IELTS Writing Task 2: Mastering Essays on Supporting Gifted Children in the Classroom (Band 8-9 Sample Included)

In recent years, the topic of supporting gifted children in the classroom has gained significant attention in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This subject has appeared frequently in past tests and is likely to continue being a popular theme in future exams. Understanding how to approach this topic effectively can greatly improve your chances of achieving a high band score. Let’s explore a relevant question and analyze how to craft a compelling essay.

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that schools should identify gifted children and provide them with special programs. Others believe that all children should be treated equally. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question presents a common debate in education: whether gifted children should receive specialized attention or if all students should be treated equally. Let’s break down the key components:

1. View 1: Schools should identify and provide special programs for gifted children.
2. View 2: All children should be treated equally in schools.
3. Task: Discuss both views and provide your own opinion.

Band 8-9 Sample Essay

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay addressing the given question:

In the realm of education, there is an ongoing debate about whether gifted children should receive specialized programs or if all students should be treated equally. While both perspectives have merit, I believe a balanced approach that caters to individual needs while maintaining overall equality is the most effective solution.

Those who advocate for special programs for gifted children argue that these students have unique abilities that require nurturing to reach their full potential. By providing advanced curricula and challenging projects, schools can prevent gifted students from becoming bored or disengaged. This approach not only benefits the individual students but also society as a whole, as these children may go on to make significant contributions in various fields. For example, many renowned scientists and innovators were identified as gifted at a young age and received specialized education that helped shape their extraordinary abilities.

On the other hand, proponents of equal treatment for all students emphasize the importance of inclusivity and fairness in education. They argue that singling out certain children as “gifted” can lead to elitism and negatively impact the self-esteem of other students. Moreover, this perspective highlights that all children have unique strengths and talents that deserve recognition and development. By treating everyone equally, schools can foster a more collaborative and supportive learning environment where students learn to appreciate diverse abilities and work together effectively.

In my opinion, the ideal approach lies in striking a balance between these two viewpoints. Schools should strive to create an inclusive environment where all students receive equal opportunities and respect. However, this doesn’t preclude offering differentiated instruction that caters to individual needs, including those of gifted children. For instance, implementing flexible learning programs that allow students to progress at their own pace in different subjects can benefit both gifted and non-gifted children alike. This approach ensures that all students are challenged appropriately without creating a sense of separation or inequality.

In conclusion, while the debate between specialized programs for gifted children and equal treatment for all students continues, I believe the most effective educational approach combines elements of both perspectives. By fostering an inclusive environment that also recognizes and nurtures individual talents, schools can provide the best possible education for all students, regardless of their abilities.

(Word count: 368)

Gifted children in an inclusive classroom

Band 6-7 Sample Essay

Here’s a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:

In today’s education system, there is a debate about how to handle gifted children in schools. Some people think these special students should get extra programs, while others believe all kids should be treated the same. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

Firstly, those who support special programs for gifted children have some good points. Gifted students are very smart and learn quickly, so they might get bored in regular classes. If they get special lessons, they can learn more and use their talents better. This could help them become great scientists or leaders in the future, which is good for society. For example, many famous inventors were gifted children who got extra help in school.

On the other hand, people who want equal treatment for all students also have valid arguments. They think it’s not fair to give some kids special treatment because it might make other students feel bad about themselves. Also, every child has some special skills, not just the gifted ones. If all students are treated the same, they can learn to work together better and respect each other’s differences.

In my opinion, I think schools should try to do both things. They should give all students equal opportunities and respect, but also help gifted children develop their special skills. One way to do this is to have different levels of work in the same classroom. This way, gifted students can do harder work, but all students are still learning together. This approach can help everyone learn at their own pace without making some students feel left out.

To conclude, while there are good arguments for both special programs and equal treatment, I believe a mix of both is best. Schools should create a fair environment for all students but also find ways to challenge gifted children. This can help all students learn well and feel valued in school.

(Word count: 309)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

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

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions, such as “realm of education,” “ongoing debate,” and “foster a more collaborative and supportive learning environment.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Grammar: The higher-scoring essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentence structures and more accurate use of grammar. The Band 6-7 essay has generally correct grammar but uses simpler structures.

4. Development of Ideas: The Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed explanations and specific examples to support its points. The Band 6-7 essay makes valid points but with less depth and fewer concrete examples.

5. Cohesion and Coherence: Both essays are well-organized, but the Band 8-9 essay shows more sophisticated use of cohesive devices and smoother transitions between ideas.

Vocabulary to Remember

1. Gifted (adjective) /ˈɡɪf.tɪd/ – having exceptional talent or natural ability
2. Nurture (verb) /ˈnɜː.tʃər/ – to help develop or grow
3. Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪk.jə.ləm/ – the subjects comprising a course of study in a school
4. Elitism (noun) /ɪˈliː.tɪ.zəm/ – the belief that certain people or things are superior to others
5. Inclusivity (noun) /ˌɪn.kluːˈsɪv.ə.ti/ – the practice of including people who might otherwise be marginalized
6. Differentiated instruction (noun phrase) – tailoring teaching approaches to different student needs
7. Foster (verb) /ˈfɒs.tər/ – to encourage the development of something
8. Collaborative (adjective) /kəˈlæb.ər.ə.tɪv/ – involving two or more people working together
9. Proponent (noun) /prəˈpəʊ.nənt/ – a person who advocates for a theory or course of action
10. Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuː.ɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle differences or distinctions

Conclusion

Mastering essays on supporting gifted children in the classroom requires a deep understanding of the topic and the ability to present balanced arguments. By studying these sample essays and key points, you can improve your writing skills and aim for a higher band score in your IELTS Writing Task 2.

For further practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related themes such as inclusive education or classroom diversity. You can also explore other potential questions like:

1. Do you think gifted children should be educated separately from other students? Why or why not?
2. How can schools balance the needs of gifted students with those of students who struggle academically?
3. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of identifying children as “gifted” at a young age?

Remember to post your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam.