Financial literacy education for young adults has become an increasingly important topic in recent years, reflecting the growing need for economic savvy in our complex financial world. This subject has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, and its relevance is likely to continue in future exams. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis to help you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2.
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
For this article, we’ll focus on a question that closely resembles those seen in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that financial literacy should be taught in schools as a mandatory subject. Others think it’s the responsibility of parents to teach their children about money management. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question touches on a critical debate in education and personal finance. It requires candidates to consider two perspectives on how young adults should acquire financial literacy skills and to form their own opinion on the matter.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response
Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that addresses the question effectively:
In today’s complex financial landscape, the importance of financial literacy cannot be overstated. While some argue that schools should take the lead in teaching this crucial skill, others believe it falls under parental responsibility. In my opinion, a collaborative approach involving both educational institutions and parents is the most effective way to ensure young adults are financially savvy.
Those who advocate for financial literacy as a mandatory school subject argue that it ensures all students receive standardized, comprehensive education on money management. Schools have the resources and expertise to deliver structured lessons on budgeting, investing, and understanding financial products. Moreover, integrating financial literacy into the curriculum can help level the playing field for students whose parents may not be financially savvy themselves.
On the other hand, proponents of parental responsibility in financial education emphasize the personalized nature of money management. Parents can tailor lessons to their family’s specific financial situation and values. They can provide real-world examples and hands-on experiences, such as involving children in household budgeting or opening savings accounts. This approach allows for continuous, contextual learning that extends beyond the classroom.
In my view, the most effective approach is a combination of both school-based and parental education. Schools can provide the foundational knowledge and skills, ensuring all students have access to essential financial information. Parents can then reinforce these lessons at home, applying them to real-life situations and instilling family-specific financial values. This collaborative method ensures that young adults receive comprehensive financial education that is both standardized and personalized.
To conclude, while both school-based programs and parental guidance have their merits in teaching financial literacy, a synergistic approach that combines the strengths of both is ideal. By leveraging the structured learning environment of schools and the personalized, real-world context provided by parents, we can better equip young adults with the financial skills they need to thrive in today’s economy.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
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Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion.
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Coherent arguments: Each perspective is thoroughly explained with supporting points.
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Advanced vocabulary: The essay uses sophisticated vocabulary appropriately, such as “overstated,” “standardized,” “comprehensive,” and “synergistic.”
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Varied sentence structures: The writer employs a mix of simple and complex sentences, enhancing the essay’s readability and sophistication.
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Clear position: The writer’s opinion is clearly stated and consistently supported throughout the essay.
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Relevant examples: The essay provides specific examples to illustrate points, such as “involving children in household budgeting.”
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Cohesive devices: Transitional phrases like “On the other hand” and “To conclude” are used effectively to link ideas.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response
Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
Nowadays, many people discuss about whether financial literacy should be taught in schools or by parents. Both sides have their own reasons, and I will explain them in this essay.
Some people think schools should teach financial literacy. They say that schools have professional teachers who can explain money matters clearly. Also, if it’s a school subject, all students will learn it, even if their parents don’t know much about finance. This is good because everyone needs to know how to manage money in their life.
However, other people believe parents should teach their children about money. They think parents know their children’s needs better and can give real examples from family life. For instance, parents can show kids how to save money or how to make a budget for shopping. This practical experience is very useful for children.
In my opinion, both schools and parents should teach financial literacy. Schools can give the basic knowledge, and parents can show how to use this knowledge in real life. This way, young people can learn about money management from different angles.
To sum up, financial literacy is very important for young adults. While schools and parents have different strengths in teaching this subject, I believe a combination of both is the best way to help young people understand finance.
(Word count: 218)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates several characteristics that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
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Adequate structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs addressing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion.
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Relevant ideas: The main points are relevant to the question, though they could be developed further.
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Basic vocabulary: The vocabulary is generally appropriate but lacks the sophistication of higher band scores.
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Simple sentence structures: The essay primarily uses simple sentence structures, with some attempts at more complex constructions.
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Clear position: The writer’s opinion is stated, though it could be more fully developed.
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Basic examples: Some examples are provided, but they could be more detailed or specific.
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Limited cohesive devices: The essay uses some cohesive devices, but they are relatively basic and could be more varied.
Key Vocabulary for Financial Literacy Essays
Here are some important vocabulary items related to financial literacy, along with their definitions and word types:
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Financial literacy (noun, /faɪˈnænʃəl ˈlɪtərəsi/): The ability to understand and effectively use various financial skills.
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Budgeting (noun, /ˈbʌdʒɪtɪŋ/): The process of creating a plan to spend your money.
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Invest (verb, /ɪnˈvest/): To put money into financial schemes, shares, property, or a commercial venture with the expectation of achieving a profit.
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Fiscal responsibility (noun, /ˈfɪskəl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/): The obligation to handle financial matters prudently.
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Economic savvy (noun, /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈsævi/): Practical knowledge and understanding of economic matters.
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Personal finance (noun, /ˈpɜːsənl faɪˈnæns/): The management of an individual’s or family’s financial situation.
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Financial planning (noun, /faɪˈnænʃəl ˈplænɪŋ/): The process of meeting one’s life goals through proper management of finances.
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Money management (noun, /ˈmʌni ˈmænɪdʒmənt/): The process of budgeting, saving, investing, spending, or otherwise overseeing the capital usage of an individual or group.
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Credit score (noun, /ˈkredɪt skɔː/): A numerical expression based on a statistical analysis of a person’s credit files, representing their creditworthiness.
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Financial independence (noun, /faɪˈnænʃəl ˌɪndɪˈpendəns/): The state of having sufficient personal wealth to live without having to work actively for basic necessities.
Conclusion
Financial literacy education for young adults is a crucial topic that is likely to continue appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. By understanding the key issues and practicing with sample essays like those provided, you can improve your ability to tackle this subject effectively in your IELTS exam.
For further practice, consider writing your own essay on this topic or variations such as:
- The role of technology in promoting financial literacy among young adults
- The impact of financial literacy on national economic stability
- Comparing financial literacy education in developed and developing countries
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice and reflection. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active practice will help you refine your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.
To further enhance your understanding of financial literacy and its importance in education, you might want to explore our article on the importance of financial literacy in schools. Additionally, for insights on how to effectively promote financial literacy among young people, check out our guide on how to promote financial literacy among young people.