Question
Some people believe that technology has made teachers less important in the classroom. Others believe teachers are still essential for effective learning.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
How to write it
A clear structure for this essay:
Introduction
Paraphrase the question and give your opinion.
Body paragraph 1
Explain why some people think technology has reduced the role of teachers.
Body paragraph 2
Explain why teachers are still important.
Conclusion
Summarise both sides and restate your opinion clearly.
Main ideas you can use
- Technology gives students instant access to information
- Online platforms allow flexible, independent study
- Teachers guide, motivate and correct students
- Human support is still important for discussion and deeper understanding
Band 6 sample
Technology has changed education in many ways, and some people think this means teachers are not as important as before. However, others believe teachers still play a very important role in learning. In my opinion, technology is useful, but teachers are still essential.
On the one hand, technology has made learning easier and more convenient. Students can watch lessons online, search for information quickly and use apps to practise different skills. This means they do not always need a teacher to explain basic facts. For example, many people now learn languages, maths or computer skills through websites and videos. As a result, some people feel that technology can replace part of the teacher’s job.
On the other hand, teachers are still needed for many reasons. First, they can explain difficult ideas in a clear way and answer students’ questions immediately. Second, they can give support and encouragement, which technology cannot do properly. Many students also need discipline and direction in order to learn well. A teacher can see when a student is confused, but a machine usually cannot respond in the same human way.
In conclusion, technology has become a valuable tool in education and has changed the classroom a lot. However, I believe teachers are still necessary because they provide guidance, feedback and personal support that technology cannot fully replace.
Band 8 sample
In recent years, digital tools have transformed the way people learn, leading some to argue that teachers have become less important. Others maintain that teachers remain central to successful education. While technology has undoubtedly increased access to knowledge, I believe skilled teachers are still indispensable.
Those who see technology as reducing the importance of teachers often point to the efficiency and flexibility it offers. Students can now access lectures, exercises and reference material at any time, often at little or no cost. This encourages independent learning and allows learners to progress at their own pace. In some cases, educational software can even provide instant feedback, making certain aspects of study more efficient than traditional classroom methods. For routine content delivery, technology can therefore perform part of the teacher’s function very effectively.
Nevertheless, the value of a teacher extends far beyond delivering information. Effective learning depends not only on access to content but also on explanation, judgement and motivation. Teachers help students interpret complex ideas, ask better questions and connect concepts in meaningful ways. They also adapt their methods according to the needs of individuals, which is especially important for weaker learners who may struggle without personal guidance. In addition, teachers play an important social role by building confidence, encouraging participation and creating a structured learning environment.
In my view, technology should be seen as a powerful support for education rather than a substitute for teachers. It can improve convenience and widen access, but it cannot fully replace human insight, encouragement and adaptability. For that reason, teachers remain essential in the modern classroom.
