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?

1It is oftenIt’s often argued that primary schools place too much emphasis on academic learning. I largely agree 2with this viewwith the point, and I believe that play serves an essential role in education.

3It is trueIt’s true that formal learning is necessary. Primary school children have not yet developed systematic knowledge across subjects, meaning that without the intervention of schools, they would struggle to acquire basic literacy or problem-solving skills such as arithmetic, reading, and other languages. However, this is not to say that formal learning itself is harmful. The problem arises when it becomes the only focus of primary education. Firstly, 4examinations areexamination is the main concern. When teachers assess whether students have mastered key skills, quizzes are often used as the primary tool. With an excessive number of tests, students may 5memorise facts mechanicallyrecite points instead of 6developing a genuine understandingreal understanding. Additionally, to cope with exams, children will spend much time studying, thus reducing relaxation and entertainment. Children lack 7unstructured playfree activities, social interaction and exploration over time, which 8imposes excessive stress on themgives them too much stress and allows them to loss interests of studying, thereby developing psychological problems. Students’ mental well-being is more crucial than other factors.

Some people suppose that play and study can not coexist. However, 9I do not believeI don’t believe so. First of all, teaching through lively activities can cultivate children’s creativity and imagination. Because primary school pupils are naturally active and can find it difficult to concentrate for long periods, incorporating play into lessons 10helps sustain their engagement and helps them absorbhelps sustain their engagement and absorb core concepts. 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 11relieve boredom and stressdecrease the dull and stress, and improve 12motivation to studythe motivation of studying, which can lay the foundation for long-term study.

Above all, most primary schools should not only focus on formal learning, but also incorporate play into the curriculum. I believe that teaching through play is an effective way for children in education.