Teaching respect and kindness is a crucial topic in today’s educational landscape. This theme has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions over the years, and its relevance continues to grow. Based on past trends and the increasing emphasis on social-emotional learning, we can expect to see more questions related to this topic in future IELTS exams.
Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question that touches on this important subject:
Some people believe that schools should focus on teaching academic subjects, while others think that teaching respect and kindness is equally important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question presents two contrasting views on education:
- Schools should prioritize academic subjects
- Teaching respect and kindness is as important as academic subjects
The task requires you to:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Provide your personal opinion
- Support your arguments with reasons and examples
Now, let’s look at two sample essays addressing this question, one aimed at a Band 8-9 score and another for a Band 6-7 score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In the ongoing debate about educational priorities, some argue that schools should focus solely on academic subjects, while others contend that teaching respect and kindness is equally crucial. In my opinion, a balanced approach that incorporates both academic and social-emotional learning is essential for students’ holistic development.
Those who advocate for a purely academic focus argue that schools’ primary purpose is to equip students with knowledge and skills necessary for their future careers. They believe that subjects like mathematics, sciences, and languages are fundamental to students’ success in an increasingly competitive global economy. Additionally, proponents of this view often cite standardized test scores and international rankings as indicators of educational quality, emphasizing the need for rigorous academic training.
On the other hand, supporters of teaching respect and kindness argue that these values are fundamental to creating a harmonious society and nurturing well-rounded individuals. They contend that academic knowledge alone is insufficient if students lack the emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills to navigate complex social situations. Moreover, fostering a respectful and kind environment in schools can lead to reduced bullying, improved mental health, and better academic performance as students feel more supported and valued.
Respect and kindness in classroom
In my view, a balanced approach that integrates both academic subjects and social-emotional learning is ideal. Schools should strive to create an environment where academic excellence and character development go hand in hand. By teaching respect and kindness alongside traditional subjects, we can nurture individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also empathetic and socially responsible. This approach can be implemented through various means, such as incorporating ethical discussions into literature classes, promoting teamwork in science projects, or implementing peer mentoring programs.
In conclusion, while academic subjects are undoubtedly important, teaching respect and kindness is equally vital for students’ overall development. By adopting a holistic approach to education, schools can prepare students not just for successful careers, but for meaningful and fulfilling lives as responsible members of society.
(Word count: 345)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
There is a debate about what schools should focus on teaching. Some people think academic subjects are the most important, while others believe teaching respect and kindness is just as important. I think both are necessary for a good education.
Those who support focusing on academic subjects say that schools should prepare students for their future jobs. They think subjects like math, science, and languages are very important for success in the modern world. They also believe that good test scores show that a school is doing well.
On the other hand, people who want schools to teach respect and kindness say these values are important for society. They think that being smart is not enough if students don’t know how to be kind to others. They argue that teaching respect and kindness can help reduce bullying and make students happier at school.
I believe that schools should teach both academic subjects and values like respect and kindness. Students need to learn academic skills, but they also need to learn how to be good people. Schools can do this by including lessons about respect and kindness in their regular classes. For example, they could talk about being kind to others during English lessons or teach teamwork during science experiments.
In conclusion, I think schools should focus on both academic subjects and teaching respect and kindness. This will help students become smart and successful, but also kind and respectful to others. This approach will prepare them better for their future lives and careers.
(Word count: 253)
Writing Tips for This Topic
When writing about the importance of teaching respect and kindness in IELTS Task 2, consider the following:
For Band 8-9:
- Use sophisticated vocabulary related to education and social-emotional learning
- Provide nuanced arguments that consider multiple perspectives
- Use complex sentence structures and advanced linking words
- Offer specific examples to support your points
For Band 6-7:
- Use clear, straightforward language to express your ideas
- Provide a balanced discussion of both viewpoints
- Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
- Include some examples, even if they are more general
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Holistic development (noun phrase) – /həʊˈlɪstɪk dɪˈveləpmənt/ – The development of a person’s intellectual, emotional, social, physical, artistic, creative and spiritual potentials.
Social-emotional learning (noun phrase) – /ˈsəʊʃəl ɪˈməʊʃənl ˈlɜːnɪŋ/ – The process of developing self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills that are vital for school, work, and life success.
Interpersonal skills (noun phrase) – /ˌɪntəˈpɜːsnl skɪlz/ – The abilities used to communicate and interact with others effectively.
Empathetic (adjective) – /empəˈθetɪk/ – Having the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
Rigorous (adjective) – /ˈrɪɡərəs/ – Extremely thorough, exhaustive, or accurate.
Harmonious (adjective) – /hɑːˈməʊniəs/ – Free from disagreement or dissent; peacefully coexisting.
Well-rounded (adjective) – /ˌwel ˈraʊndɪd/ – Having a personality that is fully developed in all aspects.
In conclusion, the topic of teaching respect and kindness in schools is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar topics that explore the balance between academic and social-emotional learning in education. Some potential future questions might include:
- Do you think schools should implement specific programs to teach empathy and kindness?
- How can academic curricula be designed to incorporate lessons on respect and social responsibility?
- What role should parents play in teaching respect and kindness compared to schools?
We encourage you to practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below. This active practice will help you refine your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.