Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Teaching Mindfulness to Children – Sample Essays and Expert Analysis

In recent years, the topic of teaching mindfulness to children has gained significant attention in IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts. This trend reflects the growing importance of mental health and well-being in educational settings. As an IELTS instructor, I’ve observed an increasing frequency of questions related to this subject, and I predict it will continue to be a popular theme in future exams.

Let’s examine a relevant IELTS Writing Task 2 question that aligns closely with this topic:

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.

Analyzing the Question

This question indirectly relates to teaching mindfulness to children, as mindfulness can be considered a key component of being a good member of society. The prompt requires us to:

1. Discuss the view that schools should teach children how to be good members of society
2. Discuss the view that parents should be responsible for this task
3. Provide our own opinion on the matter

Now, let’s look at 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 debate over whether schools or parents should be responsible for teaching children to be good members of society is a contentious one. While both parties play crucial roles in a child’s development, I believe that this responsibility should be shared between schools and parents, with each contributing their unique strengths to the process.

Those who advocate for schools taking on this role argue that educational institutions have the resources and expertise to implement structured programs that foster social responsibility and mindfulness. Schools can provide a controlled environment where children learn to interact with diverse peers, respect authority figures outside their family, and engage in community service projects. Moreover, trained educators can systematically teach crucial life skills such as empathy, conflict resolution, and civic engagement, which are essential for being a good member of society.

On the other hand, proponents of parental responsibility assert that the family is the primary unit of society and, therefore, the most appropriate place for children to learn societal values. Parents can provide personalized guidance tailored to their child’s unique personality and needs. They can model good behavior in real-life situations and instill cultural and moral values that align with their family’s beliefs. Additionally, the emotional bond between parents and children creates a powerful learning environment that schools cannot replicate.

In my opinion, the most effective approach is a collaborative effort between schools and parents. Schools can offer structured programs and diverse social experiences, while parents can reinforce these lessons at home and provide individualized moral guidance. This synergy ensures that children receive consistent messages about social responsibility from multiple trusted sources.

For instance, a school might implement a mindfulness program to help students manage stress and develop empathy. Parents can then support this initiative by practicing mindfulness techniques at home and discussing their benefits in real-life situations. This collaborative approach not only teaches children how to be good members of society but also demonstrates the importance of community cooperation in achieving common goals.

In conclusion, while both schools and parents have vital roles in shaping children into responsible members of society, a combined effort yields the best results. By leveraging the strengths of both educational institutions and family units, we can provide children with a comprehensive foundation for becoming mindful, empathetic, and socially responsible individuals.

(Word count: 374)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

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 job of parents. In my opinion, both schools and parents should work together to teach children these important skills.

Schools have many advantages when it comes to teaching children about being good members of society. They have trained teachers who know how to teach these skills. Schools also provide a place where children can practice these skills with other kids from different backgrounds. For example, schools can teach children about teamwork through group projects or about helping others through community service activities.

However, parents also play a big role in teaching their children how to be good members of society. Parents are the first teachers a child has and they can set a good example at home. They can teach their children important values like honesty and kindness. Parents can also help their children understand their culture and traditions, which is an important part of being in society.

I think the best way is for schools and parents to work together. Schools can teach the basic skills and knowledge, while parents can support these lessons at home. For instance, if a school teaches about being kind to others, parents can encourage their children to practice this at home and in their neighborhood.

In conclusion, both schools and parents have important roles in teaching children how to be good members of society. By working together, they can give children the best chance to become responsible and caring adults in the future.

(Word count: 263)

Teaching mindfulness to children in classroom

Key Considerations When Writing

When addressing topics related to teaching mindfulness to children in IELTS Writing Task 2, consider the following:

For Band 8-9 essays:

1. Vocabulary: Use sophisticated and precise language. For example, “implement structured programs,” “foster social responsibility,” and “systematically teach crucial life skills.”

2. Grammar: Employ a variety of complex structures. For instance, “While both parties play crucial roles in a child’s development, I believe that this responsibility should be shared between schools and parents.”

3. Coherence and Cohesion: Use a range of linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. Examples include “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” and “For instance.”

4. Task Response: Fully address all parts of the question with well-developed ideas and a clear position.

For Band 6-7 essays:

1. Vocabulary: Use a mix of common and some less common vocabulary. For example, “trained teachers,” “community service activities,” and “set a good example.”

2. Grammar: Use a combination of simple and complex sentences. For instance, “Schools have many advantages when it comes to teaching children about being good members of society.”

3. Coherence and Cohesion: Use basic linking words correctly. Examples include “However,” “For example,” and “In conclusion.”

4. Task Response: Address all parts of the question with relevant ideas, even if not fully developed.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Mindfulness (noun) /ˈmaɪnd.fəl.nəs/ – the practice of being aware of your body, mind, and feelings in the present moment.

2. Empathy (noun) /ˈem.pə.θi/ – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

3. Civic engagement (noun phrase) /ˈsɪv.ɪk ɪnˈɡeɪdʒ.mənt/ – involvement in public affairs and community activities.

4. Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪl.i.əns/ – the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

5. Emotional intelligence (noun phrase) /ɪˈməʊ.ʃən.əl ɪnˈtel.ɪ.dʒəns/ – the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions.

6. Self-awareness (noun) /ˌself.əˈweə.nəs/ – conscious knowledge of one’s own character, feelings, motives, and desires.

7. Collaborative (adjective) /kəˈlæb.ər.ə.tɪv/ – involving two or more parties working together.

8. Holistic (adjective) /həʊˈlɪs.tɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected and can be explained only by reference to the whole.

In conclusion, the topic of teaching mindfulness to children, whether directly or indirectly, is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as the role of schools vs. parents in child development, the importance of mental health education, or the benefits of mindfulness in academic settings. Remember to focus on developing your vocabulary, grammar, and coherence to achieve your target band score.

We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam.