IELTS Writing Task 2: How to Support Mental Health in Public Schools – Sample Essays and Analysis

Mental health support in public schools has become an increasingly important topic in recent years. This article will provide sample essays and analysis for IELTS Writing Task 2 on this subject, which has appeared in various forms in past exams and is likely to continue being a relevant issue for future tests.

Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question related to mental health support in public schools:

Some people believe that schools should take responsibility for teaching students about mental health and wellbeing. Others think that this is not the role of schools and should be left to parents and healthcare professionals. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analysis of the Question

This question presents two contrasting views on the role of schools in mental health education:

1. Schools should be responsible for teaching about mental health and wellbeing.
2. Mental health education should be left to parents and healthcare professionals.

The task requires you to discuss both perspectives and provide your own opinion. This is a classic example of an opinion essay where you need to consider multiple viewpoints before presenting your stance.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Mental health has become a pressing concern in modern society, and there is an ongoing debate about whether schools should play a role in educating students on this crucial topic. While some argue that this responsibility lies solely with parents and healthcare professionals, I believe that schools have a vital part to play in promoting mental wellbeing among young people.

Those who oppose school involvement in mental health education often contend that it is beyond the scope of educational institutions. They argue that teachers are not trained mental health professionals and that the primary focus of schools should be academic subjects. Furthermore, they believe that parents are better positioned to address their children’s emotional needs and that healthcare experts should be consulted for specific mental health concerns.

However, I strongly support the view that schools should take an active role in teaching about mental health and wellbeing. Firstly, schools are where children spend a significant portion of their time and encounter various stressors, making them ideal environments for learning about mental health. Secondly, many parents may lack the knowledge or resources to adequately address mental health issues, whereas schools can provide consistent, evidence-based information to all students. Lastly, by integrating mental health education into the curriculum, schools can help destigmatize mental health problems and encourage early intervention.

Moreover, school-based mental health programs can be highly effective when implemented correctly. For example, teaching stress management techniques, promoting emotional intelligence, and fostering a supportive school culture can significantly impact students’ overall wellbeing. These skills are not only crucial for mental health but also contribute to academic success and future career prospects.

In conclusion, while parents and healthcare professionals undoubtedly play important roles in supporting mental health, I believe that schools have a unique opportunity and responsibility to educate students on this vital topic. By doing so, we can create a more mentally healthy and resilient generation, better equipped to face the challenges of modern life.

Word count: 309

Mental health education in school

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Mental health is a big problem in today’s world, and people are arguing about whether schools should teach students about it. Some think schools should do this, while others say it’s not their job. I will talk about both sides and give my opinion.

People who don’t want schools to teach about mental health say that it’s not what schools are for. They think schools should focus on subjects like math and science. They also say that teachers aren’t trained to deal with mental health issues. These people believe that parents should talk to their kids about feelings and that doctors should help with serious problems.

On the other hand, some people think schools should teach about mental health. They say that kids spend a lot of time at school and face stress there, so it’s a good place to learn about mental health. Also, not all parents know enough about mental health to help their kids. Schools can give all students the same information about staying mentally healthy.

I agree that schools should teach about mental health. I think it’s important because many young people have mental health problems, and learning about it early can help. Schools can teach things like how to deal with stress and how to understand feelings. This can help students do better in school and be happier in life.

In conclusion, while parents and doctors are important for mental health, I believe schools should also teach about it. This can help create a healthier and happier society in the future.

Word count: 266

Key Points to Note When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing different viewpoints, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph development and transitions.

2. Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Argument Development: The higher band essay provides more detailed explanations and examples to support its points, while the lower band essay offers more basic arguments.

4. Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates better use of linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly.

5. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides a more nuanced discussion and clearer personal opinion.

Vocabulary to Remember

1. Mental wellbeing (noun) /ˌmentl ˈwelbiːɪŋ/ – the state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy mentally
2. Destigmatize (verb) /diːˈstɪɡmətaɪz/ – to remove the negative associations or shame attached to something
3. Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation to improve it or prevent it from getting worse
4. Resilient (adjective) /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions
5. Stressors (noun) /ˈstresəz/ – factors or events that cause stress
6. Emotional intelligence (noun) /ɪˈməʊʃənl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions
7. Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – the subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college

Conclusion

Supporting mental health in public schools is a critical topic that is likely to appear in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays on related subjects such as:

• The role of technology in promoting mental health awareness
• The impact of social media on students’ mental wellbeing
• Balancing academic pressure and mental health in schools
• The importance of physical education in supporting mental health

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further discussion.