakes

   • Wars, failed policies, and pandemics provide lessons to make better decisions today.

2. Understanding the roots of current problems

   • Many modern issues (e.g. racial inequality, political conflict) have historical causes.

3. Advancing academic and scientific knowledge

   • Archaeology, anthropology, and historical research enrich our understanding of humanity.

4. Cultural identity and national heritage

   • The past shapes values, beliefs, and unity in society.

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✍️ Band 7.5+ Sample Answer

Some individuals argue that focusing on current global issues is more important than investing time and money in studying the past. While I acknowledge the importance of addressing present-day challenges, I believe that learning from history is equally essential and should not be neglected.

On the one hand, the world today is facing a range of serious problems such as climate change, poverty, and healthcare crises. These issues demand immediate attention, innovation, and investment. Resources are limited, and many people feel that funding historical research may not bring direct solutions to the pressing concerns of modern society. Moreover, rapid technological advancement requires us to look forward and prepare for future changes, rather than spending too much time reflecting on events that cannot be altered.

However, the study of the past holds undeniable value. History provides us with lessons from previous failures and successes, helping societies avoid repeating the same mistakes. For instance, understanding the causes of world wars or past pandemics can inform better policymaking today. In addition, many of today’s issues have deep historical roots. Racial tensions, territorial disputes, and even economic inequalities often stem from past actions or policies, which must be understood to address them effectively. Furthermore, preserving historical knowledge promotes cultural awareness and strengthens national identity.

In conclusion, although it is important to tackle present-day challenges with urgency, dismissing the importance of historical research would be shortsighted. I believe that a balanced approach—where both past and present are given attention—is the most effective way to create a better future.

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📚 Useful Vocabulary & Phrases

Vocabulary / Phrase	Meaning / Usage
Pressing concerns	Urgent and important problems
Dwell on the past	Focus too much on historical events
Valuable insights	Important lessons or understandings
Historical roots	Origins or causes found in the past
Prevent repeating mistakes	Avoid making the same errors as before
Cultural awareness	Understanding and appreciating other cultures
National identity	A country’s shared history, traditions, and values
A balanced approach	Giving fair importance to both sides

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