The topic of promoting mental health in schools has gained significant importance in recent years, reflecting a growing awareness of the crucial role educational institutions play in supporting students’ overall well-being. This subject has appeared frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays, with variations focusing on different aspects such as awareness programs, counseling services, and curriculum integration. Based on the analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, it is highly likely that this theme will continue to be a popular choice for future tests.
Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that schools should take responsibility for teaching students about mental health and well-being. Others think that this is not the role of schools and should be left to parents and healthcare professionals. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents a balanced argument about the role of schools in mental health education. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the viewpoint that schools should be responsible for teaching mental health.
- Explore the opposing view that this responsibility lies with parents and health professionals.
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter.
The question tests the ability to analyze different perspectives, provide relevant examples, and articulate a well-reasoned position.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Mental health education in schools has become a topic of heated debate, with some advocating for its inclusion in the curriculum while others argue that it should remain the domain of parents and healthcare professionals. In my opinion, while parents and medical experts play crucial roles, schools are uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive mental health education and support.
Proponents of school-based mental health education argue that schools are ideal environments for this purpose. Firstly, schools have daily access to students during their formative years, allowing for consistent and age-appropriate mental health education. Secondly, teachers are often the first to notice signs of mental health issues in students, making early intervention possible. For example, in countries like Finland, where mental health education is integrated into the school curriculum, there has been a noticeable improvement in students’ overall well-being and academic performance.
On the other hand, those opposing this view contend that mental health education should be the responsibility of parents and healthcare professionals. They argue that parents have a deeper understanding of their children’s individual needs and can provide more personalized support. Additionally, healthcare professionals possess specialized knowledge and skills to address complex mental health issues. For instance, in some cultures, mental health is considered a private family matter, and parents may prefer to handle these issues within the home environment.
However, I believe that a collaborative approach involving schools, parents, and healthcare professionals would be most effective. Schools can provide a foundation of knowledge and awareness, creating a supportive environment where mental health is openly discussed. This can be complemented by parental guidance at home and professional support when necessary. For example, schools could implement regular mental health check-ins, while also maintaining open communication channels with parents and local mental health services.
In conclusion, while parents and healthcare professionals have important roles to play, schools should take a lead in promoting mental health education. This approach ensures that all students have access to essential mental health information and support, regardless of their family background or resources. By fostering a culture of mental health awareness in schools, we can better equip the next generation to face life’s challenges with resilience and understanding.
[Word count: 349]
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of who should be responsible for teaching students about mental health is a complex one. Some people think schools should do this, while others believe it’s the job of parents and health professionals. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support schools teaching mental health say it’s important because students spend a lot of time at school. Teachers can see if students are having problems and help them early. Also, if all students learn about mental health, it can reduce the shame some people feel about it. For example, in my country, some schools have started teaching about stress and how to deal with it, and many students find this helpful.
On the other hand, some people think parents and health professionals should teach about mental health. Parents know their children best and can give personal support. Health professionals have special training in mental health and can give expert advice. In some families, mental health is a private topic that they prefer to discuss at home.
In my opinion, both schools and parents should work together to teach about mental health. Schools can give basic information and create a supportive environment. Parents can continue this education at home and provide personal support. If needed, health professionals can give extra help. This way, students get support from all sides.
To conclude, while parents and health professionals are important, I believe schools should also play a big role in teaching about mental health. This ensures all students learn about this important topic, no matter what their family situation is. By working together, we can help students understand mental health better and know how to take care of themselves.
[Word count: 279]
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. The essay is virtually error-free.
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows a competent handling of the task, though with some limitations:
- Task Response: All parts of the task are addressed, but some aspects are more fully covered than others. The essay presents relevant ideas but some may be less fully extended.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally well organized, with clear overall progression. Paragraphing is used but may not always be logical.
- Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task. There may be some inaccuracy in word choice or spelling, but this does not impede communication.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are some errors, but these do not impede communication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Mental health (noun) /ˌmen.təl ˈhelθ/: A person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being.
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Well-being (noun) /ˌwel ˈbiːɪŋ/: The state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy.
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Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪk.jə.ləm/: The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.
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Intervention (noun) /ˌɪn.təˈven.ʃən/: The action or process of intervening, especially in a problematic situation.
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Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪl.i.əns/: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
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Stigma (noun) /ˈstɪɡ.mə/: A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.
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Collaborative (adjective) /kəˈlæb.ər.ə.tɪv/: Involving two or more parties working together.
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Formative (adjective) /ˈfɔːr.mə.tɪv/: Having an important and lasting influence on the development of something.
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Personalized (adjective) /ˈpɜː.sən.əl.aɪzd/: Designed or produced to meet someone’s individual requirements.
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Integrate (verb) /ˈɪn.tə.ɡreɪt/: Combine (one thing) with another so that they become a whole.
In conclusion, the topic of promoting mental health in schools is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Future questions might explore specific aspects such as the effectiveness of school-based mental health programs, the role of technology in mental health education, or the balance between academic and mental health support in educational settings. To prepare, practice writing essays on related topics such as the importance of promoting mental health awareness in various contexts, or the importance of public awareness in promoting mental health more broadly.
We encourage readers to practice writing their own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section. This active engagement can significantly improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.