Dyslexia is a learning disorder that affects a significant number of children worldwide. As such, the topic of supporting children with dyslexia in school environments has become increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to approach this subject, including sample essays for different band scores and crucial tips to enhance your writing skills.
Based on recent IELTS exam trends, questions related to supporting children with learning disabilities, particularly dyslexia, have appeared with moderate frequency. We can expect this topic to maintain its relevance in future tests due to the growing awareness of inclusive education practices. Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this subject:
Some people think that schools should identify children’s talents and train them to excel in those areas. Others believe that every child should receive a wide general education. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question indirectly relates to supporting children with dyslexia by addressing the broader topic of tailored education versus general education. When discussing this topic, you can incorporate ideas about supporting students with learning difficulties like dyslexia. The task requires you to:
- Discuss the view that schools should identify and nurture specific talents
- Discuss the view that all children should receive a broad general education
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question, targeting different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In the realm of education, there is an ongoing debate about whether schools should focus on identifying and nurturing individual talents or provide a comprehensive general education to all students. This essay will examine both perspectives and argue that a balanced approach, combining elements of both methods, is the most beneficial for students, including those with learning difficulties such as dyslexia.
Proponents of talent-focused education argue that by identifying and cultivating a child’s specific abilities, schools can help students excel in their areas of strength. This approach can be particularly beneficial for children with dyslexia, who may struggle with traditional academic subjects but possess exceptional skills in areas like art, music, or problem-solving. By focusing on these strengths, schools can boost students’ confidence and motivation, potentially leading to improved overall academic performance. Moreover, this targeted approach can prepare students for successful careers in fields where they have natural aptitudes.
On the other hand, advocates for a broad general education contend that exposing children to a wide range of subjects is crucial for their overall development. A comprehensive curriculum ensures that students acquire a diverse set of skills and knowledge, which is essential in our rapidly changing world. This approach can be particularly valuable for students with dyslexia, as it allows them to explore various subjects and potentially discover hidden talents or interests. Additionally, a well-rounded education fosters critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity – skills that are invaluable in any career path.
In my opinion, the ideal educational approach should incorporate elements of both perspectives. Schools should strive to provide a strong foundation in core subjects while also offering opportunities for students to explore and develop their individual talents. For children with dyslexia, this balanced approach could involve specialized support in areas of difficulty, such as reading and writing, while simultaneously encouraging them to pursue their strengths in other subjects or extracurricular activities. This method not only addresses the diverse needs of all students but also prepares them for the complexities of the modern world.
In conclusion, while both talent-focused and general education approaches have their merits, a combined strategy that balances the two is most likely to benefit all students, including those with learning difficulties. By providing a broad educational base while also nurturing individual talents, schools can equip students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their future endeavors.
(Word count: 377)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
There is a debate about whether schools should focus on developing children’s specific talents or provide a general education for all students. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Some people believe that schools should identify and develop children’s talents. This can be good for students because it helps them become very good at something they enjoy. For example, if a child is good at art, the school can give them more art classes and help them improve their skills. This can make students feel more confident and happy at school. It can also help them find good jobs in the future that match their talents.
On the other hand, other people think that all children should get a wide general education. This means learning many different subjects like math, science, literature, and history. This approach can help students learn many different skills and gain knowledge about many topics. It can also help them discover new interests they didn’t know about before. A general education can prepare students for different types of jobs and help them in their daily lives.
In my opinion, I think schools should try to do both. They should provide a general education for all students but also help develop their special talents. This way, students can learn important basic skills and knowledge, but also have the chance to excel in areas they are good at. For students with learning difficulties like dyslexia, this approach can be especially helpful. They can get extra support in subjects they find hard, like reading, but also have chances to show their strengths in other areas.
In conclusion, while both approaches have advantages, I believe a mix of general education and talent development is best for all students, including those with learning difficulties. This balanced approach can help prepare students for their future lives and careers.
(Word count: 309)
Key Writing Tips for This Topic
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Vocabulary: Use a range of vocabulary related to education and learning difficulties. For higher band scores, incorporate more sophisticated terms and phrases.
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Grammar: Employ a variety of sentence structures and tenses. For band 8-9, use complex sentences and advanced grammatical structures accurately.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ensure your essay flows logically with clear paragraphs and appropriate linking words.
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Task Response: Address all parts of the question and provide a clear opinion supported by relevant examples.
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Specific to Dyslexia: When discussing support for children with dyslexia, mention specialized teaching methods, assistive technologies, and the importance of building on strengths while addressing challenges.
Essential Vocabulary for This Topic
- Dyslexia (noun) /dɪsˈleksiə/ – A learning disorder characterized by difficulty reading
- Inclusive education (noun phrase) /ɪnˈkluːsɪv ˌedʒʊˈkeɪʃən/ – Educational approach that includes all students regardless of abilities
- Tailored (adjective) /ˈteɪləd/ – Made or adapted for a particular purpose or person
- Aptitude (noun) /ˈæptɪtjuːd/ – Natural ability or skill
- Nurture (verb) /ˈnɜːtʃə(r)/ – To encourage or help develop
- Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something
- Adaptability (noun) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions
- Specialized (adjective) /ˈspeʃəlaɪzd/ – Designed or developed for a particular purpose, occupation, or field of study
Supporting children with dyslexia in school
In conclusion, writing about supporting children with dyslexia in school for IELTS Task 2 requires a good understanding of both educational approaches and the specific needs of students with learning difficulties. By using the sample essays and tips provided, you can develop a strong, well-structured response to similar questions. Remember to practice writing essays on this topic and related subjects to improve your skills. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and further improvement.
