IELTS Writing Task 2: Mastering Essays on Promoting Youth Entrepreneurship (Band 7-9 Samples)

The topic of promoting entrepreneurship among young people is increasingly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving job market. This theme has appeared in various forms in past IELTS examinations and is likely to continue being a popular subject for future tests. Given its significance, let’s explore a typical question on this topic and analyze how to craft high-scoring responses.

Youth Entrepreneurship

Analyzing the Question

Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:

Some people believe that schools should teach children the skills needed to become entrepreneurs, while others think this is not the role of schools. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question falls under the “discuss both views and give your opinion” category, which requires a balanced approach. You need to:

1. Explain why some people think schools should teach entrepreneurial skills
2. Present the opposing view that this is not the role of schools
3. Provide your personal stance on the issue

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay addressing the question:

In today’s rapidly changing economic landscape, the debate over whether schools should incorporate entrepreneurship education into their curriculum has gained significant traction. While some argue that this is essential for preparing students for the future job market, others contend that it falls outside the purview of traditional education. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Proponents of entrepreneurship education in schools argue that it equips students with valuable life skills. They believe that teaching entrepreneurial thinking fosters creativity, problem-solving abilities, and financial literacy – competencies that are increasingly crucial in the modern workforce. Moreover, introducing young people to the concept of entrepreneurship early on can inspire them to consider self-employment as a viable career path, potentially leading to job creation and economic growth.

On the other hand, critics argue that the primary role of schools is to provide a broad, foundational education rather than vocational training. They contend that focusing on entrepreneurship might detract from core subjects such as mathematics, sciences, and languages, which are essential for a well-rounded education. Additionally, some argue that entrepreneurship is a skill best learned through real-world experience rather than classroom instruction.

In my opinion, while schools should not entirely shift their focus to entrepreneurship education, integrating some aspects of it into the curriculum could be highly beneficial. A balanced approach that incorporates entrepreneurial skills such as critical thinking, financial planning, and project management alongside traditional subjects could prepare students for a wider range of future opportunities. This approach would not only cater to potential entrepreneurs but also enhance the employability of all students in an increasingly competitive job market.

In conclusion, while the debate continues, I believe that a judicious integration of entrepreneurship education in schools can provide students with valuable skills without compromising the core educational objectives. By striking this balance, we can better prepare young people for the diverse challenges and opportunities they may encounter in their future careers.

(Word count: 309)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Now, let’s look at a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:

Nowadays, there is a discussion about whether schools should teach children how to be entrepreneurs. Some people think this is a good idea, while others disagree. In this essay, I will talk about both sides and give my opinion.

On one hand, teaching entrepreneurship in schools can be helpful for students. It can give them important skills like problem-solving and managing money. These skills are useful not just for starting a business, but also for many jobs. Also, if students learn about being entrepreneurs early, they might be more likely to start their own businesses in the future, which could help the economy.

However, some people think schools should not teach entrepreneurship. They say that schools should focus on basic subjects like math, science, and languages. They believe that entrepreneurship is something people can learn later, maybe in university or through experience. They worry that if schools spend too much time on entrepreneurship, students might not learn other important things well enough.

In my opinion, I think schools should teach some entrepreneurship skills, but not too much. It’s good for students to learn things like how to manage projects and think creatively. But schools should also make sure students learn all the basic subjects well. Maybe schools could have special classes or clubs for entrepreneurship, so students who are interested can learn more about it.

To sum up, while there are good arguments on both sides, I believe a balanced approach is best. Schools should introduce some entrepreneurship skills, but not at the expense of traditional subjects. This way, students can be prepared for many different futures, whether they want to start a business or work for someone else.

(Word count: 276)

Key Considerations When Writing

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

2. Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Argument Development: The higher-scoring essay provides more detailed explanations and examples to support each point, whereas the Band 6-7 essay offers more basic arguments.

4. Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words and phrases, but the Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more varied and sophisticated use of cohesive devices.

5. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides a more nuanced and well-developed response.

Important Vocabulary for This Topic

1. Entrepreneurship (noun) /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːʃɪp/ – the activity of setting up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit

2. Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – the subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college

3. Financial literacy (noun phrase) /faɪˈnænʃəl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – the ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills

4. Vocational training (noun phrase) /vəʊˈkeɪʃənl ˈtreɪnɪŋ/ – education that prepares people to work as a technician or in various jobs such as a trade or a craft

5. Critical thinking (noun phrase) /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment

6. Employability (noun) /ɪmˌplɔɪəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being suitable for paid work

7. Self-employment (noun) /ˌself ɪmˈplɔɪmənt/ – the state of working for oneself as a freelance or the owner of a business rather than for an employer

8. Economic growth (noun phrase) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈɡrəʊθ/ – an increase in the amount of goods and services produced per head of the population over a period of time

Remember to use these terms accurately and in context to demonstrate a high level of vocabulary in your essay.

Conclusion

The topic of promoting entrepreneurship among young people is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The role of education in preparing students for the job market
• The importance of practical skills versus academic knowledge in schools
• The impact of technology on future employment opportunities
• The balance between traditional subjects and modern skills in education

By familiarizing yourself with these topics and practicing your essay writing skills, you’ll be well-prepared for any question related to youth entrepreneurship that may appear in your IELTS exam.

We encourage you to try writing your own essay on the question provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and gain confidence in tackling similar topics in the IELTS Writing Task 2.

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

• How to Address the Challenges of Youth Unemployment
• Importance of Financial Literacy in Reducing Poverty
• Economic Impacts of the Creative Economy