Environmental awareness has become a critical issue in recent years, and the role of education in promoting this awareness is increasingly important. This topic has appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions multiple times, with varying frequencies. Based on past trends and current global concerns, we can expect this theme to continue appearing in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this potential topic.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people believe that schools should focus solely on academic subjects, while others argue that environmental education should be a mandatory part of the curriculum. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question addresses the role of education in promoting environmental awareness by asking candidates to consider whether environmental education should be included in school curricula. It requires a balanced discussion of both viewpoints and a clear personal stance.
Model Essay for Band 8-9
Environmental education has become a topic of heated debate in recent years, with some advocating for its inclusion in school curricula while others argue for a focus on traditional academic subjects. This essay will examine both perspectives and argue that environmental education should indeed be a mandatory part of schooling.
Those who believe schools should concentrate solely on academic subjects often argue that the primary purpose of education is to prepare students for future careers and higher education. They contend that subjects like mathematics, science, and languages are essential for academic and professional success, and that adding environmental education to an already packed curriculum could detract from these core subjects. Furthermore, they might argue that environmental awareness can be gained through other channels, such as media or extracurricular activities.
On the other hand, proponents of including environmental education in schools argue that it is crucial for fostering responsible citizenship and ensuring a sustainable future. They believe that by integrating environmental topics into the curriculum, students can develop a deeper understanding of ecological issues and their impact on society. This knowledge can lead to more environmentally conscious behaviors and decisions in their personal and professional lives. Moreover, environmental education can enhance critical thinking skills and provide real-world applications for scientific concepts, thereby complementing traditional academic subjects.
In my opinion, environmental education should be a mandatory part of the school curriculum. The pressing nature of environmental challenges, such as climate change and biodiversity loss, necessitates a population that is well-informed and capable of making sustainable choices. By incorporating environmental topics into various subjects, schools can create a holistic learning experience that prepares students not only for academic and career success but also for responsible global citizenship.
Furthermore, environmental education can serve as a bridge between academic subjects, demonstrating the interconnectedness of various fields of study. For instance, studying the impact of pollution on ecosystems can involve elements of biology, chemistry, geography, and even economics. This interdisciplinary approach can enhance students’ overall understanding and retention of academic concepts.
In conclusion, while the importance of core academic subjects cannot be understated, the inclusion of environmental education in school curricula is essential for creating a well-rounded, environmentally conscious generation. By balancing traditional subjects with environmental learning, schools can better equip students to face the challenges of the 21st century and beyond.
(Word count: 372)
Model Essay for Band 6-7
Environmental education is a topic that has sparked debate in recent years. Some people think schools should only teach academic subjects, while others believe environmental education should be required. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support focusing on academic subjects argue that schools should prepare students for jobs and university. They think subjects like math, science, and languages are the most important for success. They worry that adding environmental education might take time away from these important subjects. They also think students can learn about the environment from TV or other activities outside school.
On the other hand, people who want environmental education in schools say it’s important for creating responsible citizens. They believe that learning about the environment helps students understand important issues that affect our world. This knowledge can help students make better choices to protect the environment. They also think environmental education can help students understand science better by showing how it applies to real problems.
In my opinion, I think environmental education should be part of school lessons. Environmental problems like climate change are very serious, so we need people who understand these issues. By teaching about the environment in school, we can help students learn to make good choices for the planet.
Also, environmental education can help students see how different subjects are connected. For example, studying pollution involves science, geography, and even math. This can make learning more interesting and help students remember what they learn better.
To conclude, while academic subjects are very important, I believe environmental education should also be taught in schools. This will help create students who are ready for both their careers and the challenges our world faces.
(Word count: 292)
Key Writing Tips
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. This organization is crucial for achieving higher band scores.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and expressions, such as “fostering responsible citizenship” and “interdisciplinary approach”. The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the Band 8-9 essay does so more effectively and with greater variety.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more developed arguments and a clearer personal stance.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures with fewer errors compared to the Band 6-7 essay.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
- Environmental awareness (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl əˈweənəs/ – knowledge and understanding of environmental issues
- Curriculum (noun) /kəˈrɪkjələm/ – the subjects comprising a course of study in a school
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
- Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
- Interdisciplinary (adjective) /ˌɪntədɪsəˈplɪnəri/ – involving two or more academic disciplines
- Holistic (adjective) /həˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected
- Fostering (verb) /ˈfɒstərɪŋ/ – encouraging the development of something
- Conscious (adjective) /ˈkɒnʃəs/ – aware of and responding to one’s surroundings
- Pressing (adjective) /ˈpresɪŋ/ – urgent; requiring immediate attention
Conclusion
The role of education in promoting environmental awareness is a crucial topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. By understanding the key arguments and practicing with sample essays like those provided, you can improve your ability to address this subject effectively. Remember to use appropriate vocabulary, maintain a clear structure, and provide well-developed arguments to achieve a higher band score.
To further enhance your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic or related themes such as:
- The impact of environmental education on children’s behavior
- The role of schools in combating climate change
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection in education
We encourage you to practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.
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