Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: The Importance of Teaching Children about Mental Health

Mental health education for children has become an increasingly important topic in recent years, and it’s no surprise that it has made its way into IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. As an IELTS instructor, I’ve noticed a rising trend in questions related to this subject, reflecting its growing significance in society. Based on my analysis of past IELTS exams and current global discussions, I predict that this topic will continue to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams and how to approach it effectively.

Analyzing the Question

Some people think 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.

This question, while not directly mentioning mental health, provides an excellent opportunity to discuss The Importance Of Teaching Children About Mental Health as part of being good members of society. Let’s break down the key elements:

1. Two viewpoints are presented: schools’ responsibility vs. parents’ responsibility
2. You need to discuss both views
3. You must also provide your own opinion

Now, let’s look at two sample essays that address this question, incorporating the importance of mental health education.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s complex society, the question of who should be responsible for teaching children to be good citizens – schools or parents – is a topic of heated debate. While both parties play crucial roles in a child’s development, I believe that a collaborative approach, involving both schools and parents, is the most effective way to nurture well-rounded, mentally healthy members of society.

Those who advocate for schools taking the lead in this area argue that educational institutions have the resources and expertise to provide structured lessons on social responsibility and mental well-being. Schools can implement comprehensive programs that teach emotional intelligence, stress management, and empathy – all essential components of good citizenship and mental health. Moreover, the school environment offers children the opportunity to practice these skills in a diverse setting, preparing them for real-world interactions.

On the other hand, proponents of parental responsibility contend that the family unit is the primary source of a child’s values and behaviors. Parents have the unique advantage of knowing their children intimately and can tailor guidance to their individual needs, including addressing specific mental health concerns. They can model good citizenship through their actions and provide consistent reinforcement of positive behaviors at home, which is crucial for long-term internalization of these values.

In my opinion, the most effective approach is a partnership between schools and parents. Schools can provide the foundational knowledge and structured learning experiences, while parents can reinforce these lessons and provide personalized support. This collaborative model ensures that children receive consistent messages about being good citizens and maintaining mental health from all aspects of their lives.

For instance, schools could offer workshops on mental health awareness, which parents can then discuss and apply within the family context. This synergy between formal education and home life creates a robust support system for children as they navigate the challenges of growing up and becoming responsible members of society.

In conclusion, while both schools and parents have significant roles to play in shaping good citizens, a combined effort yields the best results. By working together, they can provide children with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to become mentally healthy, empathetic, and responsible members of society.

(Word count: 345)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The question of who should teach children to be good members of society is often debated. Some people think schools should do this, while others believe it’s the parents’ job. In my opinion, both schools and parents have important roles in this area.

Those who support schools teaching children about being good citizens say that schools have trained teachers and can give lessons about this topic. Schools can teach children about things like mental health, cooperation, and respecting others. They can also give children chances to practice these skills with their classmates.

On the other hand, people who think parents should do this job say that family is the most important influence on children. Parents can show their children how to be good citizens by their own actions. They can also teach their children about mental health and how to deal with problems in daily life. Parents know their children best and can give them personal advice.

I think that both schools and parents should work together to teach children about being good members of society. Schools can teach the basics and give children chances to practice with others. Parents can continue these lessons at home and help their children use what they learn in real life.

For example, if a school teaches about mental health and stress management, parents can talk about this at home and help their children use these skills when they feel stressed. This way, children get support from both school and home.

In conclusion, I believe that schools and parents should both take part in teaching children to be good citizens. When they work together, children can learn better and become responsible and mentally healthy members of society.

(Word count: 280)

Children learning about mental health in school

Key Points to Remember When Writing

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

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 effectively communicates the ideas.

3. Content: Both essays incorporate mental health into the discussion of good citizenship, showing an understanding of its importance in society.

4. Opinion: Both essays clearly state the writer’s opinion, favoring a collaborative approach between schools and parents.

5. Examples: The Band 8-9 essay provides more specific examples, enhancing the argument’s strength.

Important Vocabulary to Remember

1. Mental well-being (noun) /ˈmen.təl wel-ˈbiː.ɪŋ/: The state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy mentally.

2. Emotional intelligence (noun) /ɪˈməʊ.ʃən.əl ɪnˈtel.ɪ.dʒəns/: The ability to understand and manage your own emotions, and those of the people around you.

3. Empathy (noun) /ˈem.pə.θi/: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

4. Collaborative approach (noun phrase) /kəˈlæb.ər.ə.tɪv əˈprəʊtʃ/: A way of working where two or more people or organizations work together to achieve a goal.

5. Synergy (noun) /ˈsɪn.ə.dʒi/: The interaction of two or more agents or forces so that their combined effect is greater than the sum of their individual effects.

6. Reinforce (verb) /ˌriː.ɪnˈfɔːs/: To strengthen or support, especially with additional personnel or material.

7. Nurture (verb) /ˈnɜː.tʃər/: To care for and encourage the growth or development of.

8. Internalization (noun) /ɪnˌtɜː.nəl.aɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/: The process of accepting or absorbing an idea, attitude, or belief so that it becomes part of your nature.

In conclusion, the topic of teaching children about mental health as part of being good members of society is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The role of schools in promoting mental health awareness
• The impact of mental health education on society
• Balancing academic education with life skills and mental health education

Remember to always analyze the question carefully, plan your essay structure, and use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures appropriate to your target band score. Feel free to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!