Mental health in schools has become an increasingly important topic in recent years, reflecting growing awareness of its impact on students’ overall well-being and academic performance. As an IELTS Writing Task 2 examiner, I’ve observed a rising trend in questions related to this subject. Based on my analysis of past exams and current educational trends, I predict that mental health in schools will continue to be a frequent topic in future IELTS tests.
Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that schools should take responsibility for teaching students about mental health and well-being. Others think that this is not the role of schools and should be taught at home. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question asks you to discuss two contrasting views on the responsibility of teaching mental health in schools. It’s crucial to:
- Explain why some people believe schools should teach mental health
- Discuss why others think it should be taught at home
- Provide your own opinion with justification
Remember to address all parts of the question and maintain a balanced approach throughout your essay.
Sample Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Sample
Mental health education has become a topic of heated debate in recent years, with divergent views on whether schools or families should bear the primary responsibility. While both perspectives have merit, I believe that a collaborative approach between schools and homes is the most effective strategy for promoting mental well-being among students.
Proponents of school-based mental health education argue that schools are ideally positioned to reach a wide audience of young people. Schools have trained professionals and structured environments that can facilitate systematic learning about mental health issues. Moreover, integrating mental health education into the curriculum ensures that all students, regardless of their family background, have access to this vital information. This approach can help destigmatize mental health problems and encourage early intervention, potentially preventing more serious issues from developing later in life.
On the other hand, those who advocate for home-based mental health education emphasize the primary role of families in shaping children’s values and well-being. Parents and guardians are often best placed to understand their children’s unique needs and can provide more personalized support. Home-based education allows for ongoing, informal discussions about mental health, which can be more effective than formal classroom instruction. Additionally, some argue that schools are already overburdened with academic responsibilities and should not be expected to take on additional roles traditionally fulfilled by families.
In my opinion, the most effective approach to mental health education involves a partnership between schools and families. Schools can provide a foundational understanding of mental health concepts, coping strategies, and available resources. This knowledge can then be reinforced and contextualized within the family environment. By working together, schools and families can create a comprehensive support system that addresses the diverse needs of students and promotes overall mental well-being.
school-and-family-support|School and Family Support|A student is receiving support and guidance from both a teacher and their parents, representing the collaborative approach between schools and families in fostering mental well-being.
In conclusion, while the debate about the primary responsibility for mental health education continues, a collaborative approach that leverages the strengths of both schools and families is likely to yield the best outcomes for students’ mental health and well-being.
(Word count: 309)
Band 7 Essay Sample
The question of who should be responsible for teaching students about mental health and well-being has become a topic of debate. While some believe schools should take on this role, others argue it should be taught at home. In my opinion, both schools and families have important parts to play in educating young people about mental health.
Those who support school-based mental health education argue that schools have the resources and expertise to deliver this information effectively. Teachers and school counselors can be trained to provide accurate information and identify students who may need additional support. Moreover, incorporating mental health education into the curriculum ensures that all students receive this vital knowledge, regardless of their home environment. This approach can help reduce stigma and promote early intervention for mental health issues.
On the other hand, proponents of home-based mental health education emphasize the crucial role of families in shaping children’s attitudes and behaviors. Parents and guardians can provide personalized guidance and support tailored to their child’s specific needs. Home-based education allows for ongoing conversations about mental health, which can be more effective than formal lessons. Additionally, some argue that schools are already overburdened with academic responsibilities and should not be expected to take on additional roles.
In my view, the most effective approach to mental health education involves collaboration between schools and families. Schools can provide a foundation of knowledge about mental health concepts and coping strategies, while families can reinforce these lessons and provide individualized support. This combined approach ensures that students receive comprehensive education about mental health from multiple trusted sources.
To conclude, while there are valid arguments for both school-based and home-based mental health education, I believe that a collaborative effort between schools and families is the most beneficial approach for students’ mental well-being.
(Word count: 288)
Band 6 Essay Sample
Mental health education is an important topic today. Some people think schools should teach it, while others believe it should be taught at home. Both sides have good points, but I think it’s best if schools and families work together on this.
People who want schools to teach mental health say that schools have trained teachers who can give good information. Schools can reach all students and make sure everyone learns about mental health. This can help students understand mental health problems better and know when to ask for help. Also, if schools teach about mental health, it might make it easier for students to talk about these issues.
On the other hand, people who think mental health should be taught at home say that parents know their children best. Families can talk about mental health in a more personal way and give support that fits each child. They can also have many conversations about mental health over time, which might be better than just learning about it in class. Some people also say that schools already have too much to teach and shouldn’t have to do more.
I think the best way is for schools and families to work together. Schools can teach the basic facts about mental health and how to deal with problems. Then families can talk more about these things at home and give extra help if needed. This way, students learn about mental health from different people they trust.
In conclusion, while some people think schools should teach mental health and others think it should be taught at home, I believe that both schools and families should work together to help students understand and take care of their mental health.
(Word count: 275)
Explaining the Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Explanation
This essay demonstrates excellent task achievement, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy:
- Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy.
Band 7 Essay Explanation
This essay shows good control across all four marking criteria:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, although some aspects are more fully developed than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are organized logically, with clear overall progression.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used appropriately, with some evidence of style and collocation.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A variety of complex structures is used with good control, though there may be a few errors.
Band 6 Essay Explanation
This essay demonstrates generally effective control of the language, but with some limitations:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses the task, but some points may be inadequately developed or unclear.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally arranged coherently, but there may be a lack of overall progression.
- Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task, but usage may be somewhat limited or repetitive.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex structures is used, but errors may occur when attempting more complex sentences.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Mental well-being (noun) /ˈmen.təl wel-ˈbiːɪŋ/: The state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy mentally.
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Destigmatize (verb) /diːˈstɪɡ.mə.taɪz/: To remove the negative associations or stigma attached to something.
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Early intervention (noun) /ˈɜː.li ˌɪn.təˈven.ʃən/: Action taken to prevent problems at an early stage.
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Collaborative approach (noun) /kəˈlæb.ər.ə.tɪv əˈprəʊtʃ/: A way of working where two or more parties work together.
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Personalized support (noun) /ˈpɜː.sən.əl.aɪzd səˈpɔːt/: Assistance tailored to an individual’s specific needs.
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Coping strategies (noun) /ˈkəʊ.pɪŋ ˈstræt.ə.dʒiz/: Methods used to deal with stressful situations.
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Comprehensive support system (noun) /ˌkɒm.prɪˈhen.sɪv səˈpɔːt ˈsɪs.təm/: A complete network of assistance and resources.
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Ongoing conversations (noun) /ˈɒŋ.ɡəʊ.ɪŋ ˌkɒn.vəˈseɪ.ʃənz/: Continuous discussions over time.
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Reinforce (verb) /ˌriː.ɪnˈfɔːs/: To strengthen or support an idea or feeling.
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Contextualize (verb) /kənˈteks.tʃu.ə.laɪz/: To consider something in relation to the situation in which it happens or exists.
Conclusion
Mental health in schools is a crucial topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. By studying these sample essays and understanding the criteria for different band scores, you can improve your ability to write strong, well-structured responses on this subject.
To further enhance your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:
- The impact of social media on students’ mental health
- The role of physical education in promoting mental well-being
- Strategies for reducing academic stress in schools
Remember to practice regularly and focus on improving all aspects of your writing, including task achievement, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners.
For more insights on supporting mental health in schools, check out our article on best ways to support mental health in schools.