Environmental conservation is a crucial topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on recent trends and the increasing global focus on environmental issues, it’s highly likely that questions related to teaching children about environmental conservation will continue to feature prominently in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this important topic.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that teaching children about environmental conservation should be the responsibility of schools, while others think it should be taught at home. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a common IELTS Writing Task 2 format: discussing two contrasting views and providing your own opinion. The topic focuses on the responsibility of teaching environmental conservation to children, comparing the roles of schools and homes in this educational process.
Model Essay for Band 8-9
Environmental education is crucial for the future of our planet, and there is ongoing debate about whether this responsibility lies primarily with schools or parents. While both environments play significant roles, I believe that a collaborative approach between schools and homes is the most effective way to instill environmental awareness in children.
On one hand, schools have the advantage of structured curricula and trained educators who can provide comprehensive and scientifically accurate information about environmental issues. They can integrate environmental topics into various subjects, from science to social studies, offering a holistic understanding of conservation. Moreover, schools can organize practical activities such as recycling programs or tree-planting initiatives, which give children hands-on experience in environmental protection.
On the other hand, parents and the home environment play a crucial role in reinforcing and practicing environmental values. Children often learn best by example, and parents who actively demonstrate eco-friendly behaviors, such as reducing waste or conserving energy, can have a profound impact on their children’s attitudes towards the environment. The home also provides opportunities for continuous, everyday learning about conservation through simple actions like sorting recyclables or discussing nature during family outings.
In my opinion, the most effective approach is a partnership between schools and homes. Schools can provide the knowledge and structured learning experiences, while parents can reinforce these lessons through daily practice and personal example. This collaborative effort ensures that children receive consistent messages about environmental conservation from both their educational and home environments, leading to a deeper understanding and more ingrained habits of environmental responsibility.
In conclusion, while both schools and homes have unique strengths in teaching environmental conservation to children, a combined effort is likely to yield the best results. By working together, educators and parents can create a generation of environmentally conscious individuals who are well-equipped to address the ecological challenges of the future.
(Word count: 309)
Model Essay for Band 6-7
There is a debate about who should be responsible for teaching children about environmental conservation. Some people think schools should do this, while others believe it should be taught at home. I think both schools and parents have important roles in this education.
Schools are good places to teach about the environment because they have teachers who know a lot about this subject. They can teach children about things like climate change, pollution, and how to protect nature. Schools can also organize activities like recycling programs or nature trips, which help children learn by doing.
However, parents also have a big role in teaching their children about the environment. At home, children can learn everyday habits that are good for the environment, like turning off lights to save energy or using less water. Parents can set a good example by doing these things themselves. Also, families can spend time in nature together, which helps children appreciate the environment more.
In my opinion, the best way is for both schools and parents to teach children about environmental conservation. Schools can provide the knowledge and organized learning, while parents can show how to use this knowledge in daily life. This way, children learn about the environment in different ways and understand its importance better.
To conclude, I believe that teaching children about environmental conservation should be a shared responsibility between schools and parents. This combined effort will help children become more aware of environmental issues and know how to protect nature in their daily lives.
(Word count: 252)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Essay Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and cohesion.
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Language Use:
- Band 8-9: Uses more advanced vocabulary (e.g., “holistic understanding”, “profound impact”) and complex sentence structures.
- Band 6-7: Uses simpler language and sentence structures, but still maintains clarity.
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Idea Development:
- Band 8-9: Provides more detailed explanations and examples to support each point.
- Band 6-7: Offers basic explanations with some examples, but less elaboration.
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Opinion Expression: Both essays clearly state the writer’s opinion, but the Band 8-9 essay integrates it more smoothly into the discussion.
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Conclusion: The Band 8-9 essay offers a more nuanced conclusion that ties back to the main discussion points.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
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Environmental conservation (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – The protection and preservation of the natural environment.
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Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – Not harmful to the environment.
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Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time.
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
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Recycling (noun) /riːˈsaɪklɪŋ/ – The process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects.
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Climate change (noun) /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/ – Long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns.
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Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – A community of living organisms in conjunction with the nonliving components of their environment.
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Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ – The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organization, or community.
Conclusion
The topic of teaching children about environmental conservation is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as the role of technology in environmental education, the impact of environmental awareness on career choices, or the effectiveness of different environmental education methods.
To further improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on this topic or a related one. Consider questions like “Do you think environmental education should be mandatory in all schools?” or “How can governments encourage young people to be more environmentally conscious?” Share your essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners.
Remember, practice is key to improving your IELTS Writing skills. By familiarizing yourself with various environmental topics and honing your essay writing techniques, you’ll be well-prepared for the IELTS Writing Task 2 exam.