Writing question
Some people say learning a musical instrument is a good thing to do when you are young. Do you agree with this statement? Give your personal opinion, backing up your points with examples.
Practise this exact question with personalised feedback on your writing.
Understand the task
Decide whether children benefit from learning an instrument and explain why. Use examples such as discipline, enjoyment or opportunity, with a clear line of argument.
- opinion writing
- examples
- paragraph coherence
- reasoning
Requirements to keep in mind
Say whether you agree; support your opinion with examples.
Plan your response
- Make your opinion clear in the opening paragraph.
- Give a different reason in each main paragraph.
- Support your points with examples from school, practice or personal experience.
- Consider one opposing view and respond fairly.
- Finish with a conclusion that answers the original question.
Check your response against the task requirements. Leave time to review sentence clarity, punctuation and spelling.
Original atoply example response
Written by atoply, not an official school answer or mark scheme. Other successful responses are possible.
Reveal example and teaching notes
A Skill Worth Learning
When I first tried to play the keyboard, my fingers stumbled over the notes and the tune sounded dreadful. A few weeks later, however, I managed to play a whole piece without stopping. That feeling of achievement is one reason I believe learning a musical instrument is a wonderful opportunity for young people.
Firstly, music teaches patience. Nobody can learn a difficult tune in five minutes. You have to practise small sections, listen carefully and try again when something goes wrong. These habits can help in other subjects too. For example, a pupil who learns not to give up on a tricky piano piece might also be more determined when solving a challenging maths problem.
Secondly, playing music can bring people together. An orchestra or school band depends on everyone listening to one another. Even a beginner can enjoy making music with friends, and performing together can build confidence. I also think playing a familiar melody is a brilliant way to relax after a busy day.
Of course, lessons and instruments can be expensive, and some children would rather spend their time on sport, art or reading. Nobody should be forced to practise an instrument they dislike. Schools could help by offering clubs and instruments that pupils can borrow, so more children have the chance to try.
In my opinion, every young person should have the opportunity to learn an instrument, even if they do not continue forever. They might discover a lifelong passion — and, at the very least, learn that progress comes from effort.
Learn from the example
- The response connects a central idea to reasons or qualifications, creating a line of thought rather than a list of opinions.
- In a full response, develop the supporting examples and address a different view before reaching a conclusion that answers the question.