Disaster preparedness in schools is a crucial topic that has gained significant attention in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This theme reflects the growing global concern for student safety and the role of educational institutions in disaster management. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, we can expect this topic to appear frequently in future tests, particularly in countries prone to natural disasters.
Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that schools should teach children how to survive natural disasters. Others believe that there are more important subjects that should be taught in schools. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that schools should teach disaster survival skills
- Present the opposing view that other subjects are more important
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your personal stance.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Natural disasters can strike at any moment, leaving destruction in their wake. While some argue that schools should prioritize teaching survival skills for such events, others contend that the curriculum should focus on more traditional subjects. In my opinion, a balanced approach that incorporates both disaster preparedness and core academic subjects is essential for a well-rounded education.
Proponents of disaster preparedness education argue that it is a vital life skill that can save lives. In countries like Japan, where earthquakes are frequent, schools regularly conduct drills and teach students how to respond during seismic events. This knowledge has proven invaluable during actual disasters, significantly reducing casualties and promoting a culture of preparedness. Moreover, these skills extend beyond the classroom, as students can share this knowledge with their families and communities, creating a ripple effect of disaster readiness.
On the other hand, those who prioritize traditional subjects argue that the primary role of schools is to provide a strong foundation in core academic areas. They contend that subjects like mathematics, science, and languages are crucial for students’ future success in higher education and the job market. Additionally, they argue that disaster preparedness can be taught at home or through extracurricular activities, leaving more time in school for essential academic subjects.
In my view, the ideal approach is to integrate disaster preparedness into the existing curriculum without compromising on core subjects. This can be achieved by incorporating practical survival skills into relevant subject areas. For example, physics lessons could include the science behind earthquakes and how to construct earthquake-resistant structures. Geography classes could cover the impact of climate change on natural disasters and effective evacuation strategies. This integrated approach ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for both academic success and real-world challenges.
In conclusion, while the debate between disaster preparedness and traditional subjects in schools is valid, I believe that a balanced and integrated approach is the most effective solution. By weaving survival skills into the existing curriculum, schools can equip students with the knowledge they need to excel academically while also preparing them for potential natural disasters.
[Word count: 340]
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Natural disasters are becoming more common these days, and some people think schools should teach children how to survive them. However, others believe that schools should focus on teaching more important subjects. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, teaching disaster survival skills in schools can be very helpful. Many countries experience natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, or typhoons, and knowing how to stay safe during these events is important. For example, in Japan, students learn what to do during earthquakes, which has helped save many lives. Also, when children learn these skills, they can share them with their families, making the whole community safer.
On the other hand, some people think that schools should focus on traditional subjects like math, science, and languages. They believe these subjects are more important for students’ future careers and education. They also say that there isn’t enough time in the school day to teach everything, so schools should prioritize the most important subjects. Some argue that disaster preparedness can be taught at home or in after-school programs instead.
In my opinion, I think schools should try to do both. They can include disaster preparedness lessons in other subjects. For example, in science class, students can learn about the causes of natural disasters and how to stay safe. In health class, they can learn first aid skills that are useful in many situations, not just disasters. This way, students can learn important academic subjects and survival skills at the same time.
To conclude, while there are different opinions on whether schools should teach disaster survival skills or focus on traditional subjects, I believe a balanced approach is best. By combining disaster preparedness with regular subjects, schools can give students a well-rounded education that prepares them for both academic success and real-life challenges.
[Word count: 309]
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, some people think schools should teach kids how to survive natural disasters. But other people say schools should teach more important subjects. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
First, teaching about disasters in schools can be good. Many places have earthquakes, floods, or big storms, and it’s important to know what to do when they happen. In some countries, like Japan, students practice what to do in earthquakes. This helps them stay safe. Also, when kids learn these things, they can tell their families, so everyone knows what to do.
But some people think schools should teach other subjects more. They say math, science, and languages are more important for getting good jobs later. They think there’s not enough time to teach everything in school, so schools should focus on the most important things. Some people say kids can learn about disasters at home or after school instead.
I think schools should try to do both. They can teach about disasters in other classes. For example, in science class, they can learn why disasters happen and how to be safe. In health class, they can learn how to help people who are hurt. This way, students can learn important subjects and how to be safe in disasters.
In conclusion, there are different ideas about what schools should teach. I think it’s good to teach both regular subjects and how to be safe in disasters. This helps students learn many important things for their future.
[Word count: 247]
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the response
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Provides well-developed, extended ideas with clear progression throughout
- Uses cohesive devices effectively and appropriately
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, though the conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary with some errors in word choice
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with some errors that do not impede communication
- Presents relevant main ideas but some may be inadequately developed/unclear
- Uses cohesive devices but not always appropriately or accurately
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary with noticeable errors in word choice and spelling
- Uses only a limited range of structures with some errors that may cause difficulty for the reader
- Presents some main ideas but these are limited and not sufficiently developed
- Makes inadequate, inaccurate or overuse of cohesive devices
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Disaster preparedness (noun) – /dɪˈzɑːstər prɪˈpeərədnəs/ – The state of being ready for potential disasters
- Natural disasters (noun) – /ˈnætʃrəl dɪˈzɑːstərz/ – Catastrophic events caused by nature
- Curriculum (noun) – /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – The subjects comprising a course of study in a school
- Integrated approach (noun) – /ˈɪntɪgreɪtɪd əˈprəʊtʃ/ – A method that combines different elements
- Well-rounded education (noun) – /wel ˈraʊndɪd edjʊˈkeɪʃn/ – A comprehensive and balanced education
- Evacuation strategies (noun) – /ɪˌvækjuˈeɪʃn ˈstrætədʒiz/ – Plans for safely leaving an area during an emergency
- Extracurricular activities (noun) – /ˌekstrəkəˈrɪkjələr ækˈtɪvətiz/ – Activities pursued in addition to the normal course of study
- Academic success (noun) – /ækəˈdemɪk səkˈses/ – Achievement in educational pursuits
- Ripple effect (noun) – /ˈrɪpl ɪˈfekt/ – The continuing and spreading results of an event or action
- Seismic events (noun) – /ˈsaɪzmɪk ɪˈvents/ – Occurrences related to earthquakes or earth vibrations
The importance of community resilience in disaster preparedness is a crucial aspect that complements school-based disaster education. By combining both individual and community-level preparedness, we can create a more robust defense against natural disasters.
In conclusion, the topic of disaster preparedness in schools is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Candidates should be prepared to discuss various aspects of this issue, including its integration into the curriculum, its importance relative to other subjects, and its potential impact on communities. To practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related themes such as:
- The role of technology in disaster preparedness education
- The importance of mental health support in disaster recovery programs for students
- The balance between academic subjects and life skills in school curricula
Remember to post your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
Should students learn first aid in school is another related topic that often comes up in discussions about disaster preparedness and life skills education. This skill can be particularly valuable in emergency situations, including natural disasters.
As climate change continues to affect our planet, the impact of climate change on education systems in vulnerable regions becomes an increasingly important consideration. This topic intersects with disaster preparedness, as schools in vulnerable areas must adapt to changing environmental conditions and increased risk of natural disasters.