Some people argue that primary schools focus too much on formal learning. To what extent do you agree with this opinion? How important do you think it is for children to play as well as learn in the primary school classroom?

It’s often argued that primary schools 1place too much emphasis onemphasise too much on academic learning. I largely agree with the point, and I believe that play 2servesplays an 3essentialinevitable role in education.

It’s true that formal learning is necessary. 4Children who are studying in primary school don’t learn the systems of various subjects, which means they don’t even understand any knowledge and ways of tackling difficulties 5without the intervention of schoolswithout intervention of schools. Students can learn about and practise a host of skills, such as arithmetic, reading, and other languages. Conversely, this 6approachmanner also creates significant disadvantages. Firstly, examination is the main concern. 7If teachers would like to test whether a student masters or not, the only way is 8testingquiz. With 9an excessive number of testsa quantity of tests rushing in, students may recite points instead of real understanding. Additionally, to cope with exams, children will spend much time studying, thus reducing relaxation and entertainment. Children 10lack free activitieslack of free activities, social interaction and exploration over time, which gives them too 11muchlarge stress and allows them to loss interests of studying,thereby developing psychological problems. 12Students’ mental well-beingThe health of students’ mental well-being is more crucial than other factors.

Some people suppose that play and study can not coexist. However, I don’t believe so. First of all, teaching through lively activities can cultivate children’s creativity and imagination. 14Students who are studying in primary school are restless,thus they can’t contribute on classes themselves totally, so 15incorporating play into teachingadding plays to teaching can better help them 16absorb core conceptsget to know about knowledge points. What’s more, when children play together, they learn to share, negotiate, and resolve small conflicts. These social skills are as important as reading and writing for their future development. Last but not least, playing is obviously so interesting that it can decrease dullness and stress, and improve motivation for studying, which can lay the foundation for long-term study.

Above all, most primary schools should 17not only focus on formal learning, but also incorporate play into the curriculumnot only focus on formal learning, but also pay attention to playing and entertainment as well. I believe that teaching through play is an effective way for children in education.