The topic of teaching children about diversity has gained significant importance in recent years, reflecting the growing emphasis on inclusivity and cultural awareness in education. This theme has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, and its relevance is likely to increase in future exams. Let’s explore a sample question related to this topic and analyze how to approach it effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people believe that schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Others believe that this is the role of parents. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question, while not directly mentioning diversity, opens up the opportunity to discuss the importance of teaching children about diversity as part of being good members of society. Let’s break down the key elements of this question:
- Two viewpoints are presented:
- Schools should teach children how to be good members of society
- Parents should teach children how to be good members of society
- You need to discuss both views
- You should give your own opinion
Sample Essay (Band 8-9)
Here’s a sample essay that addresses the question effectively:
In today’s interconnected world, the question of who should bear the responsibility for teaching children to be good citizens is increasingly important. While some argue that this task falls to schools, others maintain that it is primarily the duty of parents. In my opinion, both institutions play crucial roles in shaping children into responsible members of society.
Those who advocate for schools taking the lead in this area argue that educational institutions are uniquely positioned to provide a structured and comprehensive approach to civic education. Schools can implement curricula that cover a wide range of social topics, including the importance of diversity, ethical behavior, and civic responsibilities. Moreover, schools offer a diverse environment where children can interact with peers from various backgrounds, providing practical experience in social skills and cultural awareness.
On the other hand, proponents of parental responsibility argue that the family is the first and most influential social unit in a child’s life. Parents serve as the primary role models and have the most consistent presence in their children’s formative years. They can instill values, teach moral principles, and demonstrate good citizenship through their daily actions and conversations. Additionally, parents can tailor their guidance to their child’s individual needs and the specific cultural context of their family and community.
In my view, the most effective approach is a collaborative effort between schools and parents. Schools can provide the structured learning and diverse social environment necessary for developing well-rounded citizens, while parents can reinforce these lessons at home and provide personalized guidance. For instance, schools might teach about the importance of respecting different cultures, and parents can support this by exposing their children to diverse experiences in their community.
This collaborative approach is particularly crucial when it comes to teaching children about diversity. Schools can offer formal education on different cultures, religions, and societal structures, while parents can demonstrate acceptance and curiosity about differences in their everyday lives. By working together, schools and parents can ensure that children receive consistent messages about the value of diversity and inclusion.
In conclusion, while both schools and parents have important roles to play in teaching children to be good members of society, the most effective approach involves cooperation between these two influential forces in a child’s life. This partnership can provide children with a comprehensive understanding of their social responsibilities, including the crucial aspect of appreciating and embracing diversity.
(Word count: 379)
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
Here’s another sample essay addressing the same question, but at a Band 6-7 level:
The question of who should teach children to be good members of society is important. Some people think schools should do this, while others believe it’s the parents’ job. I think both schools and parents have a role to play in this.
Schools are good places for teaching children about society because they have trained teachers and a planned curriculum. In schools, children can learn about things like diversity, following rules, and being responsible citizens. Schools also give children a chance to meet and work with different types of people, which helps them learn about diversity in real life.
On the other hand, parents are also very important in teaching children how to be good members of society. Parents are with their children from birth and can teach them good values and habits from a young age. They can show their children how to be good people by setting a good example in their daily lives. Parents can also teach their children about their family’s culture and values.
I believe that both schools and parents should work together to teach children about being good members of society. Schools can teach the formal lessons and provide a diverse environment, while parents can support these lessons at home. For example, if a school teaches about respecting different cultures, parents can take their children to cultural events or introduce them to people from different backgrounds.
This team effort is especially important when teaching children about diversity. Schools can teach facts about different cultures and religions, and parents can show their children how to respect and appreciate differences in real-life situations. By working together, schools and parents can make sure children understand why diversity is important and how to be inclusive.
In conclusion, I think the best way to teach children to be good members of society is for schools and parents to work together. This way, children get a complete education about their social responsibilities, including understanding and valuing diversity.
(Word count: 323)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
- Address all parts of the question: Ensure you discuss both viewpoints and clearly state your own opinion.
- Use clear paragraph structure: Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea.
- Use linking words: Words like “moreover”, “additionally”, and “on the other hand” help to connect ideas and improve the flow of your essay.
- Provide specific examples: This helps to illustrate your points and make your essay more convincing.
- Maintain a formal tone: Avoid colloquial expressions and overly emotional language.
Vocabulary to Remember
Here are some key vocabulary items that can be useful when writing about this topic:
- Diversity (noun) /daɪˈvɜːrsəti/ – the state of having people from different social and ethnic backgrounds
- Inclusivity (noun) /ˌɪnkluːˈsɪvəti/ – the practice or policy of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized
- Civic responsibility (noun phrase) /ˈsɪvɪk rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – the duties and obligations of citizens in society
- Collaborative (adjective) /kəˈlæbərətɪv/ – involving two or more parties working together
- Formative years (noun phrase) /ˈfɔːrmətɪv jɪərz/ – the period in someone’s life that has an important influence on the way they develop
- To instill (verb) /ɪnˈstɪl/ – to gradually but firmly establish an idea or attitude in a person’s mind
- Well-rounded (adjective) /ˌwel ˈraʊndɪd/ – having a personality that is fully developed in all aspects
- Cultural awareness (noun phrase) /ˈkʌltʃərəl əˈweənəs/ – understanding and appreciation of cultural differences
Conclusion
Teaching children about the importance of diversity is a crucial aspect of preparing them to be good members of society. This topic is likely to continue appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, given its relevance in our increasingly globalized world. To prepare for such questions, practice writing essays that discuss the roles of different institutions (like schools and families) in shaping children’s understanding of society and diversity.
We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic. Consider the following question: “Some people believe that exposing children to diverse cultures from an early age is crucial for their development. Others think it can be confusing for young children. Discuss both views and give your opinion.” Share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills and deepen your understanding of this important topic.