Environmental awareness in schools has become an increasingly important topic in recent years. This theme has appeared in several IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, reflecting its growing significance in society. Based on past exam trends and current global concerns, it’s likely that questions related to environmental education will continue to feature prominently in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent exams:

Some people believe that schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Others believe that this is the role of parents. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question, while not directly mentioning environmental awareness, provides an excellent opportunity to discuss the role of schools in promoting social responsibility, including environmental consciousness. The task requires:

1. Discussing the view that schools should teach children to be good members of society
2. Discussing the view that parents should be responsible for this
3. Providing your own opinion on the matter

When approaching this topic, candidates can incorporate environmental awareness as a key aspect of being a good member of society.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that addresses the question while incorporating the theme of environmental awareness:

In today’s rapidly changing world, the question of who should be responsible for teaching children to be good members of society is increasingly pertinent. While some argue that this responsibility lies solely with parents, others believe schools should play a crucial role. In my opinion, both institutions are equally important in shaping socially responsible citizens, particularly when it comes to critical issues like environmental awareness.

Those who advocate for parental responsibility argue that the family is the primary social unit and the first place where children learn values and behaviors. Parents are in a unique position to model good citizenship, including environmentally conscious actions, on a daily basis. For instance, they can demonstrate recycling habits, energy conservation, and respect for nature during family activities. This constant, personalized guidance can have a profound impact on a child’s development as a responsible member of society.

On the other hand, proponents of school-based social education emphasize the broader perspective and structured learning environment that educational institutions can provide. Schools have the resources and expertise to offer comprehensive programs on social responsibility, including environmental education. They can organize activities like eco-clubs, tree-planting drives, and sustainability projects that give students hands-on experience in being environmentally conscious citizens. Moreover, schools bring together diverse groups of children, allowing for a more inclusive understanding of societal needs and challenges.

In my view, the most effective approach is a collaborative effort between parents and schools. While parents lay the foundation for social values at home, schools can reinforce and expand upon these lessons in a structured, diverse setting. For example, a child who learns about recycling at home can participate in school-wide recycling initiatives, gaining a deeper understanding of its importance and impact on a larger scale. This synergy between home and school creates a powerful learning environment that can effectively nurture socially and environmentally responsible citizens.

In conclusion, the responsibility of teaching children to be good members of society, particularly in areas like environmental awareness, should be shared between parents and schools. This collaborative approach ensures that children receive consistent guidance at home and comprehensive, practical education at school, preparing them to be responsible, environmentally conscious citizens in an increasingly complex world.

(Word count: 344)

Environmental Education in Schools

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:

In modern society, there is a debate about who should teach children to be good members of society. Some people think schools should do this, while others believe it’s the job of parents. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Those who support schools teaching social responsibility say that schools have trained teachers and resources. They can teach children about important issues like environmental awareness through lessons and activities. For example, schools can organize recycling programs or nature clubs. This helps children learn about being good citizens in a structured way.

On the other hand, people who think parents should teach these values say that family is the first place children learn about life. Parents can show their children how to be good members of society every day. They can teach about saving energy at home or not littering in parks. This personal example from parents can be very powerful for children.

In my opinion, both schools and parents are important for teaching children to be good members of society. Schools can provide knowledge and organized activities, while parents can give daily examples and personal guidance. For instance, if a child learns about climate change at school, parents can support this by showing how to reduce carbon footprint at home.

To conclude, I believe that teaching children to be responsible citizens, including being environmentally aware, should be done by both schools and parents. This combination can help children understand their role in society better and become more responsible adults.

(Word count: 262)

Key Points to Note When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced discussion.

2. Vocabulary: The higher band essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases like “pertinent,” “advocate,” “profound impact,” and “synergy.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Grammar: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses mostly simple and compound sentences with some complex structures.

4. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more thorough analysis.

5. Coherence and Cohesion: The higher band essay shows more sophisticated use of linking words and ideas flow more smoothly between sentences and paragraphs.

Vocabulary to Remember

1. Environmental awareness (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl əˈweənəs/ – consciousness of environmental issues
2. Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain at a certain rate or level
3. Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – not harmful to the environment
4. Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – prevention of wasteful use of a resource
5. Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
6. Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – energy from a source that is not depleted when used
7. Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities
8. Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment

Conclusion

The topic of promoting environmental awareness in schools is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might focus more specifically on environmental education, such as:

• Do you think environmental studies should be a compulsory subject in schools?
• Some people believe that children should spend more time outdoors learning about nature. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of integrating environmental awareness into all school subjects.

To practice, try writing an essay on one of these topics or the one discussed in this article. Feel free to share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Remember, regular practice is key to improving your IELTS Writing skills!