The importance of moral education in building social cohesion is a topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on recent trends and analysis of past IELTS exams, this theme is likely to continue being a popular subject in future tests. Its relevance to contemporary social issues makes it a prime candidate for assessment. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis to help you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2.
Analyzing the Task
For this essay, we’ll focus on the following question:
Some people believe that moral education should be a part of the school curriculum to promote social cohesion. Others argue that it’s not the responsibility of schools. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that moral education should be included in school curricula
- Discuss the opposing view that schools are not responsible for moral education
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Remember to address all parts of the question and support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations.
Moral Education in Classroom
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
In today’s increasingly diverse societies, the role of moral education in fostering social cohesion has become a subject of heated debate. While some advocate for its inclusion in school curricula, others argue that it falls outside the purview of educational institutions. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering a personal stance on this contentious issue.
Proponents of incorporating moral education into school syllabi argue that it plays a crucial role in shaping responsible citizens and promoting social harmony. By teaching ethical values, critical thinking, and empathy, schools can equip students with the tools necessary to navigate complex social situations and make informed decisions. Moreover, a standardized moral education curriculum ensures that all students, regardless of their background, are exposed to a common set of values that can serve as a foundation for social cohesion.
On the other hand, those who oppose this view contend that moral education should primarily be the responsibility of families and religious institutions. They argue that schools should focus on academic subjects and leave value-based instruction to parents and community leaders. This perspective emphasizes the potential for conflicts between diverse cultural and religious beliefs if schools attempt to implement a uniform moral education program.
In my opinion, while families and communities undoubtedly play a significant role in a child’s moral development, schools also have a responsibility to contribute to this aspect of education. A balanced approach that combines home-based values with a school curriculum focused on universal ethical principles could be most effective. This would involve teaching critical thinking skills, empathy, and respect for diversity, rather than prescribing specific moral codes.
To implement this effectively, schools could incorporate ethical discussions into existing subjects, such as literature or social studies, rather than creating a separate moral education class. This integrated approach would help students apply ethical reasoning to real-world scenarios and develop a nuanced understanding of moral issues.
In conclusion, the importance of moral education in building social cohesion cannot be overstated. While the primary responsibility may lie with families, schools have a unique opportunity to reinforce and expand upon these teachings in a diverse and inclusive environment. By striking a balance between academic and moral education, schools can play a vital role in fostering a more cohesive and ethically-minded society.
(Word count: 365)
Band 6-7 Essay
The question of whether moral education should be part of the school curriculum to promote social cohesion is a debatable topic. Some people think it’s important for schools to teach moral values, while others believe it’s not their job. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support moral education in schools argue that it can help create a better society. They believe that by teaching students about right and wrong, respect for others, and how to be good citizens, schools can contribute to social harmony. For example, lessons on empathy and kindness could reduce bullying and discrimination. Also, if all students learn the same moral values, it might be easier for people from different backgrounds to understand each other and get along.
On the other hand, opponents of this idea say that moral education should be left to families and religious institutions. They think schools should focus on academic subjects like math, science, and languages. These people worry that schools might teach moral values that conflict with what some families believe. They also argue that teachers might not be qualified to teach about morals and ethics.
In my opinion, I think schools should play a role in moral education, but it should be done carefully. Schools can teach universal values like honesty, respect, and fairness without getting into controversial topics. They can include discussions about ethics in subjects like literature and history, which can help students think critically about moral issues. However, I also believe that families should be the main source of moral guidance for children.
To conclude, while there are valid arguments on both sides, I think a balanced approach is best. Schools can support moral education in a way that complements what students learn at home, helping to create a more cohesive society.
(Word count: 293)
Band 5-6 Essay
Moral education in schools is a topic that many people talk about. Some think it’s good for social cohesion, but others don’t agree. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support moral education in schools say it’s important. They think it can help students learn how to be good people. If schools teach about right and wrong, it might make society better. For example, students can learn about being kind to others. This could make them better citizens when they grow up.
But some people don’t think schools should teach moral education. They say it’s the job of parents and maybe religious places. These people think schools should only teach subjects like math and science. They worry that moral education in schools might not agree with what families believe.
I think moral education in schools can be good, but it needs to be done carefully. Schools can teach some basic good things, like being honest and respecting others. But they shouldn’t try to replace what parents teach at home. Maybe schools can include some moral lessons in other subjects, like in stories they read in class.
In conclusion, moral education in schools is a difficult topic. I think it can help make society better if it’s done in the right way. Schools and families should work together to teach children how to be good people.
(Word count: 218)
Analysis of Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellent coherence and cohesion, with a clear structure and logical progression of ideas. The language used is sophisticated and varied, with a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Key features include:
- Strong introduction: Clearly presents the topic and outlines the essay structure.
- Well-developed paragraphs: Each paragraph focuses on a specific point and provides relevant examples.
- Balanced argument: Both sides of the debate are thoroughly discussed.
- Clear personal opinion: The writer’s stance is evident and well-supported.
- Effective conclusion: Summarizes the main points and reinforces the writer’s opinion.
The essay effectively addresses all parts of the question and provides a nuanced perspective on the topic. The use of academic vocabulary and complex grammatical structures contributes to its high band score.
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates good coherence and addresses all parts of the task. The language used is generally clear, though less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay. Key features include:
- Clear structure: The essay follows a logical organization.
- Relevant ideas: Each paragraph presents relevant points related to the topic.
- Personal opinion: The writer’s view is clearly stated.
- Adequate vocabulary: The essay uses some topic-specific vocabulary.
- Conclusion: Summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s opinion.
While the essay covers the main points, it lacks the depth and sophistication of the higher band essay. The language is more straightforward, and the arguments could be further developed with more specific examples.
Band 5-6 Essay Analysis
This essay addresses the basic requirements of the task but lacks the depth and language sophistication of higher band essays. Key features include:
- Basic structure: The essay follows a simple but clear organization.
- Main ideas covered: The essay touches on the main points required by the question.
- Simple language: The vocabulary and sentence structures are basic but generally accurate.
- Personal opinion: The writer’s view is stated, though not extensively developed.
- Brief conclusion: Summarizes the main points in a simple manner.
The essay demonstrates a basic understanding of the topic but lacks detailed examples and in-depth analysis. The language used is repetitive and simple, which limits the overall score.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Social cohesion (noun) /ˈsəʊʃl kəʊˈhiːʒn/ – The willingness of members of a society to cooperate with each other in order to survive and prosper.
Moral education (noun phrase) /ˈmɒrəl ˌedjʊˈkeɪʃn/ – Education that teaches about principles concerning right and wrong behavior.
Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjʊləm/ – The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.
Ethical values (noun phrase) /ˈeθɪkl ˈvæljuːz/ – Moral principles that govern a person’s behavior or the conducting of an activity.
Empathy (noun) /ˈempəθi/ – The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
Universal principles (noun phrase) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈprɪnsəplz/ – Fundamental ideas or rules that are believed to be true and applicable in all situations.
Critical thinking (noun phrase) /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment.
Diversity (noun) /daɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The state of being diverse; variety.
Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.
Cohesive (adjective) /kəʊˈhiːsɪv/ – Characterized by or causing cohesion; unified and consistent.
Conclusion
The importance of moral education in building social cohesion is a complex and nuanced topic that requires careful consideration. As demonstrated in the sample essays, there are valid arguments on both sides of the debate. When tackling this type of question in your IELTS Writing Task 2, remember to:
- Clearly state and explain both perspectives
- Provide relevant examples to support your points
- Express your own opinion with justification
- Use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your level
To further prepare for similar topics, you might want to practice writing essays on related subjects such as:
- The role of schools in teaching cultural values
- Balancing academic and character education in schools
- The impact of moral education on reducing social problems
Remember, the key to improving your IELTS Writing score is consistent practice and reflection. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your skills and boost your confidence for the actual IELTS exam.