Sex education in schools has consistently appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations over the past decade, particularly in questions about education systems and social development. Based on analysis of past papers, this topic has appeared approximately 15-20 times since 2015, making it a high-frequency subject that candidates should prepare for.
Students participating in sex education class discussion
Analyzing the Task Question
Some people believe that sex education should be mandatory in schools. Others think it should be the responsibility of parents. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This is a discussion essay requiring candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on sex education
- Present arguments for school-based and parent-led sex education
- Provide a clear personal stance
- Support ideas with relevant examples
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Sexual education has become a contentious topic in many societies, with debate over whether it belongs in the classroom or should remain within family discussions. While both institutions play vital roles in a child’s development, I firmly believe that schools should be mandated to provide comprehensive sex education.
Those who advocate for parental responsibility argue that parents better understand their children’s maturity levels and can tailor discussions accordingly. They can also ensure that sex education aligns with their family’s cultural and religious values. For instance, in conservative Asian societies, many parents prefer to address these sensitive topics within the privacy of their homes, incorporating traditional values and beliefs.
However, school-based sex education offers several crucial advantages. Firstly, it ensures standardized, scientifically accurate information reaches all students, regardless of their parents’ knowledge or comfort level with the subject. Professional educators can deliver content systematically, covering essential topics like reproductive health, sexually transmitted diseases, and consent. Moreover, classroom discussions allow students to learn from peers’ questions and perspectives, creating a more comprehensive learning environment.
Furthermore, mandatory school-based programs help protect vulnerable youth whose parents might avoid or inadequately address these topics. Research from developed nations demonstrates that comprehensive sex education correlates with lower teenage pregnancy rates and better sexual health outcomes. For example, countries like the Netherlands, which implement robust school-based sex education, consistently report lower rates of teenage pregnancies compared to nations without such programs.
In conclusion, while parents should certainly participate in their children’s sexual education, schools must take primary responsibility through mandatory programs. This approach ensures universal access to accurate information and better equips young people to make informed decisions about their sexual health.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Sex education is important topic that many people discuss about nowadays. Some think schools must teach it, others say parents should do it. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support parents teaching sex education have some good points. Parents know their children very well and can explain things in way children understand. Also, in many countries like India and China, talking about sex is private family matter. Parents can teach according to their culture and religion.
However, I think schools should teach sex education for several reasons. First, teachers have proper training and knowledge to teach this subject. They can explain scientific facts better than most parents. Second, many parents feel shy or don’t know enough to teach their children about sex. In my country, many parents never talk about this topic with children.
When schools teach sex education, all students get same information. They learn about important things like preventing pregnancy and staying healthy. For example, in my friend’s school, they learned about diseases and how to stay safe. This helped students understand serious things that parents might not explain.
In conclusion, I believe schools should definitely teach sex education to all students. While parents can help, schools can do better job with proper teaching methods and complete information.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis:
- Task Response (9.0): Thoroughly addresses all parts with clear position
- Coherence & Cohesion (8.5): Logical organization with effective paragraphing
- Lexical Resource (8.5): Sophisticated vocabulary with natural usage
- Grammar (8.5): Complex structures with high accuracy
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis:
- Task Response (6.5): Addresses main points but less developed
- Coherence & Cohesion (6.5): Basic organization with some cohesive devices
- Lexical Resource (6.5): Adequate vocabulary with some errors
- Grammar (6.5): Mix of simple and complex structures with errors
Key Vocabulary
- contentious (adj) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete and thorough
- vulnerable (adj) /ˈvʌlnərəbl/ – susceptible to harm
- standardized (adj) /ˈstændədaɪzd/ – made uniform or consistent
- reproductive health (n) /ˌriːprəˈdʌktɪv helθ/ – health matters related to reproduction
- robust (adj) /rəˈbʌst/ – strong and effective
- mandatory (adj) /ˈmændətəri/ – required by law or rules
- correlate (v) /ˈkɒrəleɪt/ – have a mutual relationship
Conclusion
This topic remains highly relevant for IELTS candidates. Similar questions might focus on:
- Age-appropriate sex education content
- Cultural sensitivity in sex education
- Role of technology in sex education
- Impact on teenage behavior and health
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share in the comments for feedback!
