Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Teaching Children About Informed Decision-Making

In recent years, the topic of teaching children about making informed decisions has gained significant importance in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject not only reflects current societal concerns but also tests candidates’ ability to articulate complex ideas about child development and education. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and trends, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this challenging topic.

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that schools should teach children how to make informed decisions. Others believe that this is the responsibility of parents. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question presents a common IELTS Writing Task 2 format: discussing two contrasting views and providing a personal opinion. The topic focuses on the debate over who should be responsible for teaching children decision-making skills – schools or parents. This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that schools should teach decision-making skills
2. Explain the perspective that parents should be responsible for this task
3. Provide your own opinion on the matter

Let’s examine two sample essays addressing this question, one aiming for a Band 8-9 score and another for a Band 6-7 score.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

The question of who should bear the responsibility for teaching children how to make informed decisions – schools or parents – is a matter of considerable debate. While both institutions play crucial roles in a child’s development, I believe that a collaborative approach involving both schools and parents is the most effective strategy.

Those who advocate for schools taking the lead in teaching decision-making skills argue that educational institutions are better equipped with structured curricula and trained professionals. Schools can provide a systematic approach to decision-making, incorporating it into various subjects and real-life scenarios. For instance, they can use case studies in history classes to analyze past decisions and their consequences, or employ problem-solving exercises in mathematics to enhance logical thinking. Moreover, schools offer a diverse environment where children can practice decision-making among peers, preparing them for real-world situations.

On the other hand, proponents of parental responsibility emphasize the unique position parents hold in a child’s life. Parents have the advantage of knowing their child intimately and can tailor their guidance to the child’s individual needs and personality. They can provide continuous, real-time coaching on decision-making in everyday situations, from choosing healthy foods to managing time and resources. Furthermore, parents serve as primary role models, demonstrating decision-making processes through their own actions and choices.

In my opinion, the most effective approach is a synergistic effort between schools and parents. Schools can provide the theoretical framework and structured learning environment for decision-making skills, while parents can reinforce these lessons at home and apply them to personal situations. This collaboration ensures that children receive consistent guidance and have ample opportunities to practice informed decision-making in various contexts.

To implement this effectively, schools could organize workshops for parents, sharing the decision-making techniques taught in class and suggesting ways to incorporate these skills into home life. Conversely, parents could provide feedback to schools about their child’s decision-making progress and challenges faced at home, allowing for a more personalized educational approach.

In conclusion, while both schools and parents have unique strengths in teaching children about informed decision-making, a collaborative approach harnessing the benefits of both would be most beneficial. This partnership would provide children with a comprehensive foundation in decision-making skills, better preparing them for the complexities of adult life.

(Word count: 374)

Teaching children informed decision-making

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The question of who should teach children how to make informed decisions is important. Some people think schools should do this, while others believe it’s the parents’ job. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Those who think schools should teach decision-making skills have good reasons. Schools have trained teachers who know how to teach different subjects. They can include decision-making lessons in their classes. For example, in science class, students can learn how to make decisions about experiments. Schools also have many students, so children can practice making decisions with their friends.

On the other hand, some people believe parents should teach their children how to make decisions. Parents know their children very well and can help them with personal problems. They can teach their children how to make decisions at home, like choosing what to eat or how to spend their time. Parents can also show their children how to make good decisions by being good examples.

In my opinion, both schools and parents should work together to teach children about making informed decisions. Schools can teach the basic ideas and give children chances to practice with their classmates. Parents can then help their children use these skills at home and in their daily lives. This way, children learn about decision-making in different situations.

For this to work well, schools and parents need to talk to each other. Schools can tell parents what they are teaching about decision-making, and parents can tell schools how their children are doing at home. This teamwork will help children learn how to make good decisions in all parts of their lives.

In conclusion, I believe that teaching children how to make informed decisions should be done by both schools and parents working together. This will give children the best chance to learn this important skill for their future.

(Word count: 309)

Key Writing Tips

When addressing this topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, consider the following tips:

1. Structure: Ensure a clear introduction, separate paragraphs for each viewpoint, and a conclusion with your opinion.

2. Vocabulary: Use a range of vocabulary related to education and decision-making. For Band 8-9, incorporate more sophisticated terms and phrases.

3. Grammar: Employ a variety of sentence structures. For higher bands, use complex sentences and advanced grammatical structures accurately.

4. Cohesion: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. Higher band scores require more sophisticated cohesive devices.

5. Examples: Provide specific, relevant examples to support your points. Band 8-9 essays should have more detailed and nuanced examples.

6. Task Response: Fully address all parts of the question. Higher band scores require a more balanced and in-depth discussion of both viewpoints.

Vocabulary to Remember

1. Informed decision (noun) /ɪnˈfɔːmd dɪˈsɪʒən/ – A choice made with access to all relevant information
2. Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjʊləm/ – The subjects comprising a course of study in a school
3. Collaborative approach (noun phrase) /kəˈlæbərətɪv əˈprəʊtʃ/ – A method involving multiple parties working together
4. Synergistic (adjective) /ˌsɪnəˈdʒɪstɪk/ – Producing a combined effect greater than the sum of separate effects
5. Theoretical framework (noun phrase) /θɪəˈretɪkl ˈfreɪmwɜːk/ – A structure of concepts and theories that supports a research study
6. To reinforce (verb) /ˌriːɪnˈfɔːs/ – To strengthen or support
7. Personalized (adjective) /ˈpɜːsənəlaɪzd/ – Designed or produced to meet someone’s individual requirements
8. To harness (verb) /ˈhɑːnɪs/ – To control and use (something, especially a force of nature) to produce power or achieve an effect

In conclusion, the topic of teaching children about making informed decisions is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on this theme, considering various perspectives and using appropriate vocabulary and structures. You can also explore related topics such as how to teach children about environmental sustainability or how to promote healthy eating habits in children, which may involve similar decision-making skills.

We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active approach to learning will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.