Gender equality in education has become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As a key factor in societal progress, the role of education in promoting gender equality is likely to appear more frequently in future exams. Let’s explore this theme through a real IELTS question and analyze sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
Some people think that schools should teach children academic subjects only, while others believe that schools should also teach skills for future employment. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question, while not directly mentioning gender equality, provides an excellent opportunity to discuss how education can foster gender equality through both academic subjects and employability skills. Let’s break down the question:
- Two viewpoints are presented:
- Schools should focus solely on academic subjects
- Schools should also teach employment skills
- You need to discuss both views
- You must provide your own opinion
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, incorporating the theme of gender equality in education.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In the ongoing debate about the focus of school curricula, some argue for a purely academic approach, while others advocate for the inclusion of practical skills for future employment. Both perspectives have merit, but I believe a balanced approach that incorporates both elements is crucial, especially when considering the role of education in fostering gender equality.
Those who support teaching only academic subjects argue that schools should prioritize foundational knowledge in areas such as mathematics, sciences, literature, and history. They contend that a strong academic base provides students with critical thinking skills and a broad understanding of the world, which are essential for any future career path. Furthermore, a focus on academics can help break down gender stereotypes in fields like STEM, where women are often underrepresented. By ensuring all students receive equal exposure to these subjects, schools can encourage girls to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields.
On the other hand, proponents of including employment skills in the curriculum argue that schools should prepare students for the realities of the job market. They believe that teaching practical skills like communication, teamwork, and digital literacy can help bridge the gender gap in employment opportunities. By equipping all students with these skills, regardless of gender, schools can empower both boys and girls to compete on an equal footing in the workforce. This approach can be particularly beneficial in challenging gender norms and expectations about “suitable” careers for each gender.
In my opinion, the most effective educational approach combines both academic subjects and practical skills, as this comprehensive strategy is best suited to promote gender equality. By offering a diverse curriculum that values both theoretical knowledge and real-world applications, schools can create an environment where all students, regardless of gender, can explore their interests and develop their potential. This balanced approach not only prepares students for higher education and future careers but also cultivates a mindset of equality and mutual respect.
[Word count: 309]
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphing is well-managed and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with full flexibility and precision. The language used is sophisticated and natural.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and control. Errors are rare and difficult to spot.
- Relevance to Gender Equality: The essay consistently relates the discussion to the theme of gender equality in education, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the topic.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
There is a debate about what schools should teach students. Some people think schools should only teach academic subjects, while others believe schools should also teach job skills. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
People who support teaching only academic subjects think it’s important for students to learn things like math, science, and history. They believe these subjects help students develop critical thinking skills and understand the world better. This can be good for gender equality because it gives all students, boys and girls, the same knowledge base. For example, if girls study science as much as boys, they might be more likely to choose careers in science later.
On the other hand, those who want schools to teach job skills think it’s important to prepare students for work. They say skills like communication, teamwork, and using computers are important for getting jobs. Teaching these skills to all students can help promote gender equality in the workplace. If both boys and girls learn these skills, they will have equal chances when they look for jobs.
In my opinion, I think schools should teach both academic subjects and job skills. This balanced approach can help promote gender equality by giving all students a wide range of knowledge and skills. When students learn both types of things, they can make better choices about their future and have more opportunities, regardless of their gender.
[Word count: 253]
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates competence in several areas but with some limitations:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the development of ideas is less extensive compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but cohesive devices are less sophisticated.
- Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used, but with less precision and sophistication than the higher band essay.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with generally good control, though some errors are present.
- Relevance to Gender Equality: The essay incorporates the theme of gender equality, but with less depth and nuance than the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary for IELTS Writing on Education and Gender Equality
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Foster (verb) /ˈfɒstə(r)/: To encourage or promote the development of something.
Example: Education can foster gender equality by providing equal opportunities to all students. -
Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/: The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.
Example: A well-designed curriculum can challenge gender stereotypes in education. -
Stereotype (noun) /ˈsteriətaɪp/: A widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing.
Example: Gender stereotypes in education can limit students’ career choices. -
Empowerment (noun) /ɪmˈpaʊəmənt/: The process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights.
Example: Education plays a crucial role in the empowerment of all genders. -
Inclusivity (noun) /ˌɪnkluːˈsɪvəti/: The practice or policy of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized.
Example: Schools should strive for inclusivity in all aspects of education. -
Bias (noun) /ˈbaɪəs/: Prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, or group compared with another, usually in a way considered to be unfair.
Example: Unconscious bias can affect how teachers interact with students of different genders. -
Parity (noun) /ˈpærəti/: The state or condition of being equal, especially regarding status or pay.
Example: Achieving gender parity in STEM fields remains a challenge in many countries. -
Equity (noun) /ˈekwəti/: The quality of being fair and impartial.
Example: Educational equity ensures that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed. -
Discriminate (verb) /dɪˈskrɪmɪneɪt/: Make an unjust or prejudicial distinction in the treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, sex, age, or disability.
Example: It’s crucial that educational policies do not discriminate against any gender. -
Emancipation (noun) /ɪˌmænsɪˈpeɪʃn/: The fact or process of being set free from legal, social, or political restrictions.
Example: Education can be a powerful tool for the emancipation of marginalized groups.
Conclusion
The role of education in fostering gender equality is a crucial topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. By understanding how to approach this theme from various angles, such as through academic subjects and employability skills, you can craft compelling essays that demonstrate your ability to analyze complex issues.
To practice, try writing your own essay on the following topic:
Some people believe that gender-specific education is more effective, while others argue that mixed-gender classrooms provide better learning outcomes. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and relate your points to the theme of gender equality in education. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!