Conflict management is a crucial skill in today’s interconnected world, and it’s no surprise that this topic frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on recent trends and the increasing emphasis on social skills in education, we can expect to see more questions related to conflict resolution in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this important topic.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that schools should teach children how to manage conflicts and disagreements with others. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question asks for your opinion on whether schools should include conflict management in their curriculum. It’s an agree/disagree type question, which means you need to clearly state your position and support it with relevant arguments and examples.
Sample Essay (Band 8-9)
In today’s increasingly complex and interconnected world, the ability to manage conflicts effectively is a critical life skill. I strongly agree that schools should incorporate conflict resolution training into their curriculum, as it provides students with essential tools for personal and professional success.
Firstly, teaching conflict management skills at school prepares children for real-life situations they will inevitably face. By learning how to navigate disagreements constructively, students develop emotional intelligence and communication skills that are invaluable in all aspects of life. For instance, a child who learns to express their feelings assertively without aggression is more likely to maintain healthy relationships and collaborate effectively with others in the future.
Moreover, conflict resolution education can significantly improve the school environment itself. When students are equipped with the tools to handle disputes peacefully, there is likely to be a reduction in bullying incidents and a more harmonious atmosphere conducive to learning. This not only enhances academic performance but also contributes to students’ overall well-being and mental health.
Furthermore, conflict management skills are increasingly sought after in the professional world. In an era where teamwork and cross-cultural collaboration are commonplace, employees who can navigate conflicts effectively are highly valued. By introducing these skills early, schools are essentially providing students with a competitive edge in their future careers.
However, it is important to note that teaching conflict resolution should be done thoughtfully and age-appropriately. Schools need to develop comprehensive programs that include role-playing exercises, case studies, and practical application of conflict management techniques. This ensures that students not only understand the theory but can also apply these skills in real-life situations.
In conclusion, I firmly believe that schools have a responsibility to teach conflict management skills. By doing so, they are not only preparing students for immediate challenges in their academic lives but also equipping them with essential tools for long-term personal and professional success. As our world becomes increasingly diverse and interconnected, the ability to manage conflicts effectively will only grow in importance.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
I agree that schools should teach children how to manage conflicts and disagreements with others. This is important because it helps students in many ways.
Firstly, learning to handle conflicts can make school life better. When students know how to solve problems with their classmates, there will be fewer fights and arguments. This creates a nicer place to study and learn. For example, if two students disagree about a group project, they can use conflict management skills to find a solution instead of getting angry with each other.
Secondly, these skills are useful for the future. In jobs and in personal life, people often have to deal with different opinions and problems. If children learn how to manage conflicts early, they will be better prepared for adult life. They might find it easier to work in teams or solve problems in their relationships.
However, teaching conflict management in schools might be challenging. Teachers need to be trained properly to teach these skills effectively. Also, it might be difficult to find time in the school day to include these lessons, as there are already many subjects to cover.
Despite these challenges, I think the benefits of teaching conflict management are very important. Schools should try to include these lessons in their programs, maybe as part of other subjects or in special workshops.
In conclusion, I believe schools should teach children how to manage conflicts because it helps create a better school environment and prepares students for future challenges in life and work.
(Word count: 249)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Clear Position: Both essays clearly state the writer’s position in the introduction. The Band 8-9 essay uses “I strongly agree,” while the Band 6-7 essay uses “I agree.”
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more developed ideas and smoother transitions between paragraphs.
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Examples: The Band 8-9 essay provides more specific and detailed examples, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler, more general examples.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and expressions, such as “navigate disagreements constructively” and “emotional intelligence.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively communicates the ideas.
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Grammar: Both essays use a mix of simple and complex sentences. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures.
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Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated linking words and phrases, creating a smoother flow of ideas.
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Addressing the Question: Both essays fully address the question, discussing the importance of teaching conflict management in schools.
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Conclusion: The Band 8-9 essay provides a more nuanced conclusion that reinforces the main arguments, while the Band 6-7 essay offers a simpler restatement of the main points.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
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Conflict management (noun) /ˈkɒnflɪkt ˈmænɪdʒmənt/ – The practice of identifying and handling conflicts sensibly, fairly, and efficiently.
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Emotional intelligence (noun) /ɪˈməʊʃənl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – The capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically.
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Assertively (adverb) /əˈsɜːtɪvli/ – In a confident and forceful manner.
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Harmonious (adjective) /hɑːˈməʊniəs/ – Free from disagreement or discord; peaceful.
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Cross-cultural collaboration (noun phrase) /krɒs ˈkʌltʃərəl kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/ – The process of working together with people from different cultural backgrounds.
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Conducive (adjective) /kənˈdjuːsɪv/ – Making a certain situation or outcome likely or possible.
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Navigate (verb) /ˈnævɪɡeɪt/ – To find a way through, across, or around something difficult or complex.
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Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.
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Role-playing (noun) /ˈrəʊl ˌpleɪɪŋ/ – The acting out or performance of a particular role, either consciously or unconsciously.
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Diverse (adjective) /daɪˈvɜːs/ – Showing a great deal of variety; very different.
In conclusion, the topic of teaching conflict management in schools is highly relevant in today’s IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. By understanding the key elements of a strong essay on this topic and familiarizing yourself with related vocabulary, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle similar questions in the future.
For further practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as “The role of schools in developing social skills” or “The importance of emotional intelligence in education.” You can also explore how education promotes global citizenship and environmental awareness, which are closely related to conflict management skills in our interconnected world.
Remember to post your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.