Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: How to Develop Strong Communication Skills in Children (Sample Essays for Band 6-7 and 8-9)

Communication skills are fundamental for children’s personal and academic growth. This topic has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the years. Based on past trends and the increasing emphasis on soft skills in education, we can expect similar questions to continue appearing in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a relevant question that has been featured in recent IELTS tests:

Some people think that schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Others believe that school should only focus on teaching academic subjects. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question directly relates to developing communication skills in children, as being a good member of society inherently involves effective communication. The task requires discussing two contrasting viewpoints:

1. Schools should teach children how to be good members of society (which includes communication skills).
2. Schools should focus solely on academic subjects.

You must present both perspectives and then provide your own opinion on the matter.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Children communicating in classroom

In the ongoing debate about the role of education, some argue that schools should prioritize teaching children how to be valuable members of society, while others contend that the focus should remain exclusively on academic subjects. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective on this crucial issue.

Those who advocate for schools to teach societal values and skills argue that education should prepare children for life beyond academics. They believe that by instructing students in social skills, ethics, and civic responsibility, schools can cultivate well-rounded individuals capable of contributing positively to their communities. This approach would include developing strong communication skills, which are essential for success in both personal and professional spheres. Moreover, proponents argue that a society-focused curriculum can address issues such as bullying, discrimination, and social inequality from an early age.

On the other hand, supporters of a purely academic focus contend that schools have limited time and resources, which should be dedicated to core subjects such as mathematics, science, and language arts. They argue that social skills and values are best learned at home or through extracurricular activities. This perspective emphasizes the importance of academic excellence in an increasingly competitive global economy, where strong subject knowledge is crucial for future career prospects.

In my opinion, while academic subjects are undoubtedly important, schools should strive for a balanced approach that incorporates both academic and social education. The development of communication skills and social awareness is just as critical as academic knowledge in preparing children for adulthood. By integrating lessons on effective communication, empathy, and social responsibility into the curriculum, schools can produce not only academically proficient students but also well-adjusted, socially competent individuals.

Furthermore, I believe that academic subjects and social skills are not mutually exclusive. Many academic disciplines, such as literature and history, provide excellent opportunities to discuss social issues and develop critical thinking skills. Group projects and class discussions can simultaneously enhance subject knowledge and communication abilities. This integrated approach would better prepare students for the multifaceted challenges they will face in their future personal and professional lives.

In conclusion, while the importance of academic subjects cannot be understated, I firmly believe that schools have a responsibility to educate children on being good members of society, including developing strong communication skills. By adopting a holistic approach to education, schools can produce well-rounded individuals equipped to thrive in both their careers and their communities.

(Word count: 395)

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Some people believe schools should teach children how to be good members of society, while others think schools should only focus on academic subjects. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On one hand, people who support teaching social skills in school say it’s important for children’s future. They think schools should teach things like how to communicate well, be kind to others, and help the community. This can help children become better people and make society better. For example, if children learn how to talk to others nicely, they might have fewer problems with bullying.

On the other hand, some people think schools should only teach subjects like math, science, and languages. They believe these subjects are more important for getting good jobs in the future. They also think that parents should teach social skills at home, not schools. They worry that if schools spend time on social skills, children might not learn enough academic subjects.

In my opinion, I think schools should teach both academic subjects and social skills. Learning how to be a good person is just as important as learning math or science. Schools can teach both at the same time. For example, when children work together on a science project, they can learn about science and also how to work well with others.

I also think that learning social skills can help children do better in their studies. If children know how to communicate well, they can ask questions better and understand their lessons more easily. This can help them get better grades in all subjects.

In conclusion, while academic subjects are very important, I believe schools should also teach children how to be good members of society. This will help children be successful in both their studies and their lives after school.

(Word count: 298)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. For Band 8-9:

   • Use sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures.
   • Provide in-depth analysis and well-developed arguments.
   • Ensure a cohesive flow of ideas throughout the essay.
   • Use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas seamlessly.

2. For Band 6-7:

   • Use a mix of simple and complex sentences.
   • Provide clear arguments with some supporting details.
   • Maintain a logical structure, but transitions may be less smooth.
   • Use basic linking words to connect ideas.

3. Grammar focus:

   • Band 8-9: Use a variety of complex structures accurately (e.g., “While the importance of academic subjects cannot be understated, I firmly believe that…”)
   • Band 6-7: Use a mix of simple and complex structures with some errors that do not impede understanding (e.g., “I think schools should teach both academic subjects and social skills.”)

4. Vocabulary usage:

   • Band 8-9: Use a wide range of vocabulary precisely and effectively (e.g., “cultivate well-rounded individuals,” “multifaceted challenges”)
   • Band 6-7: Use adequate vocabulary with some attempt at less common words (e.g., “communicate well,” “successful in both their studies and their lives”)

Important Vocabulary to Remember

1. Holistic (adjective) /həʊˈlɪstɪk/: Considering the whole rather than just parts
2. Integrated (adjective) /ˈɪntɪɡreɪtɪd/: Combining different elements into a unified whole
3. Civic responsibility (noun phrase) /ˈsɪvɪk rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/: The duty of citizens to their community
4. Well-rounded (adjective) /ˌwel ˈraʊndɪd/: Having a personality that is fully developed in all aspects
5. Empathy (noun) /ˈempəθi/: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others
6. Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/: Having many different aspects or features
7. Cultivate (verb) /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/: To develop or improve by education or training
8. Proficient (adjective) /prəˈfɪʃnt/: Competent or skilled in doing something
9. Extracurricular (adjective) /ˌekstrəkəˈrɪkjələ(r)/: Activities pursued in addition to the normal course of study
10. Competent (adjective) /ˈkɒmpɪtənt/: Having the necessary ability or knowledge to do something successfully

In conclusion, developing strong communication skills in children is a crucial aspect of education that goes hand in hand with academic learning. By integrating communication skills into the curriculum, schools can better prepare students for their future roles in society. As you practice writing essays on this topic, remember to balance your arguments, use appropriate language for your target band score, and incorporate relevant vocabulary.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as how to create inclusive classrooms for all children or how to support children with speech and language delays. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!