The topic of teaching ethics in schools has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and the growing emphasis on moral education globally, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in past IELTS exams and could potentially resurface:

Some people think that schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Others believe that school should only teach children academic subjects. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question directly addresses the importance of teaching ethical values in schools while also considering the alternative view of focusing solely on academic subjects. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Question Analysis

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that schools should teach children how to be good members of society (i.e., ethics and social values).
2. Discuss the opposing view that schools should focus only on academic subjects.
3. Provide your own opinion on the matter.

Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your personal stance.

Sample Essay for Band 8

Ethics and academics are both crucial components of education, each playing a vital role in shaping future generations. While some argue that schools should prioritize teaching children how to be good members of society, others contend that the focus should remain solely on academic subjects. In my opinion, a balanced approach incorporating both ethical and academic education is essential for a well-rounded learning experience.

Proponents of teaching social values in schools argue that this approach helps create responsible and empathetic citizens. By incorporating lessons on ethics, cooperation, and civic responsibility, schools can instill important values that will guide students throughout their lives. For instance, learning about environmental ethics can lead to more sustainable practices, while understanding social justice can foster a more equitable society. Moreover, these lessons often complement academic subjects, enhancing students’ critical thinking skills and ability to apply knowledge in real-world contexts.

On the other hand, those who advocate for a purely academic focus argue that schools should concentrate on providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary for their future careers and higher education. They contend that ethical education should be the responsibility of parents and other social institutions, allowing schools to dedicate more time to subjects like mathematics, sciences, and languages. This perspective emphasizes the importance of academic excellence in an increasingly competitive global job market.

In my view, the ideal approach lies in striking a balance between teaching ethics and academic subjects. Schools have a unique opportunity to provide a structured environment where students can learn both intellectual and moral lessons. By integrating ethical discussions into academic curricula, schools can demonstrate the real-world applications of knowledge while fostering critical thinking and empathy. For example, a history lesson on colonialism could incorporate discussions on cultural sensitivity and global equality, thereby combining academic content with ethical considerations.

Furthermore, the importance of teaching critical thinking in schools cannot be overstated, as it forms the foundation for both ethical decision-making and academic success. By encouraging students to question, analyze, and evaluate information, schools can prepare them to navigate complex ethical dilemmas and excel in their academic pursuits.

In conclusion, while academic subjects are undoubtedly important, the role of schools in shaping good members of society should not be overlooked. A holistic approach that combines ethical education with academic rigor will better prepare students for the challenges of the modern world, fostering both intellectual growth and moral development.

(Word count: 398)

Students discussing ethical dilemmas in classroom

Sample Essay for Band 7

The role of schools in society has long been debated, with some arguing that they should focus on teaching children to be good citizens, while others believe academic subjects should be the sole priority. Both perspectives have merit, and I believe a balanced approach is necessary.

Those who support teaching social values in schools argue that it helps create a more harmonious society. By learning about ethics, cooperation, and civic responsibility, students can develop into well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to their communities. For example, lessons on environmental ethics can lead to more sustainable practices, while understanding social justice can promote equality. These skills are often as important as academic knowledge in many aspects of life.

On the other hand, proponents of a purely academic focus argue that schools should concentrate on providing students with the knowledge and skills needed for their future careers and higher education. They believe that ethical education should be the responsibility of parents and other social institutions. This view emphasizes the importance of academic excellence in a competitive job market, where strong subject knowledge is often a key factor in success.

In my opinion, schools should strive to balance both ethical and academic education. By integrating ethical discussions into academic subjects, schools can demonstrate the real-world applications of knowledge while fostering critical thinking and empathy. For instance, a science lesson on genetic engineering could include a discussion on the ethical implications of such technology, combining academic content with moral considerations.

Moreover, teaching ethics in schools can complement academic learning by enhancing students’ ability to think critically and apply knowledge in various contexts. This approach aligns with the importance of teaching critical thinking in schools, which is essential for both ethical decision-making and academic success.

In conclusion, while academic subjects are undoubtedly important, schools also have a responsibility to shape good members of society. A balanced approach that combines ethical education with academic rigor will better prepare students for the challenges of the modern world, fostering both intellectual growth and moral development.

(Word count: 329)

Sample Essay for Band 6

There is a debate about what schools should teach. Some people think schools should teach children how to be good members of society. Others say schools should only teach academic subjects. I think both are important.

Teaching children to be good members of society is important because it helps create a better world. When students learn about ethics and how to be good citizens, they can make better choices in life. For example, they might learn to care for the environment or help others in need. These lessons can make society better for everyone.

However, academic subjects are also very important. Students need to learn things like math, science, and languages to get good jobs in the future. These subjects give them the knowledge they need to succeed in their careers and further education. Many people think this should be the main focus of schools.

In my opinion, schools should teach both ethics and academic subjects. They can do this by including ethical discussions in regular lessons. For example, in a history class, students could learn about past events and also talk about the moral issues involved. This way, students learn academic facts and how to think about right and wrong.

Teaching ethics can also help with academic learning. When students learn to think critically about ethical issues, it can help them understand other subjects better too. This is why teaching critical thinking in schools is so important.

To conclude, I believe schools should teach both how to be good members of society and academic subjects. This will help students become smart and good people who can make the world better.

(Word count: 275)

Teacher explaining ethical concepts on whiteboard

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8 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
• Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
• Demonstrates coherence and cohesion through logical organization and effective use of cohesive devices
• Provides relevant examples and justifications for arguments

Band 7 Essay:

• Addresses all parts of the task
• Presents a clear overall position
• Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with good control and flexibility
• Uses a variety of complex structures with good control
• Demonstrates logical organization with clear progression throughout
• Provides relevant ideas and examples, but could develop some points further

Band 6 Essay:

• Addresses all parts of the task, although some parts may be more fully covered than others
• Presents a relevant position, although conclusions may be unclear or repetitive
• Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some errors in word choice
• Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
• Arranges information coherently and uses basic cohesive devices
• Provides some relevant ideas and examples, but lacks depth in explanation

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Ethics (noun) – /ˈeθɪks/ – moral principles that govern a person’s behavior
2. Empathy (noun) – /ˈempəθi/ – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another
3. Civic responsibility (noun phrase) – /ˈsɪvɪk rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – the duties and obligations of citizens to their society
4. Holistic (adjective) – /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected
5. Critical thinking (noun phrase) – /ˈkrɪtɪkəl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue to form a judgment
6. Moral development (noun phrase) – /ˈmɒrəl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – the process of growing in one’s ability to distinguish right from wrong
7. Integrate (verb) – /ˈɪntɪɡreɪt/ – combine one thing with another so that they become a whole
8. Curriculum (noun) – /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – the subjects comprising a course of study in a school

Students engaged in ethical decision-making exercise

In conclusion, the topic of teaching ethics in schools is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as the balance between academic and moral education, the role of schools in shaping society, and the integration of ethics into various subjects. Remember to always address all parts of the question, provide a balanced discussion, and clearly state your own opinion.

We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.