Should competitive examinations be abolished: Argumentative Essay

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Last Updated on February 20, 2025 by sanjjeett

Hello students, we are providing English Essays for ICSE students. These essays are useful for ICSE Class 9 and 10 studying students. The resources for English Essays are not proper and organised. So, to help students we have created English Essays Series for ICSE students. In this article, you will find an argumentative essay on “Should competitive examinations be abolished”

SubjectEnglish
Type of EssayArgumentative Essay
Essay onShould competitive examinations be abolished
BoardICSE
ClassClass 9 and 10
Important LinkEnglish Essays for ICSE Class 9 and 10

Should competitive examinations be abolished? Discuss.

  • Introduction: What is competitive examination?
  • Need for competitive examinations.
  • Competitive examinations act like an imperfect sieve; it does not test a candidate’s suitability.
  • Only knowledge tested, other important attributes are overlooked.
  • Competitive examinations being highly subjective.
  • Need to augment by considering attributes, like personality, character, and will power.
  • Conclusion: Need to augment the existing system to make it realistic and objective.

All examinations are competitive in nature, as each candidate tries to secure the maximum marks. This is prevalent in studies as well as in every sphere of human activity and is the secret of our growth and development. Hence competitive examinations should not be abolished.

Competitive examinations are held to select candidates for civil services, banks, or for admission to reputed colleges. Such examinations are considered an egalitarian way of choosing worthy applicants without favouritism, influence, or any other consideration. The selection process therefore, uses the procedure of elimination, and selects candidates purely on the basis of their performance in the written examination. It tests candidates on specific subjects, knowledge, traits, and analytical reasoning. This is necessary because a large number of candidates apply for limited vacancies which make the competition tough.

Such a selection process is purely subjective and faulty. It tests a candidate’s knowledge on a certain subject, mental ability, and awareness, but does not judge other essential traits that are necessary for a particular job. Take for example the Indian Civil Service examination for recruiting people to the Indian Administrative Services. Every year lakhs of candidates appear for the examination, which evaluates their knowledge on certain subjects, quite oblivious to the fact, that there are more essential attributes required for a civil servant, like administrative ability, man management, tact, diplomacy, and quick decision-making.

Thus competitive examinations act like an imperfect sieve, through which candidates are selected subjectively, without analysing their suitability for the job. There is need for a proper form of evaluation, whereby an applicant’s potential can be objectively judged, taking into account his/her suitability for the job.

Competitive examinations being highly subjective, candidates pass them by selective cramming. This knowledge is therefore, superficial and hence, easily forgotten. It defeats the very purpose of selecting people with real knowledge and skill. This is proven by the fact that toppers in schools or colleges are not always successful, while mediocre ones, deemed by the present competitive examination excel in life.

There is therefore need to augment the present system of examination. Other important attributes, like personality, character, and will power also need to be evaluated. These are essential qualities for any responsible position, especially for a civil servant.

Despite all its anomalies there is need for some form of examination to select candidates from the teeming millions. Perhaps the existing system could be augmented with psychographic tests, group discussions, group tasks, and personal interviews to get a more realistic and objective assessment of the candidate’s other qualities beside knowledge. This would enable it to achieve the purpose for which it was intended.

Looking for more essays? Check out our complete ICSE English Essays Hub for all topics.

Also check

Guidelines for writing an argumentative essay

  • Jot down all the points that come to your mind under the heads ‘for’ and ‘against’.
  • Decide whether you are going to write ‘for’ or ‘against’ the statement. In case you are to discuss or give advantages and disadvantages, then you have to dwell on both aspects of the subject.
  • Begin with a statement of your assertion on the issue, whether it is for or against the proposition. State its importance and relevance.
  • In the body of the composition justify your assertion, by giving practical, and historical evidence, to substantiate your point.
  • Begin each point/justification in a separate paragraph, substantiating it logically.
  • Refute your opponents arguments/points already listed by you point by point, with practical and historical evidence to support your assertion.
  • Don’t use first person. Instead of saying, “I don’t think global warming is worth worrying about”, you may say, “A two degree rise in temperature over the next hundred years makes global warming a trivial problem.”
  • Reserve your strong points or argument towards the end.
  • Conclude with a well-thought out personal view on the subject.

Pitfalls of writing an argumentative composition

Having chosen your line of argument, do not waiver, by acceding to the point in favour of the opposition. You may only do so if you are required to discuss the subject, where you have to dwell on both the aspects.

Writing this type of composition is very rewarding. You should attempt it only if you have complete knowledge of the subject. Illogical arguments or arguments not properly supported by factual data or evidence would be counter-productive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on English Essays

Q1: What types of essays are included for ICSE Class 9 and 10 students?

A1: Essays for ICSE Class 9 and 10 students typically include descriptive essays, narrative essays, argumentative essays, and reflective essays. These essays cover a range of topics from personal experiences and observations to debates on social issues and creative writing.

Q2: What is the structure of a well-written essay for ICSE exams?

A2: A well-written essay typically follows this structure:
Introduction: Introduce the topic and present the thesis statement or main idea.
Body: Develop the main points or arguments with supporting details and examples. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of the topic.
Conclusion: Summarize the key points and restate the thesis in light of the arguments made. Offer a closing thought or reflection.

Q3: How can I improve my essay writing skills for ICSE exams?

A3: To improve your essay writing skills, practice regularly and seek feedback on your work. Focus on organizing your thoughts clearly, using appropriate vocabulary, and adhering to grammatical rules. Reading various essays and writing on different topics can also help enhance your skills.

Q4: Are there specific formats to follow for different types of essays?

A4: Yes, different types of essays may have specific formats:
Descriptive Essays: Focus on vividly describing a person, place, or event. Use sensory details to paint a clear picture.
Narrative Essays: Tell a story or recount an experience with a clear sequence of events and personal reflections.
Argumentative Essays: Present a clear argument on a topic, supported by evidence and counterarguments.
Reflective Essays: Reflect on personal experiences or events, exploring their significance and impact.

Q5: How important is it to adhere to word limits for ICSE essays?

A5: Adhering to word limits is important as it demonstrates your ability to convey ideas concisely and effectively. It also ensures that you follow exam guidelines and avoid overloading your essay with unnecessary information.

Q6: Can you provide tips for writing a compelling argumentative essay?

A6: To write a compelling argumentative essay:
Choose a Clear Position: Clearly state your stance on the issue.
Provide Strong Evidence: Support your arguments with facts, statistics, and examples.
Address Counterarguments: Acknowledge and refute opposing views to strengthen your position.
Conclude Effectively: Summarize your arguments and restate your position in a convincing manner.

Q7: Are there any common mistakes to avoid in ICSE essays?

A7: Common mistakes to avoid include:
Off-Topic Writing: Ensure your essay directly addresses the given topic or prompt.
Poor Organization: Structure your essay logically with clear paragraphs and transitions.
Overuse of Complex Vocabulary: Use vocabulary appropriately and avoid using words you are not comfortable with.

Q8: Where can I find additional resources for writing English essays?

A8: Additional resources for writing English essays can be found in:
Textbooks: Refer to your ICSE English textbooks for guidance and examples.
Online Guides: Explore educational websites and writing guides for tips and sample essays. XamContent offer a large number of English essays for icse students.

Should competitive examinations be abolished: Argumentative Essay

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