The topic of teaching self-control to children is a crucial one in modern society and has been featured in IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts several times in recent years. Based on past exam trends and current societal concerns, it’s likely that this theme will continue to appear in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a relevant question and provide sample essays to help you prepare effectively.

Analyzing the Question

Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:

Some people believe that teaching children self-control is the most important factor in their development. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

This question asks for your opinion on the importance of teaching self-control to children. It’s an agree/disagree essay, which means you need to clearly state your position and support it with relevant arguments and examples.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Self-control is undeniably a crucial skill for children to develop, but I disagree that it is the single most important factor in their development. While it plays a significant role, other aspects such as emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and creativity are equally vital for a child’s holistic growth.

Teaching self-control to children certainly has numerous benefits. Firstly, it helps children manage their impulses and emotions, leading to better decision-making and reduced conflicts with peers and adults. For instance, a child with good self-control is more likely to complete homework before indulging in playtime, setting a foundation for future academic success. Secondly, self-control is closely linked to delayed gratification, a skill associated with better life outcomes in areas such as education, career, and personal relationships. The famous “marshmallow experiment” conducted by psychologist Walter Mischel demonstrated that children who could resist immediate rewards for greater future benefits tended to have more successful lives as adults.

However, focusing solely on self-control may neglect other crucial aspects of child development. Emotional intelligence, for example, is equally important as it enables children to understand and manage their own emotions while empathizing with others. This skill is fundamental for building strong relationships and navigating social situations effectively. Additionally, critical thinking skills are essential in today’s information-rich world, allowing children to analyze, evaluate, and form independent opinions. Lastly, creativity should not be underestimated, as it fosters innovation, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability – qualities that are increasingly valued in the modern workforce.

In conclusion, while teaching self-control is undoubtedly important, it should be part of a balanced approach to child development. A well-rounded education that nurtures self-control alongside emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and creativity is more likely to produce resilient, adaptable, and successful individuals capable of thriving in our complex world.

(Word count: 298)

Children learning self-control

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Self-control is an important skill for children to learn, but I don’t think it’s the most important factor in their development. There are other things that are just as important for children to learn as they grow up.

Teaching self-control to children has some clear benefits. First, it helps kids control their emotions and behavior better. For example, a child with good self-control might be able to wait for their turn on the playground instead of pushing other kids out of the way. This can help them make friends more easily. Second, self-control can help children do better in school. If a child can focus on their homework instead of watching TV, they’re more likely to get good grades.

However, there are other skills that are just as important for children to learn. Being kind to others and understanding how people feel are really important too. These skills help children make friends and get along with people, which is necessary for a happy life. Also, learning how to think critically and solve problems is crucial in today’s world. Children need to know how to find information and make good decisions. Finally, being creative is also important because it helps children come up with new ideas and solve problems in different ways.

In conclusion, while teaching self-control is important, it shouldn’t be the only thing we focus on when helping children develop. We should try to teach children a mix of different skills, including self-control, kindness, critical thinking, and creativity. This will help them become well-rounded adults who can handle different situations in life.

(Word count: 267)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Essay Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The higher band essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced thesis statement.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and collocations (e.g., “holistic growth”, “delayed gratification”, “resilient, adaptable, and successful individuals”). The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures (e.g., “While it plays a significant role, other aspects…”). The Band 6-7 essay uses mostly simple and compound sentences.

4. Task Response: Both essays address the question directly, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more balanced argument.

5. Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated linking words and phrases, creating a smoother flow between ideas.

Essential Vocabulary for This Topic

1. Self-control (noun) /ˌself kənˈtrəʊl/ – the ability to control your emotions and actions
2. Impulse (noun) /ˈɪmpʌls/ – a sudden strong desire to do something
3. Delayed gratification (noun phrase) /dɪˈleɪd ˌɡrætɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ – the ability to wait for a better reward in the future
4. Emotional intelligence (noun phrase) /ɪˈməʊʃənl ɪnˈtelɪdʒəns/ – the ability to understand and manage emotions
5. Critical thinking (noun phrase) /ˈkrɪtɪkl ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ – the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue
6. Resilient (adjective) /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – able to recover quickly from difficulties
7. Holistic (adjective) /həˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected
8. Nurture (verb) /ˈnɜːtʃə(r)/ – to care for and encourage the growth or development of something

In conclusion, the topic of teaching self-control to children is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. While we’ve explored one specific question, you might encounter variations such as discussing the balance between self-control and self-expression, or comparing the importance of self-control to other life skills. To further improve your writing skills, try crafting your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you apply the vocabulary and structures we’ve discussed, preparing you for success in your IELTS Writing Task 2.