Fewer students are studying science at school and university, favoring more computer-based subjects instead.

Practice this IELTS Writing Task 2 question on IELTSX. Fewer students are studying science at school and university, favoring more computer-based subjects instead.

Fewer students studying science favoring computer-based subjects - IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

What are the reasons for this? Is this a positive or negative development?

Write at least 250 words.

A student's answer to this task, and the feedback on it

Written by an IELTSX user under exam conditions and published unedited and anonymously. Band 9 · 408 words.

In recent years, fewer students have chosen to study traditional science subjects at school and university, while computer-related disciplines have become increasingly popular. This shift can largely be explained by changes in the job market and students’ perceptions of career opportunities. Although the trend has certain advantages, I believe it is negative overall because society still heavily depends on scientific expertise.

One major reason for the decline in science education is the rapid growth of the technology sector. Careers connected to programming, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data analysis are often seen as more financially rewarding and flexible than careers in pure science. Many students believe that computer-based professions offer faster employment opportunities, higher salaries, and even the possibility of remote work. As a result, subjects such as computer science and software engineering appear more attractive than physics, chemistry, or biology, which are often associated with long years of study and demanding research careers.

Another contributing factor is the way science subjects are taught in many educational systems. Traditional sciences are frequently perceived as highly theoretical, difficult, and examination-focused. Students may spend years memorizing formulas and complex concepts without understanding their practical applications. In contrast, computer-based subjects often provide immediate and visible results. For example, a student learning coding can quickly create a website, application, or game, which gives a stronger sense of achievement and motivation.

Despite these reasons, I believe this development is negative overall. While technological fields are undeniably important, reducing the number of science students may create serious long-term problems for society. Scientific research remains essential for medical advancements, environmental protection, energy production, and technological innovation itself. Without enough scientists, progress in these areas could slow significantly. For instance, the development of vaccines, renewable energy systems, and solutions to climate change all depend heavily on experts in biology, chemistry, and physics.

Furthermore, computer-based disciplines and traditional sciences should not be viewed as opposites. In reality, many modern innovations rely on cooperation between both fields. Artificial intelligence in healthcare, for example, requires not only skilled programmers but also medical researchers and biologists. If too many students abandon science entirely, the balance of expertise needed for future progress may be weakened.

In conclusion, students are increasingly choosing computer-related subjects because these fields appear more practical, profitable, and accessible than traditional sciences. However, although this trend reflects modern economic realities, I believe it is ultimately a negative development, as scientific knowledge remains fundamental to humanity’s future progress and well-being.

Examiner feedback

This is an exceptionally strong essay that meets the descriptors for Band 9. It demonstrates a sophisticated level of linguistic control, with a logical flow of ideas and a very clear, persuasive argument. The vocabulary is natural and academic, while the grammar is flawless.

Task Response - 9

- Fully addresses all parts of the task by exploring reasons for the shift and providing a clear, well-supported opinion. - Ideas are fully extended, moving from the impact of the job market to the pedagogical differences between subjects. - The position remains consistent and nuanced throughout the response.

Coherence & Cohesion - 9

- Paragraphing is managed skilfully, with a clear introduction, logical progression of body paragraphs, and a concise conclusion. - Cohesion is seamless and attracts no negative attention; transitions like 'Furthermore' and 'In contrast' are used naturally. - Each paragraph focuses on a distinct, clear central topic with logical internal development.

Lexical Resource - 9

- Vocabulary is sophisticated and used with a high degree of naturalness (e.g., 'financially rewarding', 'examination-focused', 'technological innovation'). - Collocations are precise and varied, showing an effortless command of the English language. - No errors in spelling or word formation are present.

Grammatical Range & Accuracy - 9

- Uses a wide range of complex structures with full flexibility and precision. - The essay is effectively error-free with consistent control of punctuation. - Sophisticated use of conditional structures and complex nominalization (e.g., 'reducing the number of science students may create serious long-term problems').

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