Gun control and school safety have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms since 2019. Based on recent examination trends, this topic has appeared approximately 3-4 times annually, particularly in countries with ongoing debates about educational security measures.
Students participating in IELTS writing exam discussing school safety measures
Common Exam Question Types
Some people believe that strict gun control laws are essential for ensuring safety in schools, while others argue that other measures are more effective. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Analysis
- Topic: School safety and gun control
- Task: Discussion + opinion
- Key points to address:
- Arguments for strict gun control
- Alternative safety measures
- Personal stance with justification
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over how to protect educational institutions has intensified globally, with gun control legislation being a central point of contention. While some advocate for stringent firearm regulations, others emphasize alternative security approaches. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my viewpoint.
Proponents of strict gun control argue that limiting access to firearms is fundamental to school safety. Studies have consistently shown that countries with more restrictive gun laws experience fewer school-related violent incidents. For instance, in Australia, comprehensive gun control reforms led to a significant reduction in educational institution security threats. Moreover, strict regulations make it considerably more difficult for potentially dangerous individuals to acquire weapons that could harm students and staff.
However, others contend that alternative safety measures deserve greater attention. These include enhanced security infrastructure, mental health support systems, and comprehensive emergency response protocols. Schools implementing thorough visitor screening procedures, surveillance systems, and regular safety drills have reported improved security outcomes. Additionally, investing in counseling services helps identify and address behavioral issues before they escalate into violence.
In my opinion, while gun control is crucial, a multi-faceted approach incorporating both strict firearm regulations and alternative safety measures is most effective. This comprehensive strategy ensures multiple layers of protection while addressing the root causes of school violence. For example, combining strict gun licensing with improved mental health resources creates a more robust safety framework.
Therefore, I believe the solution lies in implementing both stringent gun control and complementary security measures, as this integrated approach offers the best protection for educational institutions.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many people discuss about how to make schools safer. Some people think strict gun control is the best way, but others think there are better methods. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support strict gun control say it can make schools safer. When it is hard to buy guns, bad people cannot easily attack schools. For example, in many countries where guns are strictly controlled, schools are safer. Also, teachers and parents feel more relaxed when they know guns are not easy to get.
On the other hand, some people think other ways are better. They say schools need good security guards, cameras, and better doors. Also, they think helping students with mental health problems is important. These things can stop problems before they become dangerous.
I think both ideas are good and we should use them together. Just stopping guns is not enough, but it is still important. Schools also need good security systems and people who can help students with problems. This way, schools can be safer for everyone.
In conclusion, I believe the best way to protect schools is to use both strict gun control and other safety measures. This will help make schools safer places for students and teachers.
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response: Clear position, fully developed arguments
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logical organization, effective paragraphing
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary usage
- Grammatical Range: Complex structures, error-free writing
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response: Clear but simple arguments
- Coherence and Cohesion: Basic organization, some repetition
- Lexical Resource: Limited vocabulary range
- Grammatical Range: Simple structures, minor errors
Key Vocabulary
- stringent (adj.) /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – very strict or severe
- comprehensive (adj.) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete; including all aspects
- infrastructure (n.) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical systems of a place
- protocols (n.) /ˈprəʊtəkɒlz/ – official procedures or systems of rules
- surveillance (n.) /sɜːˈveɪləns/ – close observation of a person or group
In conclusion, school safety and gun control remain crucial IELTS topics. For practice, consider writing about related questions such as:
- The role of technology in school security
- Balancing school safety with student privacy
- Community involvement in school safety measures
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.
