Education plays a pivotal role in fostering social cohesion, a topic that has gained significant attention in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. This theme has appeared multiple times in various forms, reflecting its relevance in today’s globalized world. As we analyze past trends and predict future occurrences, it’s highly likely that questions related to education’s impact on social unity will continue to be a focal point in upcoming IELTS tests.

Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:

Some people believe that schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Others believe that this is the role of the family. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question directly addresses the role of education in fostering social cohesion. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that schools should teach children about being good society members
2. Explore the perspective that families should be responsible for this aspect of education
3. Provide a personal opinion on the matter

The question touches upon the core debate of institutional education versus family-based learning in shaping socially responsible individuals. It’s crucial to address both viewpoints and clearly state your own stance.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that effectively addresses all aspects of the question:

In the ongoing debate about who should bear the responsibility for teaching children to be good members of society, valid arguments exist on both sides. While some argue that this task falls squarely on the shoulders of schools, others maintain that it is primarily the family’s duty. In my opinion, both institutions play crucial roles in this process, and a collaborative approach would yield the best results.

Those who advocate for schools taking the lead in this matter have several compelling reasons. Firstly, schools provide a structured environment where children interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, offering practical opportunities to learn and practice social skills. Moreover, trained educators can systematically teach concepts like civic responsibility, empathy, and ethical decision-making, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of what it means to be a good citizen. Additionally, schools can implement programs and activities specifically designed to foster community engagement and social awareness, such as volunteer projects or mock elections.

On the other hand, proponents of family-centered social education argue that the home environment is where children first learn about values and social norms. Parents and guardians serve as primary role models, demonstrating through their actions how to interact with others and contribute positively to society. The family unit also provides a more personalized and culturally nuanced approach to teaching social responsibility, tailoring lessons to the child’s individual needs and the family’s specific values. Furthermore, the emotional bond within families can make these lessons more impactful and long-lasting.

In my view, the most effective approach is a partnership between schools and families. While schools can provide the theoretical framework and structured learning experiences, families can reinforce these lessons through practical application in daily life. This synergy ensures that children receive consistent messages about social responsibility from both institutional and personal sources. For instance, a school might teach about environmental conservation, which parents can then support by involving children in recycling efforts at home.

In conclusion, the task of teaching children to be good members of society is too important and complex to be the sole responsibility of either schools or families. A collaborative effort, leveraging the strengths of both institutions, is likely to produce well-rounded individuals who are prepared to contribute positively to their communities and the broader society.

(Word count: 365)

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that demonstrates the writing expected for a Band 6-7 score:

The question of who should teach children to be good members of society is a topic of debate. Some people think schools should do this, while others believe it’s the family’s job. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

There are good reasons why schools should teach children about being good citizens. Schools have trained teachers who know how to explain important ideas about society and how to behave. They can teach things like respecting others, following rules, and helping the community. Schools also give children a chance to practice these skills with other kids from different backgrounds. For example, schools can organize group projects where students learn to work together and solve problems.

On the other hand, many people think families should teach children how to be good members of society. Parents are the first teachers in a child’s life and have a big influence on their behavior. Families can teach values and morals that are important to them. They can also show children how to be good citizens by setting a good example. For instance, parents can take their children to volunteer at a local charity or explain why it’s important to vote.

In my opinion, both schools and families have important roles in teaching children to be good members of society. Schools can provide formal education about citizenship and social responsibility, while families can reinforce these lessons at home. I think the best approach is for schools and families to work together. This way, children get consistent messages about how to behave in society from both their teachers and parents.

To conclude, teaching children to be good members of society is a shared responsibility between schools and families. Both have unique strengths in this area, and by working together, they can help children become responsible and caring citizens.

(Word count: 309)

Key Considerations When Writing

1. For Band 8-9 essays:

   • Use sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
   • Provide in-depth analysis and well-developed arguments
   • Maintain a clear and logical structure throughout the essay
   • Use appropriate linking words to ensure smooth transitions between ideas

2. For Band 6-7 essays:

   • Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
   • Provide clear main ideas with some supporting details
   • Maintain a generally coherent structure
   • Use basic linking words to connect ideas

3. Grammar points to focus on:

   • Use of conditional sentences (e.g., “If schools take on this responsibility, they might…”)
   • Passive voice constructions (e.g., “Social skills can be taught in a structured environment”)
   • Relative clauses (e.g., “Parents, who are the primary role models…”)

4. Vocabulary to enhance your essay:

   • Use topic-specific terms like “civic responsibility,” “social cohesion,” “community engagement”
   • Employ precise verbs such as “foster,” “instill,” “reinforce” instead of general ones like “teach” or “show”

Education fostering social cohesion

Essential Vocabulary for This Topic

1. Social cohesion (noun) /ˈsəʊʃəl kəʊˈhiːʒən/: The willingness of members of a society to cooperate with each other in order to survive and prosper.

2. Civic responsibility (noun) /ˈsɪvɪk rɪˌspɒnsɪˈbɪlɪti/: The duty of citizens in a society to participate in their community and contribute to its welfare.

3. Empathy (noun) /ˈempəθi/: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

4. Diversity (noun) /daɪˈvɜːsɪti/: The state of having people from different social and ethnic backgrounds.

5. Inclusivity (noun) /ˌɪnkluːˈsɪvɪti/: The practice or policy of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized.

6. Ethical (adjective) /ˈeθɪkəl/: Relating to moral principles or the branch of knowledge dealing with these.

7. Collaborative (adjective) /kəˈlæbərətɪv/: Involving two or more parties working together.

8. Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/: Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.

9. Synergy (noun) /ˈsɪnədʒi/: The interaction of two or more agents or forces so that their combined effect is greater than the sum of their individual effects.

10. Reinforce (verb) /ˌriːɪnˈfɔːs/: To strengthen or support, especially with additional personnel or material.

In conclusion, the topic of education’s role in fostering social cohesion is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as the balance between academic and social education, the role of extracurricular activities in promoting social skills, or the impact of inclusive education policies on social cohesion.

We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section below. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and gain valuable feedback, essential for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

• The Importance of Lifelong Learning in a Rapidly Changing World
• How to Promote Civic Engagement Through Education
• How to Promote Social Justice Through Education