Climate change education in schools has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms across test centers worldwide. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this topic has appeared approximately 3-4 times annually since 2018, particularly in countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK where environmental education is emphasized.
Analyzing the Task Question
Some people think that schools should teach children about the causes and prevention of climate change. Others believe this is not necessary. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on teaching climate change in schools
- Present their personal stance
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Provide a balanced discussion
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Climate change education in schools has become a contentious issue, with some advocating for its inclusion in curricula while others consider it unnecessary. While both perspectives have merit, I firmly believe that teaching students about climate change is crucial for preparing future generations to address environmental challenges.
Those who support climate change education argue that it equips young people with essential knowledge for their future. Children who understand the causes and effects of global warming are better positioned to make environmentally conscious decisions and contribute to climate solutions. For instance, schools in Singapore have successfully integrated climate science into their curriculum, resulting in students initiating local environmental projects and influencing their communities’ sustainable practices.
Opponents contend that the school curriculum is already overcrowded and that adding climate change education might overburden students. They suggest that children should focus on core subjects like mathematics and science, arguing that environmental education could be pursued through extracurricular activities or at home. Additionally, some believe that climate change is too complex for young minds to grasp effectively.
However, I support the integration of climate change education into school curricula for several compelling reasons. Firstly, environmental challenges will significantly impact today’s students throughout their lives, making this knowledge crucial for their future. Secondly, schools provide a structured environment where complex environmental concepts can be taught accurately and systematically. For example, in South Korea, where climate education is mandatory, students have demonstrated improved understanding of environmental issues and increased participation in conservation efforts.
In conclusion, while the debate continues, the benefits of teaching climate change in schools outweigh the drawbacks. It is essential for creating an environmentally conscious generation capable of addressing future ecological challenges.
Students performing environmental science experiment
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, many people discuss whether schools should teach about climate change or not. Some think it is important, while others disagree. I think schools should teach children about this topic.
People who support teaching climate change say it is good for children’s future. When students learn about this problem, they can understand why the Earth is getting warmer and what they can do to help. For example, in my country, students who learn about climate change often start recycling and saving energy at home.
On the other hand, some people think schools shouldn’t teach climate change. They say teachers already have many subjects to teach, and there is no time for more topics. Also, they think climate change is too difficult for young students to understand properly.
I believe schools must teach about climate change because it affects everyone’s life. When children learn about this in school, they can make better choices to protect the environment. For example, my younger brother learned about climate change in school, and now he always reminds our family to use less plastic and save water.
In conclusion, although some people disagree, I think teaching climate change in schools is very important. It helps students understand how to protect our planet for the future.
Key Vocabulary from Essays
- contentious (adj) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- curricula (n) /kəˈrɪkjʊlə/ – plural of curriculum; courses offered by an educational institution
- environmental consciousness (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈkɒnʃəsnəs/ – awareness of environmental issues
- extracurricular (adj) /ˌekstrəkəˈrɪkjʊlər/ – activities outside the regular curriculum
- conservation (n) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – preservation and protection of the environment
- ecological (adj) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl/ – relating to the environment and living things
- systematic (adj) /ˌsɪstəˈmætɪk/ – done according to a fixed plan or system
Practice Suggestions
Try writing your own essay on these related topics:
- Should environmental protection be taught as a separate subject in schools?
- Do you think children should learn about sustainable development in primary school?
- What role should schools play in promoting environmental awareness?
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners.
