The topic of later start times for schools has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on recent trends and analysis of past exams, it’s likely to appear more frequently in future tests. This issue resonates with many test-takers, especially those from countries like India, China, and Vietnam, where academic pressures are high and sleep deprivation among students is a growing concern.
Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that schools should start later in the morning so that students can get enough sleep. Do you think this is a good idea? What are the advantages and disadvantages of starting school later?
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to discuss the pros and cons of later school start times and express your opinion on the matter. It’s a two-part question, so you need to:
- State whether you think starting school later is a good idea
- Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this change
Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores to see how this question can be approached effectively.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, there has been a growing debate about the merits of delaying school start times to allow students more sleep. While this proposal has both advantages and disadvantages, I believe it is ultimately a beneficial idea that could significantly improve students’ well-being and academic performance.
The primary advantage of later school start times is the potential for improved student health and cognitive function. Research has consistently shown that adolescents naturally have a delayed sleep-wake cycle, making it difficult for them to fall asleep early and wake up early. By aligning school schedules with students’ biological clocks, we can ensure they get the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep per night. This increased rest can lead to better concentration, enhanced memory retention, and reduced risk of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
Furthermore, starting school later could result in improved academic performance. Well-rested students are more likely to be alert and engaged in class, leading to better comprehension and participation. This could potentially raise test scores and overall academic achievement, benefiting both individual students and the education system as a whole.
However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. A later start time would likely mean a later end time, which could interfere with after-school activities, part-time jobs, and family responsibilities. This change might also create logistical challenges for parents who need to get to work early, potentially increasing the need for before-school childcare arrangements.
Additionally, a shift in school hours could have broader societal impacts. Traffic patterns might change, affecting commute times for workers in other sectors. Sports schedules and other extracurricular activities would need to be adjusted, potentially causing conflicts with community resources and facilities.
Despite these challenges, I believe the benefits of later school start times outweigh the drawbacks. The potential improvements in student health, well-being, and academic performance are significant enough to warrant serious consideration of this change. With careful planning and community cooperation, many of the logistical issues could be addressed.
In conclusion, while implementing later school start times would require some adjustments, it represents a promising approach to better aligning our education system with students’ biological needs. By prioritizing students’ sleep and overall well-being, we can create a more effective and supportive learning environment that sets them up for long-term success.
(Word count: 378)
Later school start times improve student wellbeing and academic performance
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
- Clear position: The writer clearly states their opinion in the introduction and conclusion.
- Comprehensive answer: Both parts of the question are fully addressed.
- Logical structure: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphs for advantages, disadvantages, and the writer’s opinion.
- Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow smoothly with appropriate use of linking words and phrases.
- Lexical resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and effectively.
- Grammatical range and accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used correctly throughout.
- Task achievement: All aspects of the task are covered with well-developed ideas and relevant examples.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
There is a debate about whether schools should start later in the morning to help students get more sleep. In my opinion, this is a good idea because it can help students perform better in school, but it also has some problems that need to be considered.
One big advantage of starting school later is that students can get more sleep. Many teenagers have trouble falling asleep early at night, so they don’t get enough rest when they have to wake up early for school. If school starts later, they can sleep longer and be more awake and ready to learn in class. This could help them get better grades and feel happier at school.
Another good thing about later start times is that it might make roads safer. When students are driving to school early in the morning, they might be tired and not as careful. If they can sleep more and drive later when they’re more awake, there might be fewer accidents.
However, there are also some disadvantages to starting school later. One problem is that it could make it hard for parents who have to go to work early. They might need to find someone to watch their children in the morning or change their work schedule. This could be difficult and expensive for some families.
Another issue is that ending school later in the day might affect after-school activities. Sports teams and clubs might have to change their schedules, and some students might not be able to have part-time jobs in the afternoon. This could be a problem for students who need to work or want to do other activities after school.
In conclusion, I think starting school later has more advantages than disadvantages. The benefits for students’ health and learning are very important. However, schools and communities would need to work together to solve the problems that come with changing school times. If they can do this, starting school later could be a good way to help students do better in school and be healthier.
(Word count: 332)
Students struggling to stay awake in early morning classes
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:
- Position is clear: The writer’s opinion is stated in the introduction and conclusion.
- Addresses all parts of the task: Both advantages and disadvantages are discussed.
- Paragraphing: Ideas are organized into separate paragraphs, though they could be more fully developed.
- Cohesion: Basic linking words are used, but there’s room for more sophisticated connections.
- Vocabulary: A mix of common and some less common vocabulary is used, with occasional errors.
- Grammar: Sentences are generally well-formed with some variety, but lack the complexity of higher band scores.
- Task achievement: The main points are covered, but some ideas could be elaborated further.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Sleep deprivation (noun) – /sliːp ˌdeprɪˈveɪʃn/ – The condition of not having enough sleep
- Cognitive function (noun phrase) – /ˈkɒɡnətɪv ˈfʌŋkʃn/ – Mental processes including thinking, learning, and memory
- Adolescents (noun) – /ˌædəˈlesənts/ – Young people who are developing into adults
- Circadian rhythm (noun phrase) – /sɜːˈkeɪdiən ˌrɪðəm/ – The natural internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle
- Academic performance (noun phrase) – /ˌækəˈdemɪk pəˈfɔːməns/ – How well a student meets standards set by educational institutions
- Logistical challenges (noun phrase) – /ləˈdʒɪstɪkl ˈtʃælɪndʒɪz/ – Practical difficulties in organizing something complex
- Extracurricular activities (noun phrase) – /ˌekstrəkəˈrɪkjələr ækˈtɪvətiz/ – Activities pursued in addition to the normal course of study
- Well-being (noun) – /ˌwel ˈbiːɪŋ/ – The state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy
Conclusion
The topic of later school start times is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The impact of sleep on student performance
- Balancing academic demands with student health
- Restructuring school schedules for optimal learning
Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments for feedback and discussion.
